BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Picnic Perfection Recipe

There’s something truly special about a picnic meal that combines ease and flavor, and these BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps deliver exactly that. Whether you’re packing lunch for a day in the park or a casual backyard gathering, these wraps are a crowd-pleaser that come together quickly and taste incredible. The smoky, tender BBQ chicken perfectly complements the crunchy, tangy coleslaw for a refreshing bite every time.

this Recipe

If you love recipes that balance savory and fresh elements with minimal fuss, you’re going to enjoy making and eating these bbq chicken wraps. The bright flavors and satisfying textures create a meal that feels like a celebration of summer, no matter where you serve them.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare in under 40 minutes, ideal for busy days.
• Perfect balance of smoky BBQ chicken with crisp, creamy coleslaw.
• Great make-ahead option for picnics, lunches, or casual dinners.
• Customizable with your favorite BBQ sauce and fresh herbs.
• Serves 6 people, making it perfect for family or small group meals.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these delicious BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps from scratch. Fresh ingredients and simple pantry staples come together with a homemade coleslaw dressing to keep it light and flavorful.

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup BBQ sauce, plus extra for serving
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon celery seed (optional)
• 6 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 6 wraps
• Calories: Approximately 420 per serving

How to Make BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Picnic Perfection

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 375°F). Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil, then season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is nicely charred and cooked through. Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
3. While the chicken rests, prepare the coleslaw by mixing the shredded cabbage and carrots in a large bowl. In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, celery seed, and a pinch of salt.
4. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Slice the grilled chicken into thin strips, then toss with 1 cup of BBQ sauce until well coated.
6. Warm the flour tortillas on the grill or stovetop for 30 seconds each side until soft and pliable.
7. Assemble each wrap by placing a generous handful of BBQ chicken strips in the center of a tortilla, topping with a scoop of coleslaw, and adding fresh cilantro leaves for brightness.
8. Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll tightly from the bottom up to enclose the ingredients.
9. Serve immediately with lime wedges and extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use fresh, crisp cabbage and carrots for the best coleslaw texture and taste.
• Don’t skip letting the chicken rest after grilling to keep it juicy and tender.
• Warm the tortillas right before assembling to prevent cracking or tearing.
• Adjust the BBQ sauce quantity to your preference—add more for a saucier wrap or less for a lighter flavor.
• For a smoky twist, add a pinch of chipotle powder to the coleslaw dressing.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the BBQ chicken, coleslaw, and tortillas separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken and coleslaw will keep well for up to 3 days.

When ready to eat, gently reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop, then assemble fresh wraps to avoid soggy tortillas. Avoid freezing as the coleslaw texture will degrade.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these wraps ahead of time?

It’s best to prepare the components ahead but assemble the wraps just before serving to keep the tortillas from getting soggy and the coleslaw crisp.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the coleslaw?

You can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative to lighten the dressing or accommodate dietary preferences.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! Pulled pork or shredded rotisserie chicken work great with this coleslaw and BBQ sauce combination.

Are these wraps gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, simply use gluten-free tortillas and verify that your BBQ sauce contains no gluten ingredients.