If you’re craving a burst of island flavor rolled up to-go, these Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps are your ticket to a mini-vacation at lunchtime! Succulent shredded chicken coated in tangy barbecue sauce is tucked into a soft tortilla with juicy pineapple, melty cheese, crisp cabbage slaw, and a shower of fresh cilantro. Every bite is sweet, smoky, and a little bit zesty—the kind of meal that feels both vibrant and comforting. You’ve never had a lunch wrap quite like these!

Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes these Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps truly irresistible is how each simple ingredient brings its own bold personality to the table. Here’s everything you’ll gather to create the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, creamy, and crunch. No fancy shopping list or hard-to-find items—just everyday ingredients that transform into something tropical and special.
- Shredded Chicken: Perfect for soaking up barbecue sauce and delivering hearty bites; rotisserie chicken is a speedy shortcut.
- Barbecue Sauce: The flavor powerhouse; go for your favorite blend of sweet and smoky, or add a little spicy kick if you like.
- Pineapple Tidbits: Juicy bursts of sweetness that are a classic Hawaiian touch and cut through the richness of the barbecue sauce.
- Mozzarella or Monterey Jack Cheese: Both melt beautifully, adding creaminess and a bit of mild flavor; pick your favorite or use a blend.
- Shredded Red Cabbage: Vibrant color and fresh crunch, making the wraps feel light and crisp.
- Thinly Sliced Red Onion: Adds peppery bite and sharpness to balance the sweetness.
- Chopped Fresh Cilantro: Brings a hit of herbal brightness that lifts all the flavors.
- Lime Juice: Adds a splash of tang and brightness to the slaw, tying everything together.
- Large Flour Tortillas: Soft and sturdy wraps that hold all the fillings securely and make these wraps portable and satisfying.
How to Make Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps
Step 1: Mix the BBQ Chicken
Start by grabbing your cooked, shredded chicken and popping it into a big mixing bowl. Pour over your favorite barbecue sauce and stir until each strand is glossy and coated. This rich mixture is the centerpiece of your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps, delivering that delicious smoky-sweet kick in every mouthful.
Step 2: Toss the Quick Slaw
In a separate small bowl, combine the shredded red cabbage, thinly sliced red onion, fresh cilantro, and a generous splash of lime juice. Toss everything well. This isn’t just a filler! It offers brightness, crunch, and a hint of citrus that balances the savory BBQ flavors, taking your wraps to the next level.
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
For the softest, most foldable wraps, gently warm each flour tortilla. You can microwave them under a damp paper towel for about 20 seconds, or briefly heat them in a dry skillet. Soft tortillas won’t tear, making assembly so much easier (and less messy!).
Step 4: Fill and Roll the Wraps
Lay a warmed tortilla flat on your work surface. Pile 1/2 cup of the BBQ chicken mixture in the center, then layer on a spoonful of pineapple tidbits, a sprinkle of cheese, and a generous helping of your cabbage slaw. Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly (burrito style) to enclose all that tasty filling.
Step 5: Toast for Crunch (Optional)
If you love a warm, toasty wrap, add this quick step: Place each assembled wrap seam-side down in a lightly greased skillet over medium heat. Toast for 1 to 2 minutes per side, until golden and slightly crisp outside. This creates irresistible texture and helps melt the cheese—highly recommended!
How to Serve Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps

Garnishes
Top each wrap with an extra sprinkle of fresh cilantro, a few thin rings of red onion, or even a squeeze of lime juice just before serving. Want a pop of color? Try scattering some diced red bell pepper or a drizzle of spicy mayo over the top.
Side Dishes
These Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps shine when paired with tropical or classic sides. Serve alongside a simple green salad, sweet potato fries, or a crisp cucumber salad. Fresh fruit like pineapple spears or mango chunks make a refreshing, palate-cleansing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party platter, slice wraps into halves or thirds and secure with toothpicks for easy grab-and-go bites. Or make mini versions using small tortillas for picnic-ready sliders. For a tropical feast, set out bowls of extra pineapple, slaw, and sauce so everyone can customize their wrap.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra wraps, simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to two days. The flavors only get better as they mingle!
Freezing
You can freeze these wraps for later, though the slaw will lose some of its crunch upon thawing. For best results, freeze the wraps without the slaw and add it fresh after reheating. Wrap each tightly in foil or plastic, then store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, unwrap and warm the wraps in a skillet over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or pop them into a toaster oven until heated through and the exterior is lightly crisp. Microwaving also works in a pinch, but you’ll lose that lovely toasted edge.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken in Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and soaks up the barbecue sauce beautifully. Just shred, sauce, and you’re ready to roll.
What’s the best barbecue sauce for this recipe?
Go with your personal favorite! Sweet and smoky works exceptionally well with pineapple, but you can try spicy, honey, or even hickory blends—each gives the Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps a slightly different vibe.
Can I make these wraps dairy-free?
Definitely. Simply swap the cheese for a plant-based alternative or leave it out altogether. There’s plenty of flavor in the chicken, sauce, and pineapple to keep your tastebuds happy!
How do I keep tortillas from tearing?
Always warm your tortillas first to make them pliable. If you’re prepping ahead, layer damp paper towels between them and cover with foil to keep them soft until you assemble your wraps.
Are Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps good for meal prep?
Yes! They keep well in the fridge and are easy to grab for quick lunches or dinners. For the freshest texture, store the slaw separately and add it right before eating if making wraps ahead.
Final Thoughts
Give these Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps a try and watch your regular lunch routine get a whole lot more exciting! This recipe is proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients or hours in the kitchen to enjoy a bright, flavor-packed meal. They’re perfect for sharing, easy enough for weekday dinners, and guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Let your next wrap transport you straight to the islands—no plane ticket required!
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Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 wraps 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps are a delightful mix of flavors, combining tender shredded chicken in tangy barbecue sauce with sweet pineapple, gooey cheese, and a zesty slaw, all wrapped up in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients
For the BBQ Chicken:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
For the Wraps:
- 1 cup canned pineapple tidbits (drained)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 4 large flour tortillas
Instructions
- Prepare the BBQ Chicken: In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce until evenly coated.
- Make the Slaw: In a separate bowl, toss cabbage, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice to create a slaw.
- Assemble the Wraps: Warm tortillas, then layer BBQ chicken, pineapple, cheese, and slaw. Roll up tightly.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately or toast in a skillet for a crispy finish.
Notes
- For extra flavor, try grilled chicken or a drizzle of spicy mayo.
- Wraps can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days—reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (optional for toasting)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: No-Cook or Stovetop
- Cuisine: Hawaiian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wrap
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 710 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg