Flavor-Packed BBQ Chicken Wraps: Your Ultimate Guide to Easy & Delicious Meals

Transform your mealtime with these incredibly delicious and easy-to-make BBQ Chicken Wraps! Bursting with the savory goodness of barbecue chicken, creamy ranch, crisp lettuce, tangy red onion, ripe avocado, and sharp cheddar cheese, these wraps are perfect for a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or even a picnic. Get ready to wrap up some serious flavor!

If you’re anything like me, you appreciate a meal that’s both flavorful and convenient. That’s precisely why I’m a huge fan of wraps. They offer an endless canvas for culinary creativity, allowing you to take virtually any favorite dish and transform it into a portable, handheld delight. Imagine your go-to salad, like a classic Chicken Caesar Wrap, reimagined inside a soft tortilla. It’s truly that simple – take your favorite flavors, tuck them into a tortilla, and you’ve got a fantastic lunch or dinner ready in minutes.

These BBQ Chicken Wraps are a prime example of culinary ease meeting irresistible taste. They are so straightforward to prepare that you can have them on the table in as little as 10 minutes. This makes them an absolute lifesaver for those busy weeknights when time is short, or an ideal solution for a satisfying, make-ahead lunch to take to work. Forget dull meal prep; these wraps bring excitement and zest to your midday break.

barbecue chicken wrap cut in half stacked on top of each other on a cutting board

Why These BBQ Chicken Wraps Will Be Your New Favorite

There are countless reasons to fall in love with these barbecue chicken wraps. They hit all the right notes for a perfect meal:

Unbeatable Flavor Combination: The sweet and smoky BBQ chicken pairs perfectly with the cool, creamy ranch, fresh vegetables, and sharp cheddar cheese. Every bite is a burst of contrasting yet complementary flavors.
Incredibly Quick & Easy: If your chicken is already cooked, assembling these wraps takes mere minutes. Even if you’re cooking chicken from scratch, the Instant Pot method makes it effortless.
Highly Customizable: This recipe is a fantastic starting point. You can easily adapt it to your preferences, adding or swapping ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you need a speedy weeknight dinner, a portable lunch for school or work, a delicious picnic item, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer (when cut into smaller pinwheels), these wraps fit the bill.
Crowd-Pleaser: Both kids and adults adore the familiar and comforting flavors of BBQ chicken, making these wraps a hit with everyone.

Essential Ingredients for Your BBQ Chicken Wraps

For the exact measurements and full instructions, make sure to scroll down to the bottom of the post for the COMPLETE PRINTABLE recipe card.

Tortillas: The foundation of our wraps! Large flour tortillas work best for holding all the delicious fillings. Feel free to choose your favorite variety—low-carb, whole wheat, or even flavored options like sun-dried tomato or jalapeño cheddar can add an extra layer of taste and intrigue. Just ensure they are large enough to comfortably wrap your ingredients.
Chicken: The star of the show! My personal favorite for this recipe is Instant Pot BBQ Chicken, which yields tender, flavorful shredded chicken with minimal effort. However, this recipe is incredibly flexible. You can effortlessly use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, any leftover cooked chicken you have (shredded or diced), or even freshly grilled or baked chicken breasts. The key is to have it cooked and ready to be tossed in BBQ sauce.
Barbecue Sauce: The heart of the BBQ flavor. While my Homemade Barbecue Sauce is wonderfully easy and versatile, offering a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat, a high-quality store-bought BBQ sauce works perfectly too. Choose your favorite brand and style – whether you prefer sweet, tangy, smoky, or a little spicy, it will be fantastic.
Lettuce: Adds essential crunch and freshness. Crisp varieties like romaine or iceberg are excellent, but mixed greens or even spinach can also be used for a slightly different texture and nutritional boost.
Red Onion: Provides a sharp, slightly sweet bite and a vibrant color. Slice it thinly to ensure it integrates well into the wrap without overpowering other flavors.
Sliced Tomatoes: For a juicy, fresh element. Roma tomatoes or beefsteak tomatoes sliced thinly are ideal. If you prefer, cherry or grape tomatoes halved also work wonderfully.
Avocado: Delivers a creamy texture and a dose of healthy fats. Sliced or diced avocado adds richness and a beautiful, smooth contrast to the crispier components.
Cheddar Cheese: A classic pairing with BBQ flavors. Shredded sharp or mild cheddar cheese melts slightly with the warmth of the chicken and adds a delicious tang. Other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Colby-Jack blend are also fantastic alternatives.
Ranch Dressing: The perfect creamy counterpoint to the BBQ sauce. Nothing beats the fresh taste of Homemade Ranch Dressing, but your favorite store-bought brand will also do the trick. For a bit of a kick, consider a spicy ranch!

