BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps: Prepare to revolutionize your lunch game with a flavor explosion that’s both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly simple! Forget boring sandwiches; we’re talking about juicy, tangy BBQ chicken mingling with crisp, creamy coleslaw, all nestled in a soft, pliable wrap. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience.

While the exact origins of combining BBQ chicken and coleslaw are a bit hazy, the pairing has become a beloved staple across the American South. Think of it as a delicious marriage of two iconic Southern flavors: the smoky sweetness of barbecue and the refreshing crunch of coleslaw. It’s a culinary match made in heaven!

What makes these BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The tender, shredded chicken, coated in a rich BBQ sauce, provides a savory foundation. Then comes the coleslaw – cool, creamy, and crunchy, offering a delightful contrast. People adore this dish because it’s quick to assemble, endlessly customizable, and utterly delicious. Whether you’re packing a lunch for work, planning a picnic, or simply craving a flavorful and easy meal, these wraps are guaranteed to hit the spot. Get ready to discover your new favorite way to enjoy BBQ chicken!

Ingredients:

• For the BBQ Chicken:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (I prefer a smoky, slightly sweet one!)
• For the Coleslaw:
• 1/2 head green cabbage, shredded
• 1/4 head red cabbage, shredded
• 1 large carrot, shredded
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Wraps:
• 6 large flour tortillas (10-12 inch)
• Optional toppings: sliced avocado, chopped red onion, extra BBQ sauce

Preparing the BBQ Chicken:

1. Prep the Chicken: First things first, let’s get that chicken ready! Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Then, cut them into bite-sized pieces – about 1-inch cubes is perfect.
2. Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the cubed chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is coated evenly with those delicious spices!
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This is crucial for food safety!
4. Add the BBQ Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and pour in your favorite BBQ sauce. Stir to coat the chicken completely. Let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together beautifully. This step is where the magic happens! The chicken will become incredibly flavorful and tender.
5. Shred the Chicken (Optional): If you prefer shredded chicken in your wraps, you can use two forks to gently shred the chicken while it’s simmering in the BBQ sauce. This creates a more pulled-pork-like texture, which is also fantastic!

Making the Coleslaw:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, shredded red cabbage, and shredded carrot. You can buy pre-shredded coleslaw mix to save time, but I find that freshly shredded vegetables have a better texture and flavor.
2. Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. I like my coleslaw slightly tangy and sweet, so I usually add a little extra apple cider vinegar and honey.
3. Combine the Coleslaw: Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables and toss well to combine. Make sure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Chill the Coleslaw: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or even better, for an hour or two. This allows the flavors to meld together and the coleslaw to become even more delicious. Chilling also helps the coleslaw to crisp up a bit.

Assembling the BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps:

1. Warm the Tortillas: Gently warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, or until they are pliable. You can also warm them in the microwave for a few seconds. Warming the tortillas makes them easier to roll and prevents them from cracking.
2. Assemble the Wraps: Lay a warmed tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of BBQ chicken onto the center of the tortilla.
3. Add the Coleslaw: Top the BBQ chicken with a generous scoop of the chilled coleslaw. Don’t be shy! The coleslaw adds a wonderful crunch and tanginess that complements the BBQ chicken perfectly.
4. Add Optional Toppings: If desired, add sliced avocado, chopped red onion, or an extra drizzle of BBQ sauce. These toppings add extra flavor and texture to the wraps.
5. Wrap it Up: Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then tightly roll it up from the bottom. Secure the wrap with a toothpick if needed.
6. Serve Immediately: Serve the BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps immediately. They are best enjoyed fresh, while the tortillas are still warm and the coleslaw is still crisp.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it Up: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the BBQ sauce or use a spicy BBQ sauce. You can also add some chopped jalapeños to the coleslaw.
• Add Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese would be a delicious addition to these wraps.
• Use Different Protein: If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can use pulled pork, shredded beef, or even grilled tofu in these wraps.
• Make it Vegetarian: Use grilled halloumi cheese or black beans instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
• Low-Carb Option: Use large lettuce leaves instead of tortillas for a low-carb option.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the BBQ chicken and coleslaw ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the wraps just before serving.
• Coleslaw Variations: Feel free to experiment with different coleslaw ingredients. You can add chopped apples, grapes, or pecans for extra flavor and texture. You can also use a different type of dressing, such as a vinaigrette or a creamy poppy seed dressing.

Enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps! They’re perfect for a quick and easy lunch, dinner, or picnic.

Conclusion:

This BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wrap recipe isn’t just another lunch option; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The combination of smoky, tangy barbecue chicken with the cool, crisp coleslaw is a match made in culinary heaven. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even a light and refreshing summer dinner. Seriously, you need this in your life!

But what truly makes these wraps a must-try is their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of barbecue sauce to find your perfect level of sweetness and spice. A Carolina-style vinegar-based sauce will add a zesty kick, while a Kansas City-style sauce will bring a rich, molasses-y depth. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

For a heartier meal, try using larger tortillas or even pita bread. You could also add some crumbled bacon or crispy fried onions for extra texture and flavor. If you’re watching your carb intake, these fillings are fantastic served over a bed of lettuce as a salad. And for a vegetarian option, simply substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or black beans tossed in barbecue sauce. The possibilities are truly endless!

Consider adding some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness. A squeeze of lime juice can also brighten up the flavors. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of chili flakes for a touch of heat.

These wraps are also incredibly portable, making them ideal for picnics, road trips, or lunchboxes. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil to keep them fresh.

Why You Should Make These BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps:

I know there are a million recipes out there, but I truly believe this one is special. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy, and it’s so easy to customize to your own taste. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover barbecue chicken!

Don’t just take my word for it – try it yourself!

I’m confident that you’ll love these BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps as much as I do. They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and they’re sure to become a regular part of your meal rotation.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill (or grab some pre-cooked chicken), and get ready to experience a taste sensation. I can’t wait to hear what you think!

Share Your Experience!

Once you’ve tried this recipe, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What kind of barbecue sauce did you use? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and comments in the comments section below. Let’s create a community of BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wrap enthusiasts! Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create delicious and easy-to-follow recipes. Happy cooking!

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