If you have been searching for a lunch or dinner option that bursts with tropical flavors and satisfying textures, the Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. Combining tender shredded chicken coated in smoky BBQ sauce with juicy pineapple tidbits, crisp veggies, and melty cheese, these wraps are a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and fresh. They come together in mere minutes, showcasing how simple ingredients can create an unbelievably delicious, crowd-pleasing meal that transports you straight to island vibes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines thanks to straightforward, everyday ingredients that each add a key note in flavor, texture, or color, making the wraps vibrant and satisfying. From the savory BBQ sauce to the fresh cilantro, every element plays a crucial role.
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Using rotisserie or grilled chicken ensures juicy, flavorful meat without extra effort.
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce: Pick your favorite variety for that delicious tangy and smoky base.
- 1 cup canned pineapple tidbits, drained: Adds a burst of tropical sweetness that perfectly complements the BBQ flavors.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese: Melts beautifully for creamy richness.
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced: Brings a subtle bite and color contrast.
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage: Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch that keeps the wrap light.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Provides an herbal brightness and vibrant green pop.
- 4 large flour tortillas: Soft, pliable wraps to hold all the tasty fillings together.
- Optional: extra BBQ sauce for drizzling: For those who love an extra saucy kick.
How to Make Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps Recipe
Step 1: Coat the Chicken in BBQ Sauce
Start by tossing the shredded chicken in your chosen BBQ sauce until every tender strand is fully coated, ensuring each bite bursts with that classic smoky-sweet flavor. This step infuses the protein with the heart of the recipe and makes assembling a breeze.
Step 2: Warm Your Tortillas
Warming the flour tortillas briefly either in a dry skillet or microwave softens them, making them flexible for wrapping. This little tip helps prevent tears and allows you to fold tight, neat wraps that hold together perfectly when you eat.
Step 3: Layer the Fillings
Spread the shredded lettuce or cabbage evenly across each warmed tortilla, then pile on the BBQ chicken mixture. Top with pineapple tidbits, thin slices of red onion, shredded cheese, and freshly chopped cilantro for a colorful and flavorful assembly that’s just waiting to be rolled up.
Step 4: Wrap It Up
Drizzle on extra BBQ sauce if you love a saucier wrap. Then fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it tightly from one end to the other, creating a compact and easy-to-handle wrap. Slice each in half to reveal your vibrant creation and make eating even more inviting.
How to Serve Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation and flavor, sprinkle additional chopped cilantro or a few pineapple tidbits on top. A wedge of lime can add a fresh citrus squeeze at the table, balancing the sweetness of the pineapple and the richness of the BBQ sauce. Simple garnishes make your wraps pop visually and taste-wise.
Side Dishes
These wraps pair beautifully with light sides such as a crisp garden salad or coleslaw for added crunch and freshness. For a heartier meal, consider pairing with sweet potato fries or grilled corn on the cob to keep the tropical BBQ theme going strong. Each side complements the wraps without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try grilling the wrapped tortillas for 1 to 2 minutes on each side to create a warm, crispy exterior that adds texture contrast and a smoky depth. Alternatively, serve deconstructed on a platter with each ingredient arranged separately so guests can build their own wraps — perfect for casual parties or family dinners!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. This way, your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps Recipe remains fresh and flavorful for a quick and delicious meal the next day.
Freezing
While these wraps are best fresh, you can freeze them wrapped tightly in foil and placed in a freezer bag for up to one month. To avoid sogginess, it’s better to freeze the chicken mixture separately and assemble fresh wraps after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in a toaster oven to keep the tortilla crisp and the cheese melted. Avoid microwaving as it can make the wrap soggy. This way, you get that satisfying texture and warm, melty filling each time.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps Recipe?
Absolutely! Cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack add a nice sharpness or spice, making the wraps more bold. Just choose a cheese that melts well to keep that creamy consistency.
Is it possible to make these wraps dairy-free?
Yes, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The wraps will still be flavorful thanks to the tangy BBQ sauce and fresh ingredients.
What can I substitute for fresh cilantro if I don’t like it?
Try fresh parsley or basil as a milder green herb substitute. Cilantro adds a unique brightness, but these options will maintain freshness without the distinctive cilantro flavor.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, prepping the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce and chopping the veggies in advance saves time. Store them separately in airtight containers and assemble the wraps when ready to serve to keep ingredients crisp.
What protein alternatives work well in this wrap?
This recipe is versatile—you can substitute pulled pork, grilled shrimp, or even tofu marinated in BBQ sauce for a tasty variation while keeping the Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps Recipe spirit alive.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about the combination of smoky BBQ chicken, sweet pineapple, and fresh veggies all embraced by a soft tortilla. The Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps Recipe delivers bold yet balanced flavors with minimal fuss, perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Give it a try and let these wraps bring a little aloha spirit to your table!
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Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 wraps
- Category: Main Course
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Hawaiian-Inspired
- Diet: Dairy-Free option
Description
These Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps combine tender shredded chicken coated in tangy BBQ sauce with sweet pineapple tidbits, fresh veggies, and melty cheese, all wrapped in a soft flour tortilla for a quick and flavorful meal. Perfect for a light lunch or easy dinner, they can be served immediately or grilled for a crispy finish.
Ingredients
Chicken Filling
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or grilled)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)
- 1 cup canned pineapple tidbits, drained
Vegetables and Cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Wraps
- 4 large flour tortillas
- Optional: extra BBQ sauce for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until each piece is evenly coated with flavor.
- Warm the tortillas: Slightly warm the tortillas using a dry skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to make them more pliable and easier to roll.
- Assemble the wraps: Lay each warmed tortilla flat on a clean surface. Start by layering shredded lettuce or cabbage evenly, then add a generous portion of the BBQ-coated chicken, followed by pineapple tidbits, red onion slices, shredded cheese, and chopped cilantro.
- Add extra sauce: If desired, drizzle additional BBQ sauce over the fillings to boost flavor and moisture.
- Roll the wraps: Carefully fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll tightly from one end to the other, enclosing all fillings securely.
- Serve or prepare to-go: Slice each wrap in half diagonally and serve immediately for a fresh meal. For portability, wrap tightly in foil. Optionally, grill the wrapped tortillas for 1-2 minutes per side to create a crispy, warm exterior before serving.
Notes
- For a crispier texture, grill the assembled wraps in a skillet or panini press for 1–2 minutes per side.
- These wraps are versatile and also work well with leftover grilled chicken or pulled pork as alternatives.
- To make a dairy-free version, omit the cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese.
- Adjust the spiciness by choosing a BBQ sauce variety that suits your taste preferences.