Remember, the beauty of wraps lies in their flexibility. Feel free to get creative with your fillings and use whatever fresh ingredients and flavors you love most!

chicken wrap sliced in half on a cutting board

How to Assemble Your Irresistible BBQ Chicken Wraps

Making these wraps is a breeze, especially if you have your chicken prepared ahead of time. Follow these simple steps for a perfect, flavorful wrap every time:

Prepare Your Chicken:
- If starting from scratch using an Instant Pot: Begin by pouring 1/2 cup of water into the bottom of your Instant Pot. Place your boneless chicken breasts (usually 1 pound for 4 wraps) into the pot. Generously pour 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce over the chicken. Secure the lid and cook on high pressure for 14 minutes. Once cooked, perform a quick release of the pressure. Carefully remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and then toss it with a little more barbecue sauce until every piece is beautifully coated and juicy.
- If using pre-cooked chicken (rotisserie, leftover, grilled): Simply shred or dice your cooked chicken. In a bowl, toss the chicken thoroughly with your desired amount of barbecue sauce until it’s well coated and warmed through if preferred. This shortcut saves significant time and is equally delicious!
Assemble Your Wrap: Lay a large tortilla flat on a clean surface. The order of ingredients can make a difference in how easily the wrap folds and how well the flavors are distributed. I like to start with a layer of shredded cheddar cheese directly on the tortilla – it helps create a barrier for wetter ingredients. Next, add your fresh lettuce, followed by a drizzle of ranch dressing. Then, strategically place your sliced tomatoes, red onions, and creamy avocado. Finally, pile a generous portion of your delicious BBQ chicken in the center. Avoid overfilling, as this can make rolling difficult.
Fold and Roll: This is key to a tidy, contained wrap! First, fold in the two opposite sides of the tortilla (the left and right edges) inward over the filling, covering about an inch or two on each side. Then, starting from the bottom edge closest to you, tightly roll the tortilla upwards, like you would a burrito. Ensure you maintain tightness as you roll to keep all the fillings secure inside.
Serve and Enjoy: These wraps are absolutely at their best when served fresh. Using a sharp knife, cut each wrap in half, either straight across or diagonally, for easier eating and a beautiful presentation. Serve immediately and savor the explosion of flavors!

Recipe Tips, Tricks & Customizations

Here are some additional insights and ideas to make your BBQ Chicken Wraps even better:

Make Ahead? Yes, with a caveat: While these wraps taste phenomenal fresh, you can certainly prepare components ahead of time for quicker assembly. The cooked BBQ chicken filling can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For the freshest wraps, I recommend assembling them within a couple of hours of serving, especially due to the fresh veggies like lettuce and tomato, which can start to get a little soggy over time. If you need to prep them entirely in advance, wrap each tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. They will still taste great, even if the texture isn’t quite as crisp after several hours.
Tortilla Choices & Flavor: Don’t limit yourself to plain flour tortillas! Experiment with different flavored varieties such as sun-dried tomato, spinach, or jalapeño cheddar wraps to complement the BBQ chicken. These add an extra dimension of flavor. Remember to adjust your filling amount based on the size of your tortilla. You can also opt for smaller street-taco-sized tortillas for mini wraps, or use larger ones for a heartier meal. For those looking for healthier options, low-carb or whole wheat wraps are excellent choices.
Clever Shortcuts for Busy Days: This recipe is already fast, but you can make it even quicker!
- Rotisserie Chicken: This is your ultimate time-saver. Pick up a cooked rotisserie chicken from the grocery store, shred it, and simply toss with your favorite barbecue sauce. Dinner on the table in minutes!
- Pre-chopped Veggies: Many grocery stores offer pre-sliced onions, pre-shredded lettuce, and even pre-cut avocado. These can shave off precious minutes from your prep time.
- Store-Bought Sauce & Dressing: While homemade is fantastic, a good quality store-bought BBQ sauce and ranch dressing make this recipe incredibly accessible and fast.
Preventing Soggy Wraps: If you’re packing these for lunch, try putting the ranch dressing in a small container on the side and adding it just before eating. You can also place a layer of cheese or even a piece of deli meat between the tortilla and any wetter ingredients (like tomato or BBQ chicken) to create a moisture barrier.
Warm Tortillas: Briefly warming your tortillas in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a dry skillet makes them more pliable and less likely to crack when rolling, resulting in a perfectly snug wrap.

Delicious Variations to Try

Get creative and make these wraps truly your own with these delicious variations:

Add More Veggies: Sautéed bell peppers, grilled corn, black beans, or thinly sliced cucumbers would all be excellent additions.
Spice It Up: A dash of hot sauce in your ranch dressing, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or a few slices of jalapeño can add a welcome kick.
Different Cheeses: Explore beyond cheddar with smoked gouda, provolone, or even a sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese for a sophisticated twist.
Protein Swaps: While chicken is classic, consider using pulled pork, grilled shrimp, or even plant-based chicken alternatives for a vegetarian option.
Sauce Experimentation: Try a honey mustard drizzle instead of ranch, or a creamy chipotle sauce for a smoky, spicy kick.

