BBQ chicken wrap recipes are one of those meals that hit every note: smoky, savory, sweet, and a little crunchy. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or throwing something together in a rush, this wrap delivers comfort and bold flavor in under 20 minutes. In this article, I’ll walk you through the story behind this favorite, the essential ingredients, how to build it like a pro, and of course how to keep it crisp and satisfying. I’ll also answer a few common questions about storing, serving, and the healthiness of BBQ chicken wraps.
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The Story Behind My BBQ Chicken Wrap Love
My First Taste of BBQ Chicken Wraps
It started on a humid summer evening. The kind where dinner happens outdoors, drinks sweat in your hand, and music spills from the kitchen. My aunt handed me a warm tortilla filled with smoky BBQ chicken, crisp cabbage, and a drizzle of ranch. It was a bbq chicken wrap, and it was everything I didn’t know I needed.
Back home, I had to recreate it. I grilled chicken thighs, tossed them in my own blend of sweet and smoky barbecue sauce, and added a layer of crunch with slaw. That single meal inspired countless versions, including my bbq chicken rub which I now keep in a jar year-round.
BBQ chicken wraps soon became my go-to. They’re easy to prep, endlessly versatile, and great hot or cold. Now, when I crave something easy but flavorful, this recipe is the first thing I reach for. And if you love that balance of sweet, smoky, and satisfying? You’re going to love this recipe too.
To elevate the flavor even more, I often use Stubbs Barbecue Sauce when I want a bold Texas twist.
Why BBQ Chicken Wraps Are a Staple in My Kitchen
BBQ chicken wraps offer everything I want in a quick meal. They’re filling without being heavy, and you can customize them in dozens of ways. Need low-carb? Use lettuce wraps. Want bold spice? Try a fiery rub or a jalapeño slaw.
These wraps are also ideal for using up leftovers. A bit of rotisserie chicken, some shredded cheese, and one of my favorite sauces done. On nights when I’m exhausted but still want something homemade, this wrap is my hero.
They’ve also made frequent appearances on my lunch menu next to refreshing summer sides like bbq pasta salad, turning a simple wrap into a crave-worthy combo. Whether you’re packing for a picnic or just need to use what’s in the fridge, BBQ chicken wraps always deliver.
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BBQ Chicken Wrap Recipe: A Quick, Flavorful Meal You’ll Crave Again
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 wraps 1x
- Cuisine: American
Description
This BBQ Chicken Wrap recipe is smoky, juicy, and bursting with flavor—perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back lunches. Made with tender grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy dressing, it comes together in just 20 minutes and is easy to meal prep.
Ingredients
1½ cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
3–4 tablespoons BBQ sauce (your choice)
2 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Jack, or feta)
2 tablespoons ranch or Greek yogurt dressing
Optional: coleslaw, avocado slices, tortilla strips
Instructions
Warm each tortilla in a skillet over medium heat for 15 seconds per side until soft and pliable.
In a bowl, toss the cooked chicken with BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
Lay out the tortilla. Spread a small amount of BBQ sauce on the base.
Layer with BBQ chicken, lettuce or cabbage, red onion, cheese, and any extras like avocado or slaw.
Drizzle with ranch or Greek yogurt dressing.
Fold in the sides, roll tightly from the bottom up, and slice in half to serve.
To store: Wrap tightly in parchment or foil and refrigerate up to 2 days.
Notes
For a healthier version, use whole wheat tortillas and swap cheddar for feta.
To prevent sogginess, avoid watery vegetables like tomatoes.
Great for meal prep—just store the sauce separately and drizzle before eating.
Add jalapeños or a spicy BBQ sauce for extra heat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wrap
- Calories: 420 per wrap
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
What Makes a BBQ Chicken Wrap So Irresistible?
Choosing the Right Chicken and Sauce
There’s something incredibly comforting about the straightforward nature of a bbq chicken wrap, but don’t let the simplicity fool you quality ingredients are what truly make it shine. When it comes to the chicken, opt for something that’s juicy and well-seasoned. Whether you toss in some grilled breast, oven-roasted pieces, shredded slow-cooked meat, or even leftover rotisserie from last night’s dinner, it all works beautifully. Personally, I lean toward boneless thighs for their rich texture and deeper flavor, especially after a long soak in my homemade spice rub.
