BBQ Chicken Wraps Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with vibrant flavors and just the right amount of smokiness, these BBQ Chicken Wraps are going to be your new go-to. Imagine tender chicken breasts seasoned with paprika, garlic, and a hint of cayenne, glazed in a rich BBQ sauce that locks in all the juiciness. Wrapped in soft flour tortillas with crisp, colorful cabbage slaw and a tangy, creamy dressing, this dish perfectly balances smoky, sweet, tangy, and fresh elements in every bite. Whether you’re packing lunch or serving up a casual dinner, BBQ Chicken Wraps bring that cozy, satisfying vibe to your table with ease and a burst of personality.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, honest, and each one plays an important role in creating the magic of BBQ Chicken Wraps. From perfectly spiced chicken to crunchy slaw and a creamy dressing, every component adds texture, color, and flavor to complete the experience.

• Chicken Breasts (2 large): Butterflied and seasoned for tender, juicy meat.
• Good Quality BBQ Sauce (1 cup): Brings delicious smokiness and sweetness; choose a brand you love or homemade for best results.
• Smoked Paprika (1 heaped tsp): Adds depth and a subtle smoky aroma to the chicken.
• Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Infuses the chicken with classic warm garlic flavor.
• Salt (1/2 tsp): Essential to enhance all the other tastes.
• Cayenne Pepper (1/4 tsp): Gives a gentle, warming kick without overpowering.
• Black Pepper (1/4 tsp): Adds a bit of sharpness and spice.
• Olive Oil: For searing the chicken and locking in moisture.
• Carrot (1 large, grated): Adds sweetness and crunch to the slaw.
• Red Cabbage (1/4, finely sliced): Brings vibrant color and crisp texture.
• Green or White Cabbage (1/4, finely sliced): Offers freshness and bulk to the slaw mix.
• White Onion (1/2 medium, finely sliced): Sharpness and crunch to balance the creamy dressing.
• Mayo (4 tbsp, full fat): Makes the dressing rich and luscious.
• Sour Cream (1 tbsp): Adds tang and creaminess to brighten the slaw.
• Dijon Mustard (2 tsp): A subtle punch that lifts the flavor of the dressing.
• Apple Cider Vinegar (2 tsp): Provides acidity to cut through the richness.
• Sugar (1/2 tsp): Balances acidity with a touch of sweetness.
• Salt & Black Pepper (to taste): Finishing seasonings for the coleslaw.
• White Flour Tortilla Wraps (4 large): Soft and sturdy enough to hold all the ingredients together.
• Spinach or greens (4 small handfuls): Adds freshness and a lovely pop of green color.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Wraps

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by butterfly slicing the two chicken breasts so you end up with four even pieces—this helps them cook quickly and evenly. Coat each piece with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and a good drizzle of olive oil. This spice blend builds a foundation of smoky and savory flavors that will shine through once cooked.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Add BBQ Sauce

Heat a frying pan over medium-high and cook the chicken for about 3 to 4 minutes on one side. Then flip them and generously coat the cooked side with BBQ sauce. Let them fry a couple more minutes until cooked through and beautifully glazed with that sticky, rich sauce. Once done, place the chicken sauce-side down on a chopping board, brush again with more BBQ sauce, and let it rest for 5 minutes. Resting locks in the juices and makes your chicken irresistibly tender.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Slaw

While the chicken rests, mix together the mayo, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and sugar in a small bowl. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Toss this dressing with the grated carrot, thinly sliced onion, and both cabbages in a larger bowl. The creamy slaw adds a refreshing crunch and a slightly tangy balance to the smoky chicken.

Step 4: Slice the Chicken and Assemble the Wraps

Slice the rested chicken into strips, cutting against the grain at an angle for maximum tenderness. Lay your tortilla flat, place a small handful of spinach or your favorite greens toward the bottom-center, then pile on the slaw followed by the chicken strips. Fold the wrap as you would a burrito, snugly enclosing all the layers so nothing escapes upon the first bite.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Wraps

Garnishes

A few fresh sprigs of cilantro or chopped green onions go wonderfully on top or inside your wraps, adding freshness and a burst of herbal brightness that complements the smoky BBQ flavors beautifully. If you love a little heat, sprinkle some red chili flakes or drizzle a bit of hot sauce for a fiery twist.

Side Dishes

These wraps shine on their own but also pair nicely with a simple side salad, crispy sweet potato fries, or a refreshing cucumber salad. If you want to keep things crunchy and light, kettle-cooked chips or a bowl of fresh fruit are perfect partners to complete your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, you can slice the wraps into bite-sized pinwheels—great for parties or lunchboxes. Alternatively, serve each wrap cut in half on a wooden board with colorful bowls of extra BBQ sauce and mustard mayo dipping sauces. Presentation that invites sharing and dipping always amps up the enjoyment!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once assembled, you can wrap leftover BBQ Chicken Wraps tightly in foil or cling film and keep them in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors meld beautifully, but the wrap is best eaten cold or at room temperature to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

While the chicken can be frozen before assembling, it’s not recommended to freeze fully prepared wraps as the veggies can get watery and the tortillas tough. Freeze cooked chicken strips separately in an airtight container and thaw in the fridge before adding fresh slaw and assembling your wraps.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy your BBQ Chicken Wraps warm, reheat the chicken strips gently in a pan or microwave—just avoid overheating to keep them juicy. Warm your tortilla separately, then assemble with fresh slaw and greens for the best texture contrast.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat for these wraps?

Absolutely! While BBQ Chicken Wraps traditionally use chicken breasts, you can swap in grilled shrimp, pulled pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time and seasonings accordingly.

Is it okay to use store-bought BBQ sauce?

Yes, a good quality store-bought BBQ sauce works perfectly. Look for one that balances sweet, smoky, and tangy notes without being too overpowering. If you have time, homemade sauce adds a special touch.

What can I substitute for the cabbage in the slaw?

If you don’t have red or green cabbage, try using shredded kale, lettuce, or even thinly sliced bell peppers. The key is to keep that crunch and freshness that balances the creamy dressing.

Can I make these wraps gluten-free?

Definitely! Just swap out the flour tortillas for gluten-free wraps or large lettuce leaves for a lighter, gluten-free alternative. The fillings stay just as delicious.

How spicy are BBQ Chicken Wraps?

They have a gentle warmth from the cayenne pepper, but nothing too intense. If you prefer more heat, you can always add extra cayenne or serve with a hot sauce on the side to customize each bite.

Final Thoughts

These BBQ Chicken Wraps are a true celebration of bold flavors and satisfying textures wrapped up in a handy, delicious package. Whether you’re making a quick weekday lunch or sharing a casual dinner with friends, these wraps bring warmth, comfort, and freshness in every mouthful. I can’t recommend them enough—give them a try and watch your new favorite meal come to life!

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