There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a wrap filled with smoky BBQ chicken and crisp, creamy coleslaw. If you’re looking for a picnic-friendly meal that’s bursting with flavor and easy to assemble, these BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps are exactly what you need. You’ll love how the tangy coleslaw perfectly balances the rich, saucy chicken in every bite.
This recipe for BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps picnic perfection is designed to be simple, fresh, and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re packing them for a day out or serving them at a casual gathering, these wraps are sure to impress and keep everyone coming back for more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days or last-minute picnics.
- Combines smoky BBQ chicken with refreshing, crunchy coleslaw for balanced flavor.
- Versatile and portable, ideal for outdoor eating or packed lunches.
- Customizable ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs.
- Uses simple pantry staples and fresh produce for a wholesome meal.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh and flavorful ingredients to create your BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps.
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or grilled works well)
- 1/2 cup your favorite BBQ sauce
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seed (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas or wraps (10-inch size)
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (using pre-cooked chicken)
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4 wraps
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
How to Make BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Picnic Perfection
- In a medium bowl, toss the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until evenly coated. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
- In a separate large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and chopped red onion for the coleslaw base.
- Whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, celery seed, salt, and pepper in a small bowl; pour this dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well until everything is coated and creamy.
- Lay out each tortilla flat and evenly distribute the BBQ chicken down the center of each one.
- Top the chicken with a generous scoop of coleslaw and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if using.
- Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling and roll tightly from one end to the other to form a wrap.
- Slice each wrap in half diagonally and serve immediately, or wrap tightly in foil for easy transport to your picnic.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use warm chicken for easier sauce absorption and enhanced flavor.
- Make the coleslaw a few hours ahead to let the flavors develop but keep it chilled until serving.
- Choose flour tortillas with a soft, pliable texture to avoid cracking while rolling.
- If you like a little heat, add a dash of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños to the coleslaw.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute tortillas with large lettuce leaves or gluten-free wraps.
Storage and Reheating
These BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the coleslaw separate if possible to prevent the wraps from becoming soggy.
Since the chicken is already cooked, reheating is simple: warm the chicken portion in the microwave or a skillet before assembling fresh coleslaw and tortillas. Avoid reheating the entire wrap to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Pulled pork or shredded turkey both work wonderfully with BBQ sauce and coleslaw. Just adjust the cooking method accordingly if you’re starting with raw meat.
What kind of BBQ sauce is best for this recipe?
Choose a BBQ sauce that matches your flavor preference—whether sweet, smoky, or tangy. A classic hickory or Kansas City-style sauce pairs nicely with the creamy coleslaw.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a picnic?
Yes, prepare the BBQ chicken and coleslaw separately and store them in airtight containers. Assemble the wraps just before serving to keep them fresh and prevent sogginess.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep lunches?
Definitely! These wraps are easy to pack and hold up well for a couple of days refrigerated. Just keep the coleslaw separate until you’re ready to eat if you want to avoid sogginess.