What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Wraps

Just like any good sandwich, these versatile wraps pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

Berry Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing contrast to the savory wrap.
Fat Free Potato Chips: For that satisfying crunch alongside your meal.
Tomato Mozzarella Salad: A fresh and zesty salad that complements the flavors beautifully.
Fruit Skewers: Easy to eat and a healthy, sweet addition.
Coleslaw: The creamy tang of coleslaw is a classic BBQ companion and pairs perfectly.
Potato Salad: A comforting and hearty side that makes the meal more substantial.
Corn on the Cob: Especially delightful in the summer months, offering a sweet and juicy contrast.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with a vinaigrette dressing keeps the meal fresh and balanced.

hand holding a bbq chicken wrap cut in half

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use grilled chicken instead of Instant Pot chicken?

A: Absolutely! Grilled chicken (shredded or diced) works wonderfully and adds a delicious smoky flavor. Simply toss it with BBQ sauce before adding it to your wraps.

Q: How do I prevent my wraps from getting soggy?

A: To avoid sogginess, especially if making ahead, create a barrier between the tortilla and any wet ingredients. A layer of cheese or even a thin smear of cream cheese can help. Also, consider adding ranch dressing right before eating, or pack it on the side.

Q: Can these wraps be made vegetarian?

A: Yes! You can easily substitute the chicken with shredded jackfruit tossed in BBQ sauce, grilled halloumi cheese, or a plant-based chicken alternative for a delicious vegetarian version.

Q: What’s the best way to roll a wrap so it doesn’t fall apart?

A: Don’t overfill the wrap. Place the ingredients in a line down the center. Fold in the left and right sides of the tortilla over the filling, then starting from the bottom, roll it up tightly, tucking the ingredients in as you go, just like a burrito.

Q: Can I freeze BBQ chicken wraps?

A: I don’t recommend freezing fully assembled wraps due to the fresh vegetables which will become watery and mushy upon thawing. However, you can freeze the BBQ chicken filling separately. Thaw it, reheat, and then assemble fresh wraps.

More Tasty Wraps To Try

If you’ve loved these BBQ Chicken Wraps, you’ll definitely want to explore these other fantastic wrap recipes for more quick and easy meal ideas:

Crunchy Southwest Chicken Wrap: Packed with vibrant, zesty flavors and satisfying crunch.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap: A classic combination that’s always a winner.
Asian Chicken Wrap: Fresh, savory, and bursting with Asian-inspired flavors.
Honey Sesame Chicken Salad Wrap: A sweet and savory delight, perfect for a lighter meal.
Chicken Club Wrap: All the goodness of a club sandwich, neatly wrapped up.

5 from 1 vote

BBQ Chicken Wrap

By

Erin Sellin

BBQ Chicken Wrap – make meal time easy with these barbecue chicken wraps that are loaded with flavor! Barbecue chicken, cheese, red onion, lettuce, avocado and ranch make these a tasty lunch or dinner idea.

Prep:

10 minutes

Cook:

15 minutes

Additional Time:

10 minutes

Total:

35 minutes

Servings:
4

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Ingredients

Chicken

▢

1
pound

boneless chicken breasts
▢

1/2
cup
water
▢

1/2
cup

barbecue sauce

Wraps

▢

4
large flour tortillas
▢

1

avocado
, sliced
▢

1

tomato
, sliced
▢

red onion
, sliced
▢

lettuce or mixed greens
▢

1/2
cup

shredded cheddar cheese
▢

1/3
cup
ranch dressing

Instructions

If you are cooking the chicken, put water in the bottom of your Instant Pot, then place in the chicken and pour over the barbecue sauce. Cook for 14 minutes, quick release to unlock. Then remove the chicken and shred. Toss with a little more barbecue sauce, if necessary, until everything is well coated.

1 pound boneless chicken breasts,
1/2 cup water,
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
Place a large tortilla or wrap in front of you and then just layer in your ingredients. I like to start with the cheese, then lettuce, ranch dressing, tomato, onions, avocado and then top with the chicken.

4 large flour tortillas,
1 avocado,
1 tomato,
red onion,
lettuce or mixed greens,
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese,
1/3 cup ranch dressing
Fold in the sides and then tightly roll, just like a burrito.
Cut them in half and serve.

Notes

You can start with already cooked chicken (rotisserie or leftover chicken) and just toss with barbecue sauce.

Nutrition

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Author:

Erin Sellin

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cook Time:

15 minutes

Additional Time:

10 minutes

Total Time:

35 minutes

Course:
Dinner Recipes

Cuisine:
American

Servings:
4

Calories:
575

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