Crispy BBQ Chicken Wraps Coleslaw

Few things disappear faster in my house than these crispy BBQ chicken wraps with creamy coleslaw They are pure comfort food made even better with golden sweet potato fries on the side from your air fryer The balance of smoky chicken tangy slaw and crunchy vegetables wrapped in a warm toasted tortilla makes for a meal that is both deeply satisfying and easy enough for a hectic weeknight

These wraps rescued my weeknight dinners when I first tried them on a whim They were so good I ended up making a double batch just for leftovers and everyone wanted second helpings

Ingredients

• Chicken breast: stays juicy when cooked correctly and has plenty of protein Always go for firm plump pieces with no odors
• Sea salt and black pepper: for all the basic flavor depth use freshly ground for better taste
• Garlic powder: adds aromatic backbone can use minced fresh garlic if you prefer a sharper kick
• Smoked paprika: brings that subtle smoky BBQ vibe Spanish smoked paprika gives the deepest aroma
• BBQ sauce: coats the chicken in a sweet tangy goo pick a sugar-free version for a lighter option and check label for real tomato base
• Avocado oil or any cooking spray: helps crisp up the chicken with less grease choose a spray with minimal additives
• Coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage: crispness is key I like a mix with red and green cabbage and carrot
• Red onion: brings bold sharpness and color choose small firm bulbs for best flavor
• Avocado oil mayo or Greek yogurt: makes the coleslaw rich and creamy avocado oil mayo is extra smooth
• Lemon juice: adds bright acidity to balance out creamy textures Fresh lemons are best for the juiciest kick
• Honey or agave syrup: a touch of sweetness rounds out the slaw’s tang raw honey has the fullest flavor
• Dijon mustard: pops with a zippy edge Dijon is classic but yellow mustard works in a pinch
• Flour tortillas: soft pliable texture perfect for wrapping up all the fillings Whole wheat or gluten-free versions work just as well
• Spinach or mixed greens: adds fresh crunch and color I tend to use spinach for its mellow taste and boost of vitamins
• Sweet potato: naturally sweet and crisps up beautifully in the air fryer Look for firm orange potatoes with tight skin
• Cornstarch (optional): it makes fries extra crispy A light dusting goes a long way

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Butterfly chicken breasts so they are even in thickness and pat dry with paper towels Mix sea salt black pepper garlic powder and smoked paprika together then rub all sides of the chicken thoroughly Let it rest while preheating your pan

Cook the Chicken:

Spray a nonstick pan lightly with avocado oil and set over medium heat Once hot add the chicken in a single layer Cook without moving for at least 4 minutes to create a golden crust before flipping Cook another 4 minutes on the other side

Brush and Finish Chicken:

Brush both sides with BBQ sauce generously Lower heat and continue cooking for another 4 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and juicy Remove from pan and slice into thin strips against the grain

Make the Coleslaw:

Grab a large mixing bowl and add the coleslaw mix finely chopped red onion avocado oil mayo lemon juice honey and Dijon mustard Toss everything very well for an even creamy coating Season to taste and let it rest so flavors blend

Crisp the Sweet Potato Fries:

Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit Peel and cut sweet potato into thin wedges Toss the wedges with avocado oil a sprinkle of sea salt a little smoked paprika and garlic powder plus cornstarch if using Spread fries in a single layer and air fry for 8 to 10 minutes shaking halfway through for even crisping

Assemble the Wrap:

Warm tortillas in a clean pan or microwave just until pliable Lay a tortilla flat add a bed of fresh spinach then a scoop of creamy coleslaw and a pile of BBQ chicken strips Fold in the sides and roll tightly

Toast the Wrap:

Place assembled wraps seam side down into a dry pan over medium heat Toast each side for 2 to 3 minutes until deeply golden and crispy

The smoked paprika in this recipe is my kitchen MVP It adds so much smoky depth you would swear the chicken was done on a grill My favorite memory is making these for a summer picnic and the wraps getting devoured before I even finished setting out the drinks

Storage Tips

Wrap leftovers tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to three days Reheat in a skillet to keep them crisp If you want to freeze wrap them in parchment then foil and store for up to two months Reheat straight from the freezer in a hot pan

Ingredient Substitutions

Chicken thighs work just as well and offer even more juiciness Greek yogurt adds protein and tang in the slaw Gluten free or whole wheat tortillas are a perfect swap and kale or arugula bring a peppery twist to the greens

Serving Suggestions

Serve these wraps with your fresh air fried sweet potato fries or a crisp garden salad Add sliced pickles or jalapeños for an extra kick I also like to offer extra BBQ sauce and a squeeze of fresh lime on the side

Cultural Context

The BBQ chicken wrap is a great example of American comfort food that fuses Southern barbecue with the wrap trend It captures that backyard barbecue feeling with the portability of a classic wrap

Seasonal Adaptations

Use fresh corn kernels or grilled zucchini in the summer Swap sweet potatoes for roasted butternut squash in the fall Load up extra greens like spinach or baby arugula in the spring

Quick Notes

Breaded chicken can be used for extra crunch You can meal prep all parts ahead and assemble just before eating Slaw is best when made at least thirty minutes before serving

Success Stories

A friend made these for a game night gathering and said everyone asked for the recipe I personally love packing the wraps for road trips They hold up perfectly and are always a hit

Freezer Meal Conversion

Let the cooked BBQ chicken and sweet potato fries cool completely Before assembling wraps layer chicken and slaw on tortillas wrap tightly and freeze in parchment and foil To serve reheat wraps in a dry pan over medium heat until crispy and warmed through

With just a bit of planning these BBQ chicken wraps bring both comfort and unbeatable crunch to any meal They are sure to join your weeknight rotation

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of chicken works best for these wraps?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for easy slicing and quick cooking, providing a juicy texture when seasoned and pan-seared.

→ Can I substitute the BBQ sauce?

Yes, you can use your favorite homemade or store-bought BBQ sauce, or try a sugar-free variety for a healthier option.

→ Is there an alternative to flour tortillas?

Whole wheat, gluten-free, or even large lettuce leaves can be used as healthy substitutes for flour tortillas.

→ How can I make the coleslaw lighter?

Swap regular mayo for Greek yogurt or a light mayonnaise to reduce calories while maintaining a creamy consistency.

→ How do I achieve extra crispy sweet potato fries?

Tossing sweet potato wedges with cornstarch and air frying at a high temperature ensures a crispy outer layer and soft interior.