Spicy BBQ Chicken Pita Wraps

Name: Spicy BBQ Chicken Pita Wraps
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1/2 cup spicy BBQ sauce; 4 whole wheat pita breads; 1 cup lettuce, shredded; 1/2 cup tomatoes, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Fast Food | Quick Meals

I absolutely love making Spicy BBQ Chicken Pita Wraps for a quick and satisfying meal. The combination of tender chicken coated in zesty BBQ sauce, fresh veggies, and soft pita is simply irresistible. Whenever I have leftover chicken, I whip up these wraps, and they never fail to impress. It's an easy recipe that delivers on flavor while being perfect for lunch or dinner. Plus, the colorful ingredients make it a feast for the eyes too!

Created by

The Chefericcooks Team

Last updated on 2026-03-09T23:27:23.602Z

When I first tried making Spicy BBQ Chicken Pita Wraps, I was amazed at how quickly they came together. I was challenged to use up some leftover chicken, and throwing together this wrap was a game changer. The key is to let the chicken marinate for a bit in the spicy BBQ sauce to infuse it with flavor before grilling it.

What really elevates these wraps is the use of fresh veggies. Crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes balance the spicy BBQ flavors perfectly. I recommend adding a sprinkle of feta cheese for an extra layer of creaminess that pairs well!

You'll Love This Recipe Because

Deliciously spicy BBQ flavor that tantalizes the taste buds
Fresh veggies add a satisfying crunch
Quick and easy to assemble, perfect for busy weeknights

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the shredded chicken in the spicy BBQ sauce is crucial for enhancing its flavor. Allowing it to sit for at least 10 minutes gives the sauce time to penetrate the meat, making each bite a burst of zesty goodness. If you're short on time, even a quick 5-minute marinate can add a noticeable kick, but true flavor lovers will benefit from allowing the chicken to marinate longer, even up to an hour if possible. This not only increases the taste but also the moisture level, ensuring your wraps are juicy.

Consider the balance of flavors in your BBQ sauce as well. Store-bought options can vary significantly in heat and sweetness. If you prefer a more personalized touch, you can mix your favorite sauce with extras like honey for sweetness, garlic powder for depth, or hot sauce for an extra kick. Just be careful with the proportions; you don’t want to overpower the chicken.

Choosing Your Wraps

While whole wheat pita breads are a healthier choice, feel free to experiment with different types of pitas or flatbreads that might be available. For a gluten-free option, consider using corn tortillas or gluten-free pitas, which can add a different texture and flavor to your meal. Be sure they are soft; sometimes warming them a bit longer or using steamer wraps can help achieve that soft, pliable consistency essential for wrapping.

Presentation adds to the meal experience, so you may want to consider cutting the pitas into halves or quarters, depending on your serving size. Smaller wraps can be great for parties or family gatherings, making it easier for guests to enjoy individual portions without waste.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

You can customize these pita wraps in countless ways. For extra creaminess, adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream on top elevates the dish. If you're feeling adventurous, a drizzle of sriracha or hot honey can complement the BBQ flavor beautifully while satisfying heat lovers. Don't forget to incorporate seasonal vegetables as well—sliced bell peppers or cucumber can introduce additional crunch and flavor.

For a complete meal, serve your Spicy BBQ Chicken Pita Wraps with a side of sweet potato fries or a light coleslaw. This not only rounds out the meal but adds contrast in both texture and flavor. Leftover wraps can also be stored in the fridge and are delicious cold, making them a fantastic option for a quick lunch the next day.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1/2 cup spicy BBQ sauce

For the Wraps

4 whole wheat pita breads
1 cup lettuce, shredded
1/2 cup tomatoes, diced
1/4 cup red onion, sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)

Combine all the ingredients to create your wraps comfortably.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the spicy BBQ sauce. Mix well and let it marinate for about 10 minutes.

Warm the Pitas

While the chicken is marinating, heat the pitas in a pan over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until soft.

Assemble the Wraps

Once the chicken is marinated, distribute it evenly onto each pita. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced red onion, and a sprinkle of feta cheese if desired.

Serve

Fold the pitas in half and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious Spicy BBQ Chicken Pita Wraps!

These wraps are great to customize with your favorite toppings or sauces.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for more crunch and flavor!

Storage Tips

If you have any leftover prepared chicken, make sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should keep for 3-4 days, allowing you to whip up quick lunches or dinners. However, I suggest waiting to assemble your wraps until you're ready to eat to avoid sogginess, especially if you’ve added veggies. Prepare all components separately and simply combine when you’re ready to enjoy.

For longer storage, consider freezing the marinated chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible, and it can last up to 3 months. When you're ready to use it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then warm it gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your wraps are becoming soggy, this often means the chicken is too wet when added to the pita. Make sure to drain any excess BBQ sauce before assembling. A good tip is to layer the lettuce first on the pita, which acts as a barrier to keep the bread from absorbing too much moisture from the chicken or other toppings.

Another common issue is unevenly heated pitas. If using a pan, ensure your heat is set to medium to avoid burning. Alternatively, you can wrap the pitas in foil and warm them in the oven. This method allows for even heating and keeps them soft, preventing them from getting too crispy or hard, which can make wrapping difficult.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for meal prepping or gatherings. Simply increase the amount of chicken and sauce proportionally. For example, if you double the chicken, be sure to use the same ratio of BBQ sauce for consistent flavor throughout. Just ensure your mixing bowl is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients without making a mess.

When planning for larger groups, consider setting up a wrap station. Lay out all your toppings—chicken, veggies, sauces—and let everyone customize their pita wraps. This not only keeps things fun and interactive but also allows for dietary preferences, ensuring there's something delicious for everyone.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How spicy are these wraps?

The spice level depends on the BBQ sauce used. You can adjust it by choosing a milder or hotter sauce.

→ Can I prepare these wraps in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and chop the veggies ahead of time. Just assemble the wraps when you’re ready to eat.

→ What can I serve with these wraps?

These wraps pair well with a side of sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or even some chips.