Looking for a quick meal that's packed with flavor? You’ll love these BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps! They combine tender shredded chicken, zesty barbecue sauce, and a crunchy coleslaw mix—all wrapped in a soft tortilla. Whether you need lunch ideas for busy days or a simple dinner, this dish is both tasty and easy to make. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create your new favorite meal!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Fusion: The combination of BBQ chicken and creamy coleslaw creates a delightful mix of savory and crunchy textures.
- Healthy Twist: Using whole wheat tortillas and fresh veggies makes this wrap a healthier alternative to traditional sandwiches.
- Customizable: You can easily modify the ingredients to suit your taste preferences, whether adding extra toppings or different sauces.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: You can use grilled or rotisserie chicken. This makes it easy and tasty.
- 1 cup BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite flavor. Sweet, smoky, or spicy all work well.
- 2 cups coleslaw mix: This is a blend of cabbage and carrots. It adds crunch and freshness.
- 4 large whole wheat tortillas: These wraps hold everything together and add fiber.
- Optional garnishes: Try fresh cilantro or parsley for bright flavor. You can also add sliced green onions for extra crunch.
Gather these ingredients to make your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps. Each one plays a role in creating a tasty dish. The chicken gives protein, while the BBQ sauce adds flavor. The coleslaw mix brings in a nice crunch, and the tortillas hold it all together in a fun way. Enjoy customizing your wraps with your favorite flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Chicken and BBQ Sauce
First, take your shredded cooked chicken. You can use grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken. Place it in a medium bowl. Then, pour in your favorite BBQ sauce. Mix it well until the chicken is fully coated. This step is key! Let the chicken sit for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to blend nicely. You want every bite to taste amazing.
Making the Coleslaw Mixture
Next, grab another bowl for the coleslaw. Add the coleslaw mix, which is a blend of cabbage and carrots. Pour in the ranch dressing. Stir it until all the veggies are coated. This makes the coleslaw creamy and tasty. Now, add salt and pepper to your liking. Taste it to check the flavor. The crunch of the coleslaw will pair perfectly with the chicken.
Assembling the Wraps
Now it’s time to build your wraps. Take a whole wheat tortilla and lay it flat on your counter. Spoon a good amount of the BBQ chicken mixture into the center of the tortilla. Then, add a scoop of coleslaw right on top. This adds a nice crunch and a fresh taste. Next, sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese over the coleslaw.
For a little extra flavor, add sliced green onions on top. Now, fold in the sides of the tortilla. Carefully roll it up from the bottom. Make sure to keep the filling inside. Repeat this for all four tortillas.
Cooking Tips for Crispy Wraps
If you want crispy wraps, here’s a fun tip. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the assembled wraps to the hot skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for a nice golden brown color. This will give your wraps a crunchy texture. If you prefer, you can skip this step and enjoy them fresh. Either way, they will taste delicious!
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Shredding Chicken
To shred chicken easily, start with warm meat. Warm meat pulls apart better than cold. Use two forks to pull the chicken apart. You can also use your hands if they are clean. For a quick method, try a stand mixer. Just place the cooked chicken in the bowl and mix on low for a minute. This gives you perfectly shredded chicken in no time.
Flavor Enhancements for BBQ Sauce
To make your BBQ sauce pop, add a few extras. A splash of apple cider vinegar can add tang. Honey or brown sugar adds sweetness. For heat, try some hot sauce or cayenne. You can also mix in some smoked paprika or garlic powder for depth. Taste as you go to get the flavor just right.
How to Use Leftover Wraps
Wraps are great for leftovers! Store them in the fridge wrapped in foil or plastic. You can eat them cold, or warm them up in a skillet. If you have extra filling, use it in salads or on baked potatoes. You can also turn leftover wraps into quesadillas. Just add cheese and grill until crispy. The options are endless!
Pro Tips
- Use a Variety of BBQ Sauces: Experiment with different BBQ sauce flavors to find your perfect match. Sweet, smoky, or spicy sauces can dramatically change the taste profile of your wraps.
- Prep Ahead: For a quicker meal, prepare the BBQ chicken and coleslaw mixture a day in advance. This allows the flavors to develop and makes it easy to assemble wraps when you're ready to eat.
- Add Extra Crunch: Consider adding other crunchy vegetables to your coleslaw mix, such as bell peppers or radishes, to enhance the texture and flavor of the wraps.
- Warm Tortillas for Flexibility: Gently warm the tortillas in a pan or microwave before assembling the wraps. This makes them more pliable and easier to roll without tearing.
Variations
Alternative Proteins
You can switch up the protein in these wraps. Try using shredded pork or beef. You can also use tofu for a vegetarian option. Each choice brings a unique taste. Just mix it with your favorite BBQ sauce like you do with chicken. This keeps the flavor strong and fun.
Different Dressings for Coleslaw
While ranch dressing is great, other options work too. You can use a creamy mayo-based dressing or a tangy vinaigrette. A spicy sriracha dressing can add a kick. Each dressing will change the taste of the coleslaw. Experiment to find your favorite mix!
Gluten-Free and Low-Carb Options
If you're gluten-free, use corn tortillas or lettuce wraps. These options make the meal lighter. For low-carb diets, go for lettuce wraps too. They keep the flavors fresh without the carbs. You can enjoy this dish while sticking to your diet!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Wraps
To keep your leftover wraps fresh, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. The coleslaw may make the wraps soggy, so enjoy them soon.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your wraps, you have a few options. You can use a skillet or microwave. If using a skillet, heat it over medium-low heat. Cook each side for about two minutes until warm. For the microwave, place the wrap on a plate. Heat for about 30 seconds to one minute. Check for warmth before enjoying.
Freezing Recommendations
You can freeze these wraps for later. Wrap each one in plastic wrap and then foil. This adds extra protection against freezer burn. Store them in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat as instructed above for a tasty meal.
FAQs
What can I substitute for shredded chicken?
You can use canned tuna or shredded pork. Both give great flavor. You could also try cooked beans for a veggie option. Each choice adds its own taste to the wraps.
Can I prepare the coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the coleslaw mix a day before. Just store it in the fridge. This helps the flavors blend well. Just mix in the ranch dressing before you serve.
How do I keep wraps from getting soggy?
To avoid soggy wraps, use a layer of cheese. This acts as a barrier. You can also wrap them tightly and serve right away. Keeping the fillings dry helps, too.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely! These wraps store well in the fridge. Just keep the filling and tortillas separate. This way, they stay fresh longer and you can enjoy them later.
This blog post shared a simple way to make chicken wraps with BBQ sauce and coleslaw. You learned about the best ingredients, helpful tips, and fun variations. To make it even better, try different proteins and dressings. Don't forget about storing options and reheating your wraps. Now, you can enjoy these tasty wraps with friends or family. Happy cooking!
