There’s something magical about recipes that are simple to make yet bursting with flavor. BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are one of those meals that check every box—they’re quick, versatile, and crowd-pleasing. Perfect for weeknight dinners, backyard cookouts, or even as a hearty lunch, these wraps combine smoky barbecue chicken with cool, crunchy coleslaw for a balance of textures that never disappoints.

I first made these on a sunny afternoon when I had leftover grilled chicken and a big head of cabbage waiting in my fridge. With a little improvisation, I tossed together a tangy slaw, wrapped it in soft tortillas with saucy chicken, and discovered a recipe that has since become a go-to favorite. The best part? Everyone loved it so much that I had no leftovers to store!

Whether you prefer your wraps with extra spice, a touch of creamy avocado, or a sprinkle of cheese, this recipe gives you the freedom to customize. It’s an easy way to turn simple ingredients into a dish that feels special every time.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Before getting started, gather all your ingredients. Using fresh produce and good-quality BBQ sauce will make these wraps shine.

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works beautifully)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought, whichever you love most)
• 4 large tortillas (flour or corn)
• 2 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
• 1 cup grated carrots
• ½ cup mayonnaise (Greek yogurt also works for a lighter version)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ons

• 1 cup diced bell peppers
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• Avocado slices
• Shredded cheese (cheddar or feta are both delicious)

💡 Tip: Farmers’ markets are great places to find crisp, vibrant vegetables that will make your wraps extra fresh and flavorful.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the BBQ Chicken

• If you’re using cooked chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces.
• Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil, and toss in the chicken.
• Stir in BBQ sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes so the chicken soaks up all that smoky flavor.

👉 Cooking tip: Always check your chicken with a meat thermometer—165°F ensures it’s cooked perfectly.

2. Mix the Coleslaw

• In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage and grated carrots.
• In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
• Pour the dressing over the veggies and toss well until evenly coated.

For an extra kick, mix in bell peppers, a dash of hot sauce, or even toasted seeds for crunch.

3. Assemble the Wraps

• Warm tortillas for 30 seconds on each side in a dry skillet (this keeps them pliable).
• Add a layer of BBQ chicken to the center, then top with a generous scoop of coleslaw.
• Fold in the sides and roll tightly from the bottom up. Slice diagonally for easy serving.

👉 Pro tip: If making ahead, wrap tightly in parchment or foil to keep them fresh.

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Equipment You’ll Need

• Skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or fork
• Cutting board & sharp knife
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Serving platter

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Delicious Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Stir chipotle or jalapeños into the BBQ sauce.
• Asian Twist: Use teriyaki sauce instead of BBQ and add sesame oil to the slaw.
• Southwestern Style: Mix black beans and corn into the coleslaw with a lime-based dressing.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken for grilled mushrooms or roasted chickpeas.

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Serving Ideas

These wraps are satisfying on their own, but pairing them with sides makes for a full meal:

• Serve with crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh green salad.
• Offer extra BBQ sauce or ranch on the side for dipping.
• Garnish with cilantro, parsley, or a squeeze of lime for brightness.
• Pair with iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing balance.

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Quick Cooking Times

• Prep: 15 minutes
• Cook: 10 minutes
• Total: 25 minutes

Perfect for weeknights or last-minute entertaining!

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Nutritional Breakdown (Per Wrap, Approximate)

• Calories: 350–400
• Protein: 25g
• Carbs: 40g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 5g

For a lighter version, swap in whole wheat tortillas and Greek yogurt for mayo.

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FAQs

Can I use a different kind of chicken?
Yes! Grilled, baked, or even canned shredded chicken works.

What if I don’t have tortillas?
Use romaine or butter lettuce for a fresh, low-carb alternative.

Can I prep this in advance?
Definitely! Make the coleslaw a day ahead—it tastes even better once the flavors meld.

What sides go well with it?
Sweet potato fries, fruit salad, or a crisp green salad pair beautifully.

Can I freeze them?
It’s best to freeze the BBQ chicken separately. Assemble the wraps fresh to avoid soggy tortillas.

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Final Thoughts

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are proof that a simple meal can be unforgettable. With just a handful of ingredients and under 30 minutes, you’ll have a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for sharing. The smoky BBQ chicken and crunchy, tangy slaw balance each other beautifully, making every bite crave-worthy.

So, grab those tortillas, pile on the filling, and enjoy a wrap that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Trust me—these won’t last long at the table!