Finding a meal that is quick, incredibly delicious, and approved by the entire family can be a challenge. This easy bbq chicken wrap recipe is the perfect solution for a busy weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch that feels like a treat. It combines savory shredded chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, and gooey melted cheese, all bundled in a perfectly crispy tortilla.
What truly sets this recipe apart is its incredible texture and flavor. The filling is a wonderful mix of tender chicken and sharp red onion, brightened with fresh cilantro. But the magic happens in the skillet, where the wrap is pan-fried to a beautiful golden brown, creating a crunchy exterior that rivals your favorite restaurant chimichanga, but without the extra fat from deep-frying.
If you’re looking for a dependable 30-minute meal that never disappoints, you’ve found it. This bbq chicken wrap recipe is designed for simplicity and speed, using straightforward ingredients you likely already have on hand. It’s a game-changer for anyone needing a fast and flavorful meal.
Why This Recipe is a Winner
This dish is more than just a quick meal; it’s a versatile and convenient option that fits perfectly into a busy lifestyle. The straightforward preparation makes it an ideal recipe for cooks of all skill levels.
One of the best features is the ability to prepare the filling ahead of time. Simply mix the chicken, cheese, and other ingredients in the morning, and dinner will be ready in minutes when the evening rush begins. It’s a fantastic strategy for meal prep.
Furthermore, this recipe is incredibly family-friendly. The simple, bold flavors are a hit with both adults and children. It’s also a great opportunity to get kids involved in the kitchen, as they can easily help mix the filling and assemble the wraps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this bbq chicken wrap recipe lies in its simplicity. It requires just a handful of common pantry and refrigerator staples to create a truly memorable meal. Each component is chosen to deliver maximum flavor and texture with minimal fuss.
Using a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves a significant amount of time. The combination of sharp cheddar, fresh cilantro, and crisp red onion creates a balanced and vibrant filling that perfectly complements your favorite barbecue sauce.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cooked Chicken, shredded | 2 cups |
| Shredded Cheddar Cheese | 2 cups |
| Fresh Cilantro, chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Red Onion, chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Barbecue Sauce | 1/2 cup |
| Large Flour Tortillas | 4-5 |
| Vegetable or Canola Oil | 2 Tbsp |
How to Make the Perfect BBQ Chicken Wrap
Creating these crispy wraps is a simple, two-part process: preparing the delicious filling and then pan-frying the wraps to golden perfection. Follow these steps for a flawless result every time.
- Combine the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, fresh cilantro, and your favorite barbecue sauce in a large mixing bowl.
- Toss the ingredients thoroughly until everything is evenly coated. If the mixture seems a little dry, feel free to add more BBQ sauce to reach your desired consistency.
- Layer approximately ½ cup of the chicken mixture onto the center of each large flour tortilla, keeping it in a relatively compact line.
- Roll each tortilla tightly by folding in the sides first, then rolling from the bottom up, similar to how you would fold a burrito.
- Heat the vegetable or canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough to create a sizzle before adding the wraps.
- Place the wraps seam-side down into the hot skillet. This initial step is crucial as it helps to seal the wrap, preventing it from unrolling.
- Cook the wraps for one to two minutes on each side, turning periodically until all sides are golden brown, crispy, and the filling is warmed through.
- Serve immediately while hot to enjoy the contrast between the crispy shell and the warm, cheesy filling.
Time Table & Serving Size
This recipe is designed to be fast, making it an ideal choice for a quick lunch or a hassle-free weeknight dinner.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Serving Size: Serves 4
Tips & Tricks for Success
While this bbq chicken wrap recipe is quite straightforward, a few key tips can help you elevate it from great to absolutely perfect.
- Meal Prep the Filling: To make your evening even easier, prepare the chicken filling ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to eat, simply assemble and pan-fry.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For the ultimate shortcut, use a store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s already cooked, seasoned, and tender, making the shredding process quick and easy. Any leftover cooked chicken will also work well.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: To ensure each wrap gets perfectly crispy, cook them in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the skillet can lower the temperature and cause the tortillas to steam rather than fry.
- Serve with a Simple Side: These wraps are fantastic on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of simple sides. A fresh green salad, baked sweet potato fries, or fresh-cut vegetables with dip are all excellent choices.
A Perfect Meal for Any Occasion
This crispy bbq chicken wrap recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that proves simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. It’s the kind of satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table and leaves them happy. The combination of savory chicken, melted cheese, and that irresistible crispy tortilla is hard to beat.
We encourage you to give this easy recipe a try the next time you need a quick and delicious meal. It’s bound to become a new favorite in your dinner rotation.
Have you tried this recipe? Let us know how it turned out in the comments below, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best kind of chicken to use for this recipe? Any cooked chicken works well, which makes this recipe great for using up leftovers. However, for the best flavor and convenience, a store-bought rotisserie chicken is an excellent choice. The meat is tender, juicy, and easy to shred.
Can I prepare these BBQ chicken wraps ahead of time? You can prepare the filling up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. For the best texture, it is recommended to assemble and pan-fry the wraps just before serving to ensure the tortilla is warm and crispy.
How do I get the tortilla extra crispy without deep frying? The key is to use a hot skillet with a thin layer of oil over medium-high heat. Place the wrap seam-side down first to seal it, and turn it every minute or two. This method creates a perfectly golden and crunchy exterior on all sides.
Ingredients
- Cooked Chicken, shredded: 2 cups
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups
- Fresh Cilantro, chopped: 1/4 cup
- Red Onion, chopped: 1/4 cup
- Barbecue Sauce: 1/2 cup
- Large Flour Tortillas: 4-5
- Vegetable or Canola Oil: 2 Tbsp
Instructions
- Combine the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, fresh cilantro, and your favorite barbecue sauce in a large mixing bowl.
- Toss the ingredients thoroughly until everything is evenly coated. If the mixture seems a little dry, feel free to add more BBQ sauce to reach your desired consistency.
- Layer approximately ½ cup of the chicken mixture onto the center of each large flour tortilla, keeping it in a relatively compact line.
- Roll each tortilla tightly by folding in the sides first, then rolling from the bottom up, similar to how you would fold a burrito.
- Heat the vegetable or canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough to create a sizzle before adding the wraps.
- Place the wraps seam-side down into the hot skillet. This initial step is crucial as it helps to seal the wrap, preventing it from unrolling.
- Cook the wraps for one to two minutes on each side, turning periodically until all sides are golden brown, crispy, and the filling is warmed through.
- Serve immediately while hot to enjoy the contrast between the crispy shell and the warm, cheesy filling.
Notes
- Meal Prep the Filling: To make your evening even easier, prepare the chicken filling ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to eat, simply assemble and pan-fry.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For the ultimate shortcut, use a store-bought rotisserie chicken. It's already cooked, seasoned, and tender, making the shredding process quick and easy. Any leftover cooked chicken will also work well.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: To ensure each wrap gets perfectly crispy, cook them in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the skillet can lower the temperature and cause the tortillas to steam rather than fry.
- Serve with a Simple Side: These wraps are fantastic on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of simple sides. A fresh green salad, baked sweet potato fries, or fresh-cut vegetables with dip are all excellent choices.