Pin It These BBQ Chicken Pickle Slaw Wraps are the quick dinner hero at my place when we want something bold and fresh but do not feel like working overtime in the kitchen. They bundle juicy barbecue chicken and crunchy pickle-studded slaw inside a warm tortilla for a meal that balances sweet smokiness with tang and crisp.
The day I first made these wraps, my family demolished them so fast that I had to start doubling my batch and the leftovers reheat beautifully for next day lunch which makes everyone happy.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: brings juicy, lean protein and works beautifully with bold seasoning Always choose fresh chicken that is firm to the touch and pinkish in color
- Smoked paprika: offers a subtle smokiness opt for a deep red color for best flavor
- Garlic powder and onion powder: provide savory backbone Check your spice jars for freshness the aroma should be strong and pungent
- Olive oil: helps sear the chicken for a caramelized exterior Always use extra virgin for the best taste
- BBQ sauce: gives each bite a sweet tangy punch Choose a high quality sauce without artificial flavors or opt for a smoky variety for more depth
- Green cabbage: adds crunch and freshness Look for tight heads with crisp leaves
- Carrots: bring a hint of sweetness and extra color Buy whole and shred at home for the freshest results
- Dill pickles: provide signature tang Slice them thin for the perfect bite Use refrigerated deli pickles for extra snap
- Pickle brine: enhances slaw flavor with bracing acidity A little goes a long way
- Mayonnaise or a dairy free version: adds creaminess Make sure it is chilled and fresh
- Apple cider vinegar: brightens the slaw Always shake the bottle well to incorporate mother
- Flour tortillas: act as sturdy, soft wraps Warm slightly for pliability
- Fresh cilantro or parsley: supplies an herbal finish Rinse and dry leaves well before using
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken seasoning:
- In a small bowl stir together smoked paprika garlic powder onion powder salt and pepper until well blended Press the seasoning evenly over both sides of your chicken breasts so every bite is flavorful
- Sear the chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet on medium high Once shimmering add chicken and cook for about three minutes per side until it forms a deep golden crust This locks in juices and develops a savory base for your wraps
- Bake the chicken to finish:
- Transfer chicken to a parchment lined baking tray Complete the cooking in your preheated oven for about ten to twelve minutes or until a thermometer registers 165 degrees This ensures your chicken is perfectly moist and safe to eat
- Slice and sauce the chicken:
- Let cooked chicken rest for five minutes to keep juices inside Slice thinly against the grain Toss with enough BBQ sauce to thoroughly coat each piece for maximum flavor
- Mix the pickle slaw:
- While chicken cooks combine shredded cabbage carrots sliced pickles pickle brine mayonnaise apple cider vinegar sugar salt and pepper in a large bowl Toss well so everything is evenly dressed and bright tasting
- Warm the tortillas:
- Heat tortillas individually in a dry skillet or microwave until they become soft and flexible This keeps them from tearing as you roll
- Assemble the wraps:
- Lay each tortilla flat and spread a generous layer of pickle slaw down the center Top with a pile of BBQ chicken Add fresh cilantro or parsley leaves if using
- Roll and serve:
- Fold in sides of tortilla and roll tightly Slice each wrap in half for easy eating Serve immediately to keep the slaw crisp and chicken juicy
Pin It Dill pickles are my secret weapon here The way they enliven the slaw reminds me of summer picnics with my grandfather who always snuck extra pickles into his sandwiches I can never eat just one of these wraps in a sitting
Storage Tips
Wrap leftovers tightly in foil or parchment and store in an airtight container They stay fresh in the fridge for up to two days For best results keep the slaw and chicken separate until you are ready to assemble and eat This preserves crunch
Ingredient substitutions
Swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs for a juicier filling Use rotisserie chicken to cut prep time to just ten minutes Substitute vegan mayonnaise for a plant based twist If you love extra heat use spicy pickles or add fresh sliced jalapeno
Serving suggestions
Serve these wraps with sweet potato fries kettle chips or corn on the cob For a lighter meal go with a simple side salad of baby greens and sliced radish A little hot sauce drizzled into each wrap brings an extra kick
Cultural notes
BBQ chicken inside a tortilla borrows from American barbecue and sandwich traditions marrying smoky grilled flavors with the portability of a wrap Pickle slaw riffs on classic southern coleslaw with a deli spin Great for celebrating summer holidays or year round game day feasts
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring swap cabbage for thinly sliced snap peas or radish in the slaw In autumn add a handful of shredded apple for a crisp sweetness Try homemade tortillas or local artisan wraps for a winter comfort upgrade
Pin It With bold BBQ chicken and tangy pickle slaw, these wraps deliver flavor and ease for every occasion. Make extra as they disappear fast.