Let’s talk sauce. You’ll want one that’s got layers smoky, sweet, tangy, and maybe just a touch of heat. It’s that flavor depth that harmonizes with sharp cheese and crunchy veggies. If you’re watching your sugar intake, consider using a lighter version like this sugar-free barbecue sauce that still delivers bold taste.
And if you’re in the mood to get a little creative, try incorporating pineapple-marinated chicken inspired by this Hawaiian BBQ chicken recipe. That sweet-and-smoky combo is made for warm-weather meals and family gatherings.
Wraps, Fillings, and Toppings That Work
The wrap itself is your base, so go with something soft yet durable. Classic flour tortillas are my usual pick, but for a nutrient bump, whole wheat or spinach wraps are a fantastic upgrade. Want to skip the carbs? Big leafy romaine or collards can hold your fillings just as well.
When it comes time to build your wrap, begin by smearing a bit of BBQ sauce on the base it locks in flavor and helps keep the fillings in place. Layer in your cooked chicken, then add texture and freshness with shredded cabbage or crisp romaine. A few slices of red onion give it bite, and for cheese, feel free to choose between sharp cheddar, melty Monterey Jack, or crumbly feta for a bold twist.
For a creamy element, finish with a spoonful of ranch dressing or a dollop of Greek yogurt mixed with a squeeze of lime and pinch of garlic. Craving crunch? Toss in some slaw or broken tortilla strips right before rolling it up for extra bite.
Need a satisfying side that plays well with the smoky wrap? These slow cooker chicken fajitas add heat and variety to the plate perfect for feeding a crowd or spicing up your meal prep rotation.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Wraps at Home
Prep and Assemble Your Wrap
Crafting a standout bbq chicken wrap doesn’t take much—just fresh ingredients, a solid layering method, and a few easy prep steps. You don’t need fancy tools or hours of prep. Just keep things flavorful and simple.
Start by preparing the chicken. If you’re using leftovers from a previous grill session, just toss them in a warm skillet with a splash of BBQ sauce until heated through. If starting fresh, season generously—I always reach for this aromatic bbq chicken rub—then cook until the chicken is golden and juicy.
Here’s a quick guide to what you’ll need for two hearty wraps:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cooked chicken (shredded/chopped) | 1½ cups |
| Your favorite BBQ sauce | 3 to 4 tbsp |
| Large flour tortillas (10-inch) | 2 |
| Shredded lettuce or cabbage | 1 cup |
| Thinly sliced red onion | ¼ cup |
| Cheese (cheddar, Jack, or feta) | ½ cup |
| Ranch or Greek yogurt dressing | 2 tbsp |
| Optional: coleslaw, avocado, tortilla strips | As needed |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Warm the Tortillas
Start by heating each tortilla in a dry skillet for several seconds on both sides. This softens them up and makes wrapping a breeze.
Toss the Chicken in BBQ Sauce
In a mixing bowl, coat your chicken generously with BBQ sauce. You can stick to classic flavors or experiment with something bolder like this smoky twist from the Weber BBQ burger recipe for a surprise pop.
Layer It Up Right
Place the warm tortilla on your work surface. Spread a little more BBQ sauce over the base for extra flavor. Then, add your chicken, greens, red onion, and cheese. You can also throw in coleslaw, diced avocado, or tortilla strips for more texture and freshness.
Wrap and Serve
Once your fillings are in place, drizzle on your ranch or yogurt dressing. Fold the sides inward, roll from the bottom, and give it a firm press to seal. Cut diagonally and serve immediately while it’s still warm and fresh.
Planning to Make Them in Advance?
These wraps are meal-prep friendly. After rolling, wrap them tightly in parchment or foil. Refrigerate them for up to 48 hours. Just go easy on high-moisture ingredients like tomatoes to keep the wraps from getting soggy (we’ll share more on that in the next section).
Serving BBQ Chicken Wraps the Right Way
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Wraps
Once you’ve wrapped up your perfectly seasoned bbq chicken wrap, the only thing left is choosing what to serve with it. Whether you’re planning an easy lunch or a laid-back weekend spread, the right side dish can transform this wrap into a complete, balanced meal.
