BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Recipe: A Comforting and Flavorful Weeknight Meal

It was a scorching summer day, and the smell of smoky BBQ wafted through the air as I stood in my backyard, spatula in hand. I had been perfecting my BBQ chicken coleslaw wraps recipe for years, and today was the day I was going to unveil my masterpiece to my friends and family. As they gathered around the picnic table, eagerly awaiting their first bite, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride. These BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps were more than just a dish – they were a labor of love, a delicious fusion of flavors that had taken me countless tries to perfect.

I remembered the first time I had tried to make them, the chicken not quite cooked through, the coleslaw too watery, and the wraps falling apart at the seams. But I refused to give up, experimenting with different marinades, cooking techniques, and ingredient combinations until I had found the perfect balance. And now, as my guests took their first bites, the look of delight on their faces told me that all the hard work had been worth it.

Why This BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

The Secret Behind Perfect BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Recipe

The secret to these BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps lies in the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. The juicy, smoky BBQ chicken pairs beautifully with the tangy, crunchy coleslaw, all wrapped up in a soft, warm tortilla. But it’s not just the flavors that make this recipe so special – it’s the unique techniques I’ve developed over the years to ensure that every bite is perfectly balanced and delicious.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The foundation of the dish, these chicken breasts are marinated in a flavorful BBQ sauce to infuse them with smoky, tangy goodness.
• Coleslaw mix: A mix of shredded cabbage and carrots provides the perfect crunchy counterpart to the tender chicken.
• BBQ sauce: The secret to the dish’s signature flavor, this homemade or store-bought BBQ sauce adds a delightful sweetness and tanginess to the chicken.
• Tortillas: Soft, warm tortillas wrap up the chicken and coleslaw, creating a handheld, portable meal.

Step-by-Step BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Recipe Instructions

Preparing Your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

To make these delectable BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps, you’ll need about 30 minutes of hands-on time and a bit of patience. But trust me, the end result is more than worth it. You’ll need a few basic kitchen tools, like a grill or grill pan, a mixing bowl, and a sharp knife, but the rest is straightforward.

1- Start by marinating the chicken in the BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.

2- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, and cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

3- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the coleslaw by tossing the shredded cabbage and carrots with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, vinegar, and a touch of honey.

4- Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes, then shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces.

5- Warm the tortillas according to the package instructions, then layer the shredded BBQ chicken and coleslaw onto the center of each tortilla.

6- Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it up tightly to create a delicious, handheld BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wrap.

Pro Tips for Success

To ensure your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps turn out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips:

– Don’t overcrowd the grill or grill pan – cook the chicken in batches to ensure even browning and cooking.
– Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, as chicken can be tricky to judge by eye.
– Taste the coleslaw before assembling the wraps and adjust the seasoning as needed.
– Warm the tortillas just before assembling to prevent them from cracking or tearing.

Serving and Storing Your BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Recipe

Perfect Pairings for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

These BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are the perfect summer meal, whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or packing a picnic lunch. They pair beautifully with a crisp, refreshing salad, some grilled corn on the cob, or a cold, fizzy beverage like lemonade or iced tea.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you have any leftover BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply unwrap the wrap and microwave it for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through.

For make-ahead convenience, you can prep the components in advance. Cook the chicken and make the coleslaw a day or two ahead of time, then simply assemble the wraps when you’re ready to serve. The chicken and coleslaw will keep well in the fridge, making this a great option for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

Variations and Dietary Adaptations for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps

Creative BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Variations

While the classic BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are a true delight, there are endless ways to put your own spin on this recipe. Try swapping out the BBQ sauce for a spicy chipotle or tangy honey mustard version. You can also experiment with different types of tortillas, like whole wheat or spinach-flavored wraps.

Making BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps Diet-Friendly

For those following a gluten-free or low-carb diet, you can easily adapt this recipe by using gluten-free tortillas or lettuce leaves in place of the traditional tortillas. Vegans and vegetarians can enjoy a plant-based version by substituting the chicken with grilled or sautéed tofu or tempeh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken is a great time-saving shortcut. Simply shred or chop the chicken and toss it with the BBQ sauce before assembling the wraps.

Q: How can I make the coleslaw creamier?
A: To create a creamier coleslaw, you can stir in a few tablespoons of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the vinaigrette. Start with a small amount and taste as you go to achieve your desired texture and flavor.

Q: Can I make these BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can definitely make these wraps in advance. Prepare the chicken and coleslaw separately, then assemble the wraps right before serving. Store the assembled wraps in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q: How many BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes approximately 6-8 wraps, depending on the size of your tortillas and how much filling you use in each one. Feel free to scale the recipe up or down to suit your needs.

Q: My wraps are falling apart – what am I doing wrong?
A: If your wraps are falling apart, it’s likely that the tortillas aren’t warm and pliable enough. Be sure to warm them according to the package instructions before assembling the wraps. You can also try using a tortilla warmer or wrapping them in a damp paper towel before microwaving.

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Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like the tangy, crunchy delight of BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps, and I’m confident that this recipe will become a new favorite in your household. The juicy, flavorful chicken paired with the crisp, refreshing coleslaw is a match made in heaven, all wrapped up in a soft, warm tortilla. Give this recipe a try, and I guarantee you’ll be coming back for seconds (or thirds!). Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out – I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!