Name: BBQ Chicken Wraps
Prep time: 16 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 24 min
Ingredients: 2 large Chicken Breasts (take out fridge 10-15mins before using); 1 cup Good Quality BBQ Sauce (or as needed); 1 heaped tsp Smoked Paprika; 1 tsp Garlic Powder; 1/2 tsp Salt; 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper; 1/4 tsp Black Pepper; Olive Oil; 1 large Carrot (grated on a box grater); 1/4 Red Cabbage (finely sliced); 1/4 Green/White Cabbage (finely sliced); 1/2 medium White Onion (finely sliced); 4 tbsp Mayo ((full fat)); 1 tbsp Sour Cream; 2 tsp Dijon Mustard; 2 tsp Apple Cider Vinegar; 1/2 tsp Sugar; Salt & Black Pepper (to taste); 4 large White Flour Tortilla Wraps; 4 small handfuls Spinach (or greens of choice)

Introduction to BBQ Chicken Wraps

Why BBQ Chicken Wraps are the Perfect Homemade Meal

If you're searching for a delicious, quick, and flexible meal, look no further than BBQ chicken wraps! These wraps effortlessly blend juicy grilled chicken, smoky barbecue sauce, and a vibrant homemade coleslaw, all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. What’s not to love?

Creating these wraps is not only fun but also allows for customization based on your mood or what's in your pantry. Substitute chicken with turkey bacon or even beef if you're feeling adventurous, and feel free to toss in any leftover veggies or greens. This versatility makes BBQ chicken wraps a go-to choice for busy weeknights or weekend lunches with friends.

And let’s not forget the flavor! The combination of sweet and tangy barbecue sauce paired with the crunch of coleslaw creates a harmonious bite that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Plus, they can be prepped in less than 30 minutes!

For more inspiration and variations, check out our friends at Simply Recipes for their take on BBQ chicken wraps that you can try at home. Your taste buds are in for a treat!

Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Wraps

Essential ingredients for delicious BBQ chicken

To create these mouthwatering BBQ chicken wraps, you'll need a few key ingredients that come together to pack a flavor punch. Here's what you'll need:

Chicken Breasts: 2 large breasts, ideally left out of the fridge for 10-15 minutes prior to cooking for optimal juiciness.
BBQ Sauce: Aim for a cup of good quality sauce to really make those chicken flavors shine.
Spices: You’ll want smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper to season the chicken perfectly.
Olive Oil: A drizzle for frying the chicken, adding an extra layer of richness.

Optional add-ins for flavor customization

Want to tailor your BBQ chicken wraps to your taste? Consider these tasty optional add-ins:

Cheeses: Add some shredded cheese for creaminess—think applewood cheese for a smoky touch.
Bacon or Turkey Bacon: Crispy turkey bacon can give that extra crunch and flavor.
Veggies: Sliced jalapeños or bell peppers can add a nice kick or crunch.
Avocado: For creaminess and a healthy fat boost, diced avocado is a great choice.

Feel free to mix and match to find your perfect balance of flavors!

Preparing BBQ Chicken Wraps

Making your own BBQ chicken wraps at home is a fun and rewarding experience. They are packed with flavor, and you’ll love the fresh, homemade coleslaw that compliments the tender chicken beautifully. Let’s walk through the process together!

Gather your gear and prep your workspace

Before we dive in, it’s essential to gather your gear and prep your cooking area. Having everything organized will make the cooking process smoother. You’ll need:

Griddle pan
Box grater
Large mixing bowl and spatula
Small pot or ramekin for making the dressing
Sharp knife and chopping board
Brush for applying BBQ sauce

Clear your counter of any clutter, wash your hands, and make sure your ingredients are prepped. It’s amazing how much easier it gets when your workspace is tidy!

Seasoning and cooking the chicken

Now, it’s time to season our chicken. Start by butterfly slicing your two large chicken breasts, so they cook evenly. In a bowl, mix 1 heaping teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Drizzle some olive oil over the chicken and rub the seasoning all over.

Heat your griddle pan over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, brushing the top with quality BBQ sauce after flipping. Once cooked, let it rest on a chopping board for a few minutes before slicing it into strips. This not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the chicken juicy!

Making the homemade coleslaw

Next up, let’s whip up some zingy coleslaw. Combine 4 tablespoons of mayo, 1 tablespoon of sour cream, 2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard, 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar, and ½ teaspoon of sugar in a small bowl. Mix vigorously until well combined.

In a larger mixing bowl, add your grated carrot, sliced red cabbage, sliced green cabbage, and finely sliced onion. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss to combine. The key is to taste as you go, ensuring it's just right for your palate!

Assembling the wraps

Assembling your BBQ chicken wraps is where the magic happens! Start by laying a large tortilla wrap on your workspace. Place a handful of spinach or your greens of choice in a line down the center. Add a generous portion of the coleslaw, followed by those delicious BBQ chicken strips.

Now, fold the bottom of the wrap over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll it up tightly like a burrito. Voila! Your wrap is ready to devour.

Tips for achieving the perfect wrap

Don’t overfill: While it's tempting to put lots of filling, overstuffing can make rolling difficult and may lead to spills.
Warm your tortillas: Softening your tortillas in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds makes them more pliable.
Make ahead: For extra convenience, prep the coleslaw a few hours in advance and store it separately to keep everything crisp.