One of my favorite go-to sides is a crisp slaw tangy, vibrant, and a refreshing contrast to smoky chicken and warm tortillas. If you’re craving something a little heartier, a cold scoop of creamy BBQ pasta salaBBQ Pasta Salad Recipe for a Quick, Crowd-Friendly Dishd brings comfort and flavor in every bite. For richer palates, pair the wrap with a bit of BBQ corned beef brisket. Its deep, savory profile creates a beautiful balance next to the wrap’s lighter textures.
Other sides that work like a charm include:
- Grilled corn on the cob brushed with chili-lime butter
- Sweet potato fries served with garlic or chipotle aioli
- Cucumber and tomato salad tossed in vinegar and herbs
- Pickled jalapeños for a bit of spice and brightness
What makes these wraps especially fun is how versatile they are pair them with summery bites or warming fall favorites, and they’ll always hold their own.
Storage, Sogginess, and Leftover Tips
Keeping wraps from getting soggy can be tricky, especially if you’re prepping ahead but with a few smart tweaks, your bbq chicken wrap can stay delicious long after you roll it.
Use sturdy greens like cabbage or iceberg that won’t wilt or release excess moisture. Also, apply dressings or sauces in the center and sparingly to avoid soggy edges.
After rolling, wrap each tightly in parchment or foil to lock everything in. Next, slide them into a sealed container or zip-top bag and store in the fridge. This setup helps them stay fresh for up to two days without losing their structure or flavor.
When it’s time to eat, reheating in a skillet gives you the best results just a couple minutes on each side to bring back the warm, crisp exterior. If you’re in a rush, a microwave can work, though the wrap may turn softer.
Leftovers don’t have to be boring either. You can slice up the wrap, toss the pieces into a fresh green salad, and drizzle with extra BBQ sauce for an effortless next-day lunch. Or turn them into fun pinwheels for a quick party platter or kid-friendly snack tray.
Conclusion
Whether you’re building it for lunch, dinner, or weekend meal prep, the bbq chicken wrap is one of those recipes that never gets old. It’s quick, customizable, and full of bold flavor everything I love in a home-cooked meal. With a few pantry staples and fresh veggies, you can create something that feels satisfying without being fussy. Plus, the leftovers are just as exciting, whether you’re slicing them into party bites or tossing them into a salad. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine.
Hungry for more flavor-packed meals like this? Don’t miss my recipes for slow cooker chicken fajitas and sugar-free barbecue sauce to keep your mealtime both easy and exciting.
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FAQs About BBQ Chicken Wraps
How long will chicken wraps last?
When properly stored in the fridge, a bbq chicken wrap can last up to two days. To keep it fresh, wrap it tightly in foil or parchment and place it in an airtight container. For best results, avoid overly wet ingredients like sliced tomatoes or excessive dressing, which can cause sogginess over time. If you’re planning to reheat it, use a skillet to bring back that satisfying texture.
What to have with barbecue chicken wraps?
BBQ chicken wraps go great with fresh, bold sides that complement their smoky flavor. Think crispy slaw, grilled corn, sweet potato fries, or a vinegar-based cucumber salad. For something heartier, try a scoop of bbq pasta salad or even bbq corned beef brisket. These sides not only add balance but also make the meal feel more complete and satisfying.
How do you keep chicken wraps from getting soggy?
Achieving a perfectly crisp bbq chicken wrap starts with smart layering and thoughtful storage. Choose drier greens like shredded cabbage or sturdy romaine to keep moisture at bay, and be mindful not to overdo the sauce especially around the edges where it can seep through. Once assembled, roll it snugly in parchment or foil, then tuck it into an airtight container before refrigerating. Avoiding juicy add-ins like tomatoes or heavy dressings is another simple way to keep your tortilla from turning soggy too soon.
Are chicken wraps healthy?
Absolutely when made with lean proteins and wholesome fillings, bbq chicken wraps can be a very balanced meal. Use grilled or baked chicken, skip sugary sauces, and load up on crunchy vegetables. Swapping in a whole wheat tortilla or using Greek yogurt instead of ranch can cut calories without sacrificing flavor. It’s an easy way to enjoy something indulgent that still fits into a nutritious routine.
Welcome to Yumi Meals!
I’m Yumi, and this space is a heartfelt extension of my lifelong love for cooking. What began in my grandmother’s kitchen has become a journey of sharing soulful, approachable recipes that celebrate connection, tradition, and creativity. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion, I hope Yumi Meals brings warmth and inspiration to your table.
