Spicy BBQ Chicken Pita Wraps

Name: Spicy BBQ Chicken Pita Wraps
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1/2 cup BBQ sauce; 4 pita breads; 1 cup lettuce, shredded; 1/2 cup tomatoes, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Home Cooking

I absolutely love making Spicy BBQ Chicken Pita Wraps, especially on busy weeknights. This recipe combines tender chicken with bold barbecue flavors and crisp veggies, all wrapped up in soft pita bread. It’s a hand-held meal that’s not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. The contrast of spices and fresh ingredients makes each bite delightful, and you can customize them with your favorite toppings. Let's dive into this zesty, cheerful recipe that will surely become a family favorite!

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-02-15T16:10:19.007Z

When I first created these Spicy BBQ Chicken Pita Wraps, it was a last-minute dinner idea that turned into a family favorite. I marinated the chicken in a bold barbecue sauce, then grilled it to perfection, which infused an irresistible smokiness. The key is to not overcook the chicken to keep it juicy!

We served our wraps with a rainbow of crunchy veggies and a drizzle of yogurt dressing, which balanced the spices beautifully. This simple combination emphasizes the flavors and textures, ensuring everyone at the table would enjoy every last bite.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Juicy chicken infused with spicy barbecue sauce
Fresh, crunchy veggies add a vibrant texture
Quick and easy to make for any occasion

      

Preparing the Chicken

When selecting chicken for this recipe, cooked rotisserie chicken is a convenient option, saving you time on preparation. If you prefer to cook your own, consider poaching boneless chicken breasts for a moist texture. Cook them in simmering water with aromatics like garlic and onion for about 15-20 minutes, then shred once cool. The goal is to infuse the chicken adequately with BBQ sauce, resulting in a juicy and flavorful filling.

Allow the chicken to marinate in the BBQ sauce for at least 10 minutes. This not only enhances the flavor, but it also allows the chicken to absorb moisture, making it tender. If you have time, marinate it for up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator for even more robust flavor. Use a high-quality BBQ sauce for maximum impact; look for ones with a bold flavor profile that matches your spice tolerance.

Customizing Your Wraps

The beauty of Spicy BBQ Chicken Pita Wraps lies in their adaptability. You can easily substitute the veggies according to your preferences or seasonal availability. For example, bell peppers add a sweet crunch, while avocado can offer creaminess and healthy fats. If you enjoy some heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the chicken mixture for an extra kick.

For those observing dietary restrictions, this recipe can easily be adapted. Use gluten-free pita or wrap options if you need a gluten-free meal. For a lower-carb alternative, serve the BBQ chicken on lettuce leaves instead of pita. Additionally, if you want a dairy-free dressing, replace Greek yogurt with a plant-based option like coconut yogurt, ensuring to adjust seasonings accordingly.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Spicy BBQ Chicken Pita Wraps:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
4 pita breads
1 cup lettuce, shredded
1/2 cup tomatoes, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let's move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to assemble your delicious wraps:

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until evenly coated. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Prepare the Sauce

In another bowl, mix the Greek yogurt and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This will serve as a refreshing dressing for the wraps.

Assemble the Pitas

Warm the pita breads in a skillet for about a minute on each side. Fill each pita with the BBQ chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, and cucumber.

Add the Dressing

Drizzle the yogurt dressing over the fillings in each pita, then gently fold them over. Secure with a toothpick if necessary.

Serve

Enjoy the wraps fresh and warm, accompanied by extra BBQ sauce or your favorite sides.

Your Spicy BBQ Chicken Pita Wraps are ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables or tofu for a vegetarian option. Experiment with different BBQ sauces to find your perfect flavor!

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the assembled wraps in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, to maintain the best texture, consider storing the chicken and veggies separately from the pita. Reheat the chicken mixture in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes, to avoid drying it out. Warm pitas separately in a dry skillet or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave briefly to refresh them.

For longer storage, you can freeze the BBQ chicken mixture for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. When freezing, ensure it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. Avoid freezing the pitas as they tend to become soggy upon thawing. Instead, prepare fresh pita breads when you’re ready to enjoy the wraps again.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your meal, consider serving these wraps with side dishes that complement the flavors. A simple coleslaw made with shredded cabbage and a tangy vinaigrette can add a nice crunch and contrast to the richness of the BBQ chicken. Alternatively, a light cucumber salad with a drizzle of olive oil and vinegar can refresh your palate between bites.

For those who love a variety of flavors, set up a toppings bar with additional options like sliced jalapeños, pickled red onions, or even diced pineapple for a sweet and spicy combination. This way, each family member can customize their wrap to their liking, making it not only a delicious meal but also an interactive dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and works perfectly in this recipe.

→ What can I replace the pita with?

You can use tortillas or lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative.

→ How can I make these wraps spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the BBQ sauce for some extra heat.

→ Can I make these in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and veggies beforehand and assemble the wraps just before serving.