When it’s too hot to cook or you need a lunch ready in 5 minutes, these BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are the ultimate solution. This “No-Cook!” recipe relies on a supermarket hero: the rotisserie chicken. By combining pre-cooked chicken with a smoky BBQ sauce and a crunchy, creamy coleslaw, you create a wrap that is bursting with flavor and texture without ever turning on the stove.
It’s the perfect balance of savory, sweet, tangy, and crunchy. The BBQ sauce provides the richness, while the vinegar-based slaw cuts through it, keeping the meal feeling fresh and light. It’s ideal for meal prep, picnics, or a lightning-fast dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
100% Assembly, 0% Cooking
This recipe is all about assembly. Using a store-bought rotisserie chicken (or leftover chicken) and a bag of coleslaw mix means your knife barely even touches the cutting board. It is the definition of “fast food” made at home.
Texture & Flavor Contrast
A good wrap needs contrast. The soft tortilla holds tender, saucy chicken and crisp, cool cabbage. The interplay between the warm (or room temp) smoky meat and the cold, zesty slaw makes every bite interesting.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 0.75 cup BBQ sauce
- 3 cups coleslaw mix (cabbage/carrots)
- 0.3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 0.25 cup red onion, sliced thin
Instructions
- Mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce in a bowl.
- Whisk mayo, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Toss with coleslaw mix.
- Lay out tortillas. Place BBQ chicken in center.
- Top with coleslaw and red onions.
- Roll tightly and slice in half.
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
Rotisserie Chicken: Shredded. Use both white and dark meat for the best flavor.
BBQ Sauce: Choose a thick, rich sauce like Sweet Baby Ray’s or a honey BBQ blend.
Coleslaw Mix: A bag of shredded cabbage and carrots.
Slaw Dressing: Mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper. (Or a high-quality bottled slaw dressing).
Wraps: Large flour tortillas or whole wheat wraps.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a bit of bite.
Smart Substitutions
You can use leftover pulled pork instead of chicken for a different BBQ vibe. For a low-carb version, ditch the tortilla and use large Romaine or Butter lettuce leaves as cups. Add cheese (cheddar or gouda) if you want extra richness.
If you are looking for more no-cook or quick chicken ideas, try this High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta which also utilizes the convenience of rotisserie chicken.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Shred the rotisserie chicken, discarding the skin and bones. Place the meat in a bowl and toss with the BBQ sauce until well coated.
The Slaw: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayo, vinegar, sugar, and spices. Add the coleslaw mix and red onion. Toss to coat. Let it sit for 5 minutes if you like it softer, or use immediately for maximum crunch.
Assembly Phase
Lay out a large tortilla.
Place a generous mound of the BBQ chicken in the center.
Top with a heap of the creamy coleslaw.
The Wrap: Fold the sides of the tortilla in, then roll it up tightly from the bottom like a burrito.
Slice in half diagonally.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
Don’t Over-Sauce the Slaw: Cabbage releases water as it sits in dressing. Use just enough dressing to coat it. If it’s swimming in liquid, your wrap will get soggy and leak.
Warm the Tortilla: Even though this is “no-cook,” microwaving the tortilla for 10 seconds makes it pliable and easier to roll without cracking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Putting the slaw on the tortilla first. The dressing can make the bread soggy. Put the chicken down first as a barrier, then the slaw on top.
| Component | Flavor | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Smoky/Sweet | Tender |
| Coleslaw | Tangy/Creamy | Crunchy |
| Red Onion | Sharp | Crisp |
| Tortilla | Neutral | Soft |
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Secure the wrap with a toothpick if taking it to-go. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
Pairing Suggestions
Potato chips, pickles, or fresh fruit are classic lunch sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead?
If making for lunch boxes, store the slaw and chicken separately and assemble right before eating to prevent sogginess. Or, place a piece of dry lettuce between the tortilla and the filling as a barrier.
Is it healthy?
It’s high in protein and veggies. Use a low-sugar BBQ sauce and a whole wheat wrap to make it healthier.
Conclusion
BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are the savior of the lunch hour. Fast, fresh, and flavorful, they prove that you don’t need to cook to eat well.
