Get ready to fall in love with Crispy BBQ Chicken Wraps—your new weeknight hero and on-the-go favorite! Imagine juicy shredded chicken drenched in smoky-sweet barbecue sauce, tucked in a warm tortilla with melty cheddar, crunchy coleslaw or lettuce, and just a hint of creamy ranch, then pan-fried to golden perfection. Every bite is satisfyingly crunchy, packed with layers of flavor, and completely irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a crowd-pleasing dinner, or meal-prep magic, these wraps hit the spot every single time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Crispy BBQ Chicken Wraps lies in their simple, accessible ingredients—each one playing a key role in creating a medley of flavors and textures. These everyday staples come together to give you something truly special, so be sure to pick high-quality options for best results.
- Cooked chicken breast, shredded (2 cups): Rotisserie or freshly cooked chicken brings protein and heartiness, perfectly soaks up BBQ flavor.
- Barbecue sauce (1 cup): The bold, smoky sweetness ties every element together—choose your favorite brand or homemade!
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Adds gooey, rich deliciousness and melts beautifully inside the wraps.
- Coleslaw mix or shredded lettuce (1 cup): Provides cool, satisfying crunch and keeps the filling fresh.
- Large flour tortillas, burrito size (4): Essential for wrapping up everything snugly and getting that perfect crisp when pan-fried.
- Ranch dressing (1/4 cup, optional): Delivers a creamy, tangy counterpoint—totally optional but highly recommended!
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used for pan-frying, gives the wraps their signature golden, crispy exterior.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: A dash of both rounds out flavors and enhances every bite.
How to Make Crispy BBQ Chicken Wraps
Step 1: Prep the BBQ Chicken Filling
In a large mixing bowl, toss the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce until every strand is generously coated. This is where the smoky-sweet magic happens—don’t be shy with the sauce, as it brings everything to life.
Step 2: Warm the Tortillas
Give your tortillas a quick warm up in the microwave or on a dry skillet. This makes them soft and flexible, so you can wrap them up tight without any cracks or tears.
Step 3: Assemble the Wraps
Lay each tortilla out flat. Heap about 1/2 cup of BBQ chicken in the center, sprinkle with a quarter-cup of shredded cheddar, add a generous handful of coleslaw mix or lettuce, then drizzle with ranch if using. Fold in the sides, then roll it up nice and snug to seal everything inside.
Step 4: Pan-Fry to Crispy Perfection
Heat a skillet over medium, then swirl in the olive oil. Place the wraps seam-side down and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the exterior is crisped and a deep golden brown. The cheese inside should be melty, the outside enticingly crunchy!
Step 5: Rest, Slice, and Serve
Let your wraps rest for a minute so the fillings settle, then slice each one in half on the diagonal. The crispy edges, melted cheese, and colorful filling will make you want to dig in instantly.
How to Serve Crispy BBQ Chicken Wraps
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar, a scattering of fresh herbs (like chives or cilantro), or even a few pickled jalapeño slices on the side makes your Crispy BBQ Chicken Wraps pop both in flavor and visual appeal. Serve with a little dish of extra BBQ or ranch for dipping, too!
Side Dishes
Pair these wraps with crisp oven fries, a fresh green salad, or some classic corn on the cob. If you want something light, simple carrot and celery sticks with your favorite dip are always a hit.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the Crispy BBQ Chicken Wraps into bite-sized pinwheels for party appetizers, or pack them up whole in meal-prep containers for lunch on the go. Serving on a wooden board with bright veggie sides turns this simple wrap into a total showstopper!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra wraps, simply let them cool completely and wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to three days, making them perfect for easy lunches or midnight snacks.
Freezing
Crispy BBQ Chicken Wraps can be frozen! Once assembled, wrap each tightly and place in an airtight container. Freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To bring back that signature crispiness, reheat the wraps in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side, or pop them in the oven at 350°F until hot and crispy. The microwave works in a pinch, though the exterior won’t be as crunchy.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese in these wraps?
Absolutely! While cheddar brings a bold, classic flavor, you can swap in Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even mozzarella for something a bit milder or spicier. Feel free to experiment based on your favorite cheesy combos!
What’s the best way to make these a bit healthier?
To lighten up your Crispy BBQ Chicken Wraps, skip the pan-frying and opt for baking on a parchment-lined tray at 400°F until crispy. You can also use low-fat cheese and whole wheat tortillas, and load up on extra lettuce or slaw for a veggie boost.
Can I make the chicken filling ahead of time?
Definitely! The BBQ chicken mixture can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the fridge. This makes assembly even faster when you need a quick meal.
Are these wraps kid-friendly?
Yes! Kids usually love the sweet BBQ flavor and gooey cheese. Keep ingredients mild, and let kids help assemble their wraps for some extra fun at mealtime.
What other toppings or fillings work well?
Take your Crispy BBQ Chicken Wraps up a notch with extras like sliced avocado, diced red onion, jalapeños for heat, crispy bacon, or even a handful of tortilla chips for crunch. They’re endlessly customizable to suit your cravings!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an easy, flavor-packed meal that never gets old, you can’t go wrong with Crispy BBQ Chicken Wraps. They’re comforting, totally customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Give them a try—and don’t be surprised when they become a new go-to in your kitchen!
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Crispy BBQ Chicken Wraps Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 wraps
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Crispy BBQ Chicken Wraps are a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Packed with tender chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, melty cheddar cheese, and crunchy coleslaw, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla, they are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Crispy BBQ Chicken Wraps:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup coleslaw mix or shredded lettuce
- 4 large flour tortillas (burrito size)
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for pan-frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Mix BBQ Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce until well coated.
- Prepare Wraps: Warm the tortillas and layer each with BBQ chicken, cheese, coleslaw mix, and ranch dressing if desired. Roll tightly into a wrap.
- Cook Wraps: Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook the wraps seam-side down until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
- Serve: Let the wraps rest, then slice in half and serve warm.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Add sliced jalapeños for extra heat, or swap ranch with blue cheese dressing for a tangy twist.
- To make it lighter, bake instead of pan-frying.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wrap
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 820 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
