BBQ Chicken Wrap
This easy wrap comes together in about 30 minutes and delivers everything you love about barbecue chicken in one handheld meal.
Whether you’re making lunch for the family, meal prepping for the week, or searching for an easy weeknight dinner, this BBQ Chicken Wrap is always a winner. It’s packed with protein, incredibly customizable, and perfect for using leftover grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or freshly cooked chicken breasts.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how simple it is. A handful of fresh ingredients, your favorite barbecue sauce, and a large flour tortilla are all you need to create a restaurant-quality wrap at home. Every bite is filled with smoky, tangy, creamy, cheesy goodness balanced by fresh lettuce and tomatoes for the perfect texture.
Even better? These wraps can be grilled until golden brown for a crispy exterior that locks in all of the delicious fillings. Once you make them this way, you’ll never go back to plain wraps again.
Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Wrap
This wrap is quick, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.
You’ll love this recipe because:
• Ready in about 30 minutes
• Great for lunch or dinner
• High in protein
• Kid-friendly
• Easy meal prep recipe
• Perfect for leftover chicken
• Easily customizable
• Crispy toasted tortilla
• Restaurant-quality results at home
• Freezer-friendly chicken filling
• Budget-friendly ingredients
• Great for picnics and road trips
What Does a BBQ Chicken Wrap Taste Like?
Imagine tender bites of juicy chicken coated in smoky barbecue sauce with melted cheddar cheese, crunchy romaine lettuce, sweet tomatoes, crisp red onions, and creamy ranch dressing all tucked inside a warm golden tortilla.
Every bite has a balance of sweet, smoky, tangy, creamy, and savory flavors with just enough crunch from the fresh vegetables. Toasting the wrap gives it a crisp exterior while keeping the inside warm, cheesy, and perfectly melty.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Wraps
• Cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• Barbecue sauce
• Large flour tortillas
• Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• Romaine lettuce
• Tomatoes
• Red onion
• Ranch dressing
• Olive oil or cooking spray for toasting
Optional Additions
• Crispy bacon
• Corn
• Black beans
• Avocado
• Jalapeños
• Pickled onions
• Pepper Jack cheese
• Monterey Jack cheese
• Cilantro
• Green onions
The Best Chicken to Use
This recipe is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for whatever chicken you already have on hand.
Great options include:
• Rotisserie chicken
• Leftover grilled chicken
• Oven baked chicken breasts
• Smoked chicken
• Pulled chicken
• Air fryer chicken
• Sheet pan chicken
• Instant Pot shredded chicken
Rotisserie chicken is one of my favorite shortcuts because it saves time while still creating a flavorful wrap that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
The Best BBQ Sauce
The barbecue sauce is what gives this wrap its signature flavor, so choose one you love.
Popular varieties include:
• Sweet Honey BBQ
• Hickory Smoked BBQ
• Kansas City Style
• Memphis Style
• Spicy BBQ
• Chipotle BBQ
• Brown Sugar BBQ
• Bourbon BBQ
• Carolina Gold
• Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce
For even more flavor, stir a little ranch seasoning into your barbecue sauce before tossing it with the chicken.
The Best Cheese
Cheese makes these wraps extra creamy and delicious.
My favorites include:
• Sharp Cheddar
• Mild Cheddar
• Pepper Jack
• Monterey Jack
• Colby Jack
• Mozzarella
• Smoked Gouda
Sharp cheddar pairs especially well with smoky barbecue flavors.
The Best Tortillas
Large burrito-size flour tortillas work best because they hold all the fillings without falling apart.
Other great options include:
• Whole wheat tortillas
• Spinach wraps
• High-protein tortillas
• Low-carb tortillas
• Gluten-free tortillas
Warm the tortillas for about 15 seconds before assembling to make rolling much easier.
Caraway Sheet Pan Recommendation
One of my favorite ways to prepare the chicken for these wraps is on my Caraway Sheet Pan. The naturally slick ceramic-coated surface allows the chicken to roast beautifully with very little oil while making cleanup incredibly easy. The sturdy construction promotes even browning, helping the chicken stay juicy on the inside while developing delicious caramelized edges on the outside. If you’re cooking extra chicken for meal prep, the generous size of the sheet pan lets you roast several chicken breasts at once without overcrowding. It’s become one of my go-to kitchen tools whenever I’m making wraps, salads, bowls, or weekly meal prep because everything cooks evenly and releases effortlessly.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Wraps
Step 1
Preheat the oven if cooking fresh chicken, or warm leftover chicken until heated through.
