BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps: Your New Weeknight Hero

Tired of dry, overcooked chicken that tastes like cardboard? I hear you. For years, I struggled with rubbery chicken wraps until I discovered the secret: juicy thighs, bold BBQ flavor, and a tangy slaw that brings everything to life. These BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are tender, smoky, and impossibly satisfying ready in under 40 minutes.

As someone who’s spent countless hours in professional kitchens and tested this recipe dozens of times at FoodFansy, I can promise you this: once you master the art of perfectly caramelized BBQ chicken paired with crisp, refreshing coleslaw, you’ll never go back to boring wraps again.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything from choosing the right chicken cuts and creating a flavor-packed marinade, to cooking techniques that guarantee juicy results every time. Plus, I’ll share storage hacks, global flavor twists, and answers to your most common questions.

Why This BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Recipe Works

There’s a reason these wraps have become a weeknight staple in my kitchen—and why they’ll become one in yours too. Here’s what makes them special:

• Uses affordable, easy-to-find ingredients: No exotic spices or hard-to-source cuts required—just chicken, BBQ sauce, and fresh vegetables you can grab at any grocery store.
• Marinate in just 15–30 minutes for maximum tenderness: Unlike recipes that require overnight prep, this one delivers bold flavor fast, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Incredibly versatile: Serve them for casual family dinners, pack them for lunch, or scale up for weekend gatherings—they work every time.
• The perfect flavor balance: Smoky, sweet BBQ chicken meets tangy, crunchy coleslaw in a combination that’s anything but boring.

Choosing the Right Meat for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

The foundation of any great chicken recipe starts with selecting the right cut. Here’s everything you need to know.

Best Cuts for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Chicken thighs are my top recommendation for this recipe. They’re naturally juicier and more forgiving than breasts, with enough fat to stay moist even if you slightly overcook them. The dark meat also absorbs marinades beautifully, giving you deeper, richer BBQ flavor in every bite.

That said, chicken breasts work well too, especially if you prefer leaner meat. Just be extra careful not to overcook them, and consider pounding them to an even thickness so they cook uniformly.

Buying Tips for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

When shopping for chicken, look for pieces that are pink (not gray), with no off-putting odors. If possible, choose organic or free-range chicken for better flavor and texture. Don’t be shy about asking your butcher for recommendations they can often suggest the freshest cuts or even trim excess fat for you.

Substitutions for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

If chicken isn’t your thing, this recipe is forgiving. Try boneless pork chops for a slightly sweeter flavor, or swap in turkey cutlets for a leaner alternative. Vegetarians can use thick slices of grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated tempeh for a plant-based twist.

Ingredients & Prep for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Great cooking starts with great prep. Let’s break down what you need and how to get everything ready.

Meat Prep Essentials for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Before you even think about marinades, proper chicken prep is crucial:

• Trim excess fat: While thighs have more fat than breasts, remove any large chunks of fat or loose skin that won’t crisp up.
• Pat chicken dry with paper towels: Moisture is the enemy of a good sear. Dry chicken = better caramelization.
• Lightly pound for even thickness: If you’re using breasts, place them between plastic wrap and gently pound to an even ¾-inch thickness. This ensures they cook evenly without dry edges.

Marinades & Rubs for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Here’s your flavor arsenal:

• Chicken thighs or breasts
• BBQ sauce (non-alcoholic, no added spirits)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt

Combine the dry spices and rub them all over the chicken, then coat generously with BBQ sauce. Let marinate for at least 15–30 minutes at room temperature, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for bold, deep flavor.

Pantry Staples for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

For the coleslaw and final assembly, keep these essentials on hand:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or natural sweetener
• 3 cups fresh shredded cabbage (mix of green and purple is beautiful)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• Tortillas or flatbreads for wrapping

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Let’s turn those ingredients into something delicious.

Pre-Cooking Prep for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Before the heat hits the pan, take these essential steps:

• Bring chicken to room temperature: Let marinated chicken sit out for 15–20 minutes before cooking. Cold chicken straight from the fridge won’t cook evenly.
• Pat dry again if needed: If excess marinade has pooled, lightly dab it away—you want flavor, not steaming.
• Season evenly: Give the chicken one final check to ensure the marinade is distributed well.

Cooking Method for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Now for the main event:

1. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat: Add a drizzle of olive oil and let it shimmer.
2. Cook chicken 5–7 minutes per side: Don’t move it around let it sit undisturbed to develop a beautiful caramelized crust. For thighs, you might need an extra minute or two per side.
3. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last 2–3 minutes: This creates a sticky, glossy finish without burning the sugars in the sauce.

Doneness Check for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Temperature is your best friend here. Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken it should read 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, slice into the thickest piece: juices should run clear, not pink.

Resting BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

This step is non-negotiable. Let the chicken rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is moist and tender. Then slice thinly against the grain for the most tender texture.

Pro Tips for Perfect BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Want to take your wraps from good to unforgettable? Keep these tricks in your back pocket.

Avoiding Tough or Dry Meat in BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook chicken in batches if needed. Too much in the pan drops the temperature and causes steaming instead of searing.
• Baste with butter or extra BBQ sauce: During the last minute of cooking, add a small pat of butter to the pan for extra richness.
• Use a meat thermometer: Guessing doneness leads to overcooked, rubbery chicken. A $15 thermometer solves this forever.

Tool Recommendations for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

A few key tools make all the difference:

• Instant-read meat thermometer: For perfect doneness every time
• Cast-iron skillet or grill pan: Retains heat beautifully for superior caramelization
• Sharp chef’s knife: Makes slicing cooked chicken effortless

Storage & Reheating BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Meal prep friendly? Absolutely.