With these steps, you’ll be ready to enjoy some delicious BBQ chicken wraps that will surely impress anyone lucky enough to share your table!

Variations on BBQ Chicken Wraps

BBQ Chicken with Turkey Bacon

For a delightful twist on your BBQ chicken wraps, try adding crispy turkey bacon! Simply cook the turkey bacon until it reaches your desired crispiness, then layer it in the wrap alongside your BBQ chicken and coleslaw. The smoky flavor of the bacon enhances the sweetness of the BBQ sauce, creating a satisfying bite. Plus, it introduces an extra dimension of texture, making each mouthful a delicious experience.

BBQ Chicken with Beef Strips

Switch things up by incorporating beef strips instead of chicken for a hearty alternative. Marinate your beef in a bit of BBQ sauce and some spices, then grill it to perfection. Once sliced, mix the beef with your coleslaw and wrap it in the tortilla for a bold, savory flavor. This variation not only satisfies those meat cravings but also adds a unique flair to the classic BBQ chicken wraps, making them more versatile and exciting.

Cooking Tips and Notes for BBQ Chicken Wraps

Best practices for marinating chicken

To ensure your chicken is bursting with flavor, marinate it for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight if possible. This allows the rich BBQ sauce to deeply penetrate the meat. For a more intense flavor, consider adding spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder right into the marinade. Just remember, always make sure to return your chicken to room temperature before cooking for even cooking throughout.

Store-bought vs. homemade BBQ sauce: what to choose?

While homemade BBQ sauce has its charm, don’t underestimate quality store-bought options. Brands like Jack Daniel's offer fantastic flavors that can save you time. If time allows, combine your favorite store-bought sauce with a hint of honey or hot sauce to create a unique twist just for your BBQ chicken wraps. Feel free to experiment!

For more tips on flavor profiles, check out this simple BBQ sauce recipe.

Serving Suggestions for BBQ Chicken Wraps

Pairing Wraps with Sides for a Complete Meal

To transform your BBQ chicken wraps into a full-fledged meal, consider pairing them with vibrant sides like crispy sweet potato fries or a refreshing watermelon salad. A side of grilled corn on the cob can also complement the smoky flavors of the wraps beautifully, while providing a burst of sweetness. Don't forget a zesty dip, like ranch or guacamole, for an extra layer of flavor!

Creative Serving Ideas for Picnics or Meal Prep

If you're planning a picnic or meal prep, cut your BBQ chicken wraps in half and secure them with toothpicks for easy serving. Pack individual portions of coleslaw in jars, keeping the wraps and slaw fresh until you're ready to enjoy. For a fun twist, you could use flavored tortilla wraps like spinach or sun-dried tomato to add a pop of color. And for a delicious vegetarian option, swap chicken for grilled portobello mushrooms!

For more delicious sides and meal ideas, check out this guide on picnic essentials or explore meal prep tips that can streamline your week!

Time Breakdown for BBQ Chicken Wraps

Preparation time

You'll need approximately 16 minutes to get everything ready. This includes marinating the chicken and chopping your veggies for that delicious homemade coleslaw.

Cooking time

After your prep, the cooking portion is quite quick! Expect to spend around 8 minutes frying the chicken until it’s perfectly tender and juicy.

Total time

In just 24 minutes, you'll have these mouthwatering BBQ chicken wraps ready to serve! It’s a fantastic option for a quick lunch or dinner for you and your friends. Enjoy every bite!

For more efficiency tips, check out this guide on meal prepping to save even more time in the kitchen!

Nutritional Facts for BBQ Chicken Wraps

When crafting the perfect BBQ chicken wrap, keeping track of your nutritional intake is key! Here's a quick breakdown of the essentials:

Calories: Each wrap is approximately 621 calories, making it a hearty choice for lunch or dinner.
Protein: With around 42.63g of protein, these wraps will help you stay energized and satisfied!
Fat: They contain about 21.21g of fat, providing healthy fats while ensuring flavor isn't compromised.

Enjoy a wholesome meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious! For more about caloric needs and healthy eating, check out Healthline.

FAQs about BBQ Chicken Wraps

Can I make BBQ chicken wraps ahead of time?

Absolutely! However, to maintain freshness, it's best to prepare the components separately. You can grill the chicken and make the coleslaw in advance, storing them in airtight containers. Just assemble your BBQ chicken wraps right before serving to avoid a soggy wrap.

What vegetables can I add to my wraps?

Feel free to mix things up! In addition to the classic spinach, consider adding:

Bell peppers for a sweet crunch.
Cucumbers for a refreshing bite.
Avocado for creaminess.
Jalapeños if you like some heat.

These additions not only enhance flavor but also boost the nutritional profile.

How do I store leftovers?

To keep your leftovers fresh, separate the chicken, coleslaw, and wraps. Store each in airtight containers in the fridge. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat the chicken as needed, and then assemble your BBQ chicken wraps for a quick, delicious meal! For more tips on food storage, check out the USDA Food Safety Guidelines.

Conclusion on BBQ Chicken Wraps

The joy of homemade meals is in the flavors—enjoy!

Creating BBQ chicken wraps is not just about feeding yourself; it's about savoring the delightful combination of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors wrapped in a convenient package. Gather your favorite ingredients and enjoy a meal that’s both satisfying and bursting with personality. Happy cooking!