Step 2
Toss the chicken with your favorite barbecue sauce until evenly coated.
Step 3
Warm the tortillas slightly to make them easier to roll.
Step 4
Lay each tortilla flat.
Step 5
Add lettuce first.
Step 6
Top with barbecue chicken.
Step 7
Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 8
Add tomatoes and red onions.
Step 9
Drizzle with ranch dressing.
Step 10
Fold in the sides and tightly roll into a wrap.
Step 11
Toast in a skillet until both sides are crispy and golden brown.
Step 12
Slice in half and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken Wrap
• Warm your tortillas before rolling.
• Don’t overfill the wraps.
• Toast both sides until golden.
• Let the chicken cool slightly before adding lettuce.
• Freshly shred your own cheese for better melting.
• Use freshly chopped romaine for maximum crunch.
• Pat tomatoes dry before adding.
• Allow the wraps to rest for one minute before slicing.
• Use a serrated knife for clean cuts.
• Wrap tightly so the fillings stay inside.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Using cold tortillas
• Adding too much barbecue sauce
• Overstuffing the wrap
• Skipping the toasting step
• Using watery tomatoes
• Forgetting to season the chicken
• Rolling too loosely
• Using pre-shredded cheese if possible
• Cutting immediately without letting the cheese settle
• Cooking on heat that’s too high
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Wraps
These wraps are filling enough to enjoy on their own, but pairing them with a simple side turns them into a complete meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, game day, or entertaining.
Some of my favorite side dishes include:
• Sweet potato fries
• Air fryer French fries
• Cottage cheese chips
• Coleslaw
• Macaroni and Cheese
• Pasta salad
• Fresh fruit salad
• Watermelon slices
• Pickle spears
• Corn on the cob
• Roasted broccoli
• Grilled zucchini
• Caesar salad
• Garden salad
• Potato wedges
• Baked beans
• Cucumber salad
• Fresh veggie tray
• Tortilla chips and salsa
• Homemade ranch dip
Delicious Variations
One of my favorite things about this BBQ Chicken Wrap recipe is how easy it is to customize depending on what you have in your refrigerator.
BBQ Bacon Chicken Wrap
Add crispy bacon and extra cheddar cheese for an even heartier wrap.
BBQ Ranch Chicken Wrap
Mix ranch dressing directly into the barbecue chicken before assembling for an extra creamy filling.
Spicy BBQ Chicken Wrap
Add sliced jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, and your favorite hot sauce.
Southwest BBQ Wrap
Mix in black beans, roasted corn, avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime.
Buffalo BBQ Wrap
Combine equal parts buffalo sauce and barbecue sauce for a smoky, spicy twist.
Hawaiian BBQ Wrap
Add grilled pineapple and mozzarella cheese for a sweet and savory combination.
Crispy Chicken BBQ Wrap
Use crispy chicken tenders instead of grilled chicken for a restaurant-style version everyone will love.
Low Carb BBQ Chicken Wrap
Swap traditional tortillas for low-carb wraps or serve everything over chopped romaine lettuce as a BBQ chicken salad.
High Protein BBQ Chicken Wrap
Use high-protein tortillas, extra grilled chicken, reduced-fat cheddar cheese, and Greek yogurt ranch dressing for an easy protein boost.
Meal Prep BBQ Wrap
Prepare all the ingredients ahead of time and assemble fresh throughout the week for the best texture.
Storage
If you have leftovers, they store surprisingly well with a few simple tips.
Store assembled wraps tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For the freshest texture, store the vegetables separately and assemble just before serving.
Reheating
Warm leftover wraps in a skillet over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes per side until heated through and crispy again.
You can also use an air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 5 minutes.
Avoid microwaving if possible since the tortilla can become soft and chewy.
Can I Freeze BBQ Chicken Wraps?
Yes! The barbecue chicken filling freezes beautifully.
Allow the cooked chicken mixture to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and assemble fresh wraps when ready to enjoy.
I don’t recommend freezing fully assembled wraps with lettuce and tomatoes since the vegetables lose their crisp texture after thawing.
Make Ahead Tips
This recipe is ideal for meal prep.
Here are my favorite ways to prepare everything ahead of time:
• Cook the chicken up to 4 days ahead.
• Chop the lettuce and vegetables in advance.
• Shred the cheese ahead of time.
• Mix the barbecue chicken and refrigerate until needed.
• Store each ingredient separately.
• Assemble right before serving for maximum freshness.
• Toast the wraps just before eating.
Tips & Tricks for the Best BBQ Chicken Wrap
These simple tricks make a big difference in flavor and texture.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest melt.
