When the craving for BBQ hits but you want to keep things light and fresh, these BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are the ultimate solution. This recipe marries the smoky, tangy flavor of shredded BBQ chicken with the cool, creamy crunch of homemade coleslaw, all wrapped up in a crisp lettuce leaf or a low-carb tortilla.
It is a textural masterpiece—hot meat against cold slaw, soft sauce against crunchy vegetables. Perfect for a summer lunch, a light dinner, or a portable picnic meal, these wraps are high in protein, low in carbohydrates, and absolutely bursting with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The “Crunch Factor”
The problem with many wraps is they can get soggy. Here, the coleslaw provides a structural crunch that stays crisp. The cabbage holds up well against the dressing, ensuring every bite has that satisfying snap.
Instant Low-Carb Satisfaction
By ditching the hamburger bun or heavy bread, you save massive amounts of empty carbs. Using large Romaine, Butter, or Iceberg lettuce leaves makes this a keto-friendly, gluten-free meal that doesn’t feel like “diet food”—it just feels fresh.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 0.5 cup BBQ sauce (low sugar)
- 2 cups coleslaw mix (cabbage/carrots)
- 0.25 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 0.5 tsp dijon mustard
- 1 head Butter or Romaine lettuce leaves
- 2 tbsp green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce and warm gently.
- Whisk yogurt, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Toss with coleslaw mix.
- Wash and dry lettuce leaves.
- Place warm chicken in lettuce leaf, top with cold coleslaw.
- Garnish with green onions and serve immediately.
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken or poached chicken breasts work perfectly.
BBQ Sauce: Choose a low-sugar or sugar-free BBQ sauce to keep the carb count down while maintaining that smoky flavor.
Coleslaw Mix: A bag of pre-shredded cabbage and carrots saves time.
Slaw Dressing: Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of dijon mustard create a lighter, tangier dressing than mayo-heavy versions.
Wraps: Large leafy greens (Lettuce) or low-carb tortillas.
Smart Substitutions
For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños to the slaw or use a spicy BBQ sauce. If you don’t like chicken, pulled pork is the classic alternative, though usually higher in fat. To make it vegan, use jackfruit tossed in BBQ sauce and a plant-based yogurt for the slaw.
If you are looking for more fresh, wrap-style meals, check out these Mediterranean Chicken Gyros which offer a similar fresh profile.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Shred your cooked chicken. In a saucepan or microwave, warm the chicken with the BBQ sauce until heated through.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Toss the cabbage mix in the dressing until well coated. Let it sit for 5 minutes so the flavors meld.
Assembly Phase
Lay out your lettuce leaves (wash and dry them thoroughly so they aren’t slippery).
Place a generous scoop of the BBQ chicken in the center of the leaf.
Top with a heap of the cool coleslaw.
Sprinkle with green onions or cilantro.
Fold “taco style” or wrap it up and eat immediately.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
Double Leafing: If using lettuce cups, double them up (stack two leaves). This provides extra structural integrity so the wrap doesn’t tear mid-bite.
Temperature Contrast: Keep the slaw ice cold and the chicken warm. The contrast is part of the experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Over-saucing the slaw. Cabbage releases water as it sits in dressing. Use just enough dressing to coat it; otherwise, you’ll end up with a watery mess dripping down your arm.
| Component | Standard Sandwich | Lettuce Wrap |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 40g+ | ~8g |
| Calories | ~500 | ~250 |
| Vegetables | Minimal | High Volume |
| Gluten | Yes | No |
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Serve three wraps on a long platter with extra BBQ sauce for dipping. A wedge of lime adds a nice acidic finish.
Pairing Suggestions
Sweet potato fries or corn on the cob are classic BBQ sides that pair well here. For a lighter side, sliced cucumbers or fruit salad keep the meal refreshing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Prep the chicken and slaw separately. Assemble right before eating to prevent soggy lettuce.
What lettuce is best?
Butter lettuce (Bibb) is soft and pliable. Romaine is crunchy and sturdy (good for “boats”). Iceberg is the crunchiest but hardest to fold.
Is this spicy?
Only if you choose a spicy BBQ sauce!
Conclusion
BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wraps are the proof that you don’t need bread to have a satisfying sandwich. They are messy, fun, crunchy, and packed with smoky flavor—a perfect low-carb lunch staple.