• Refrigerate: Store cooked chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Cooked chicken freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Skip freezing the slaw—make it fresh.
• Reheat gently: Warm chicken in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce to prevent drying out.

Flavor Variations for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily it adapts to different cravings and dietary needs.

Spicy Twist on BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper to your dry rub, or stir a tablespoon of hot sauce into your BBQ marinade. For extra heat, toss sliced jalapeños into the coleslaw.

Keto/Paleo BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Swap regular BBQ sauce for a sugar-free version, and use coconut aminos instead of any soy-based ingredients. Replace tortillas with large lettuce leaves for a carb-free wrap.

Global Flavors for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Take your taste buds on a trip:

• Korean-inspired: Replace BBQ sauce with gochujang mixed with a little honey and sesame oil. Add kimchi to your slaw.
• Mexican street style: Use chipotle BBQ sauce and top with pickled red onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
• Mediterranean twist: Skip the BBQ and marinate chicken in lemon, garlic, and oregano. Use a yogurt-based slaw with dill and cucumber.

Serving Suggestions for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

These wraps shine on their own, but the right sides and pairings take them to the next level.

Serve alongside:

• Sweet potato fries or wedges: The sweetness complements the tangy BBQ beautifully
• Corn on the cob with herb butter: Classic summer pairing
• Cucumber and tomato salad: Light, refreshing, and balances the richness
• Baked beans: For that authentic BBQ spread

For drinks, try an ice-cold lager or wheat beer something light and crisp that won’t overpower the flavors. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, homemade lemonade or iced tea with mint is perfect.

FAQs About BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Can I use frozen chicken for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?

Yes, but thaw it completely first. The best method is overnight in the refrigerator. Never cook frozen chicken directly it won’t cook evenly and you’ll end up with dry edges and undercooked centers.

How do I fix overcooked chicken in BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?

If your chicken turned out dry, slice it thin and toss with extra BBQ sauce or a drizzle of olive oil. The moisture from the coleslaw in the wrap also helps. For next time, invest in a meat thermometer it’s the best insurance policy against overcooking.

Is this BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps recipe safe for pregnant women?

Yes, as long as the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Avoid raw or undercooked poultry during pregnancy. The coleslaw is also safe since it’s made with vinegar, not raw eggs like some mayonnaise-based slaws.

Can I make BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cook the chicken up to 3 days in advance and store it separately from the slaw. Make the slaw the night before it actually gets better as it marinates. Assemble wraps just before serving for the best texture.

What’s the best BBQ sauce for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps?

Use whatever you love! I prefer a tomato-based sauce with a balance of sweet and tangy. Avoid sauces with added alcohol or spirits for this recipe. If making your own, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and smoked paprika for a simple homemade version.

Conclusion

There you have it everything you need to master BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps that are juicy, flavorful, and ridiculously satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, this recipe delivers every single time.

Fire up your grill or skillet and try this tonight! I promise you’ll fall in love with the smoky-sweet chicken, the tangy crunch of the slaw, and how easily this all comes together.

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends or save it for later! I’d love to see your unique twist feel free to post your photos on Pinterest!

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps: Ultimate 5-Step Flavor Win

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• Author: Jacob Morgan
• Total Time: 35
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

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Description

Juicy BBQ chicken paired with tangy, crisp coleslaw wrapped in soft tortillas ready in under 40 minutes! These BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are smoky, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 lb chicken thighs or breasts

1/2 cup BBQ sauce (non-alcoholic)

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp salt

2 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

1 tbsp honey or natural sweetener

3 cups fresh shredded cabbage (green and purple mix)

1 cup shredded carrots

4–6 large tortillas or flatbreads

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Instructions

1. Trim excess fat from chicken, pat dry with paper towels, and lightly pound to even thickness if using breasts.

2. Combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl.

3. Rub spice mixture all over chicken, then coat generously with BBQ sauce. Let marinate for 15-30 minutes at room temperature.

4. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Toss with shredded cabbage and carrots to make coleslaw. Refrigerate until ready to use.

5. Bring marinated chicken to room temperature and pat dry if excess marinade has pooled.

6. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil.

7. Cook chicken 5-7 minutes per side without moving, until caramelized and cooked through.

8. Brush with additional BBQ sauce during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

9. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.

10. Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 5 minutes on a cutting board.

11. Slice chicken thinly against the grain.

12. Warm tortillas briefly in a dry pan or microwave.

13. Assemble wraps by placing sliced BBQ chicken and coleslaw in the center of each tortilla.

14. Fold and roll tortillas, then serve immediately.

Notes

Chicken thighs stay juicier than breasts but either works well.

Don’t skip the resting step—it keeps the chicken moist and tender.

Store cooked chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

Cooked chicken freezes well for up to 3 months; make slaw fresh.

For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade.

Make it keto-friendly by using sugar-free BBQ sauce and lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.

The coleslaw can be made a day ahead and actually improves as it marinates.

• Prep Time: 20
• Cook Time: 15
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1
• Calories: 385
• Sugar: 12
• Sodium: 720
• Fat: 14
• Saturated Fat: 3
• Unsaturated Fat: 9
• Trans Fat: 0
• Carbohydrates: 38
• Fiber: 4
• Protein: 28
• Cholesterol: 95

Keywords: BBQ chicken wraps, coleslaw wraps, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, grilled chicken, healthy wraps