• Toast the wraps seam-side down first to keep them tightly sealed.
• Let the barbecue chicken cool for 2 to 3 minutes before assembling to keep the lettuce crisp.
• Pat tomatoes dry with a paper towel to prevent soggy wraps.
• Warm tortillas for a few seconds in the microwave so they roll without cracking.
• Use a large burrito-size tortilla for easier rolling.
• Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even distribution.
• Don’t overload the wrap or it will be difficult to roll.
• A cast iron or nonstick skillet creates the crispiest golden exterior.
• Brush the outside of the tortilla lightly with olive oil for an extra crispy finish.
• Fresh romaine provides the best crunch.
• Add avocado just before serving to keep it from browning.
• Slice the wrap diagonally for a beautiful presentation.
• Let the wrap rest for one minute after toasting so the cheese sets slightly.
• Serve with extra barbecue sauce or ranch for dipping.
Meal Prep Tips
These wraps are one of my favorite meal prep lunches because the ingredients can be mixed and matched all week.
• Roast several chicken breasts at once.
• Portion the chicken into individual containers.
• Store chopped vegetables separately.
• Keep dressing separate until serving.
• Assemble fresh each day.
• Toast immediately before eating.
• Freeze extra cooked chicken for future wraps.
Is This Recipe Healthy?
This BBQ Chicken Wrap can absolutely fit into a balanced lifestyle.
Chicken breast provides lean protein to help keep you satisfied, while fresh vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and crunch. Choosing a whole wheat or high-protein tortilla can increase fiber and protein, while using a lighter ranch dressing helps reduce calories without sacrificing flavor.
Weight Watchers Tips
If you’re following Weight Watchers, here are a few easy swaps.
• Use grilled skinless chicken breast.
• Choose low-carb or high-fiber tortillas.
• Use reduced-fat cheddar cheese.
• Measure your barbecue sauce.
• Use light ranch dressing or Greek yogurt ranch.
• Add extra lettuce and vegetables.
• Skip bacon or use turkey bacon.
• Load up on tomatoes and onions for extra volume.
High Protein Tips
Want even more protein? Try these simple additions.
• Double the chicken.
• Use high-protein tortillas.
• Add extra reduced-fat cheddar.
• Mix cottage cheese into the ranch dressing.
• Add Greek yogurt to the barbecue sauce mixture.
• Serve with cottage cheese on the side.
• Pair with a protein shake after your workout.
More Recipes to Try
If you loved this BBQ Chicken Wrap, here are a few more easy recipes from the blog you’ll want to make next.
• Chicken Caesar Wrap
• Buffalo Chicken Wrap
• Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap
• Chicken Shawarma Wrap
• Chicken Salad Wrap
• Dessert Recipes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best chicken for BBQ Chicken Wraps?
Rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, baked chicken breasts, shredded chicken, or leftover barbecue chicken all work wonderfully.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Store the ingredients separately and assemble just before serving for the freshest texture.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken is one of the easiest and fastest options.
What cheese melts best?
Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, and mozzarella are all excellent choices.
Can I make these spicy?
Yes. Add sliced jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, chipotle barbecue sauce, or your favorite hot sauce.
What tortillas work best?
Large burrito-size flour tortillas are easiest to roll, but whole wheat, spinach, gluten-free, or high-protein tortillas also work well.
Can I use leftover grilled chicken?
Definitely. Leftover grilled chicken is one of the best ways to make this recipe even quicker.
How do I keep the wrap from getting soggy?
Pat the tomatoes dry, allow the chicken to cool slightly before assembling, keep the dressing light, and toast the wrap before serving.
Can I freeze the wraps?
The cooked barbecue chicken freezes well for up to 3 months. For the best texture, assemble the wraps fresh after thawing the chicken.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes. The sweet, smoky barbecue flavor is usually a hit with kids, and you can easily customize the fillings to suit everyone’s preferences.
BBQ Chicken Wrap
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded or diced
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
- 4 large burrito-size flour tortillas
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ¼ cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray
Instructions
- Toss the cooked chicken with the barbecue sauce until evenly coated.
- Warm the tortillas for 10 to 15 seconds until soft.
- Lay the tortillas flat on a clean work surface.
- Divide the lettuce evenly among the tortillas.
- Add the barbecue chicken.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Top with tomatoes and red onion.
- Drizzle with ranch dressing.
- Fold in the sides and roll tightly.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly coat with olive oil.
- Toast each wrap for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Slice in half and serve warm with extra barbecue sauce or ranch for dipping.
