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: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/2 cup BBQ sauce; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 4 pita bread; 1 cup shredded lettuce; 1 medium tomato, diced; 1/2 cucumber, sliced; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; Optional: extra BBQ sauce for drizzling

Highlighted under: Home Cooking Recipes

I love making these spicy BBQ chicken pita wraps because they are packed with flavor and are incredibly easy to put together. The combination of tender, spicy chicken and crispy fresh veggies wrapped in a warm pita is satisfying and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a quick lunch or a fun dinner, these wraps are always a hit. Plus, I can adjust the spice level to suit my taste, making them versatile enough for everyone at the table to enjoy.

Created by

The Chefgarrettkitchen Team

Last updated on 2026-03-18T16:29:09.002Z

When I first made these spicy BBQ chicken pita wraps, I was amazed at how quickly they came together. The marinade for the chicken is a simple mix of BBQ sauce, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder, which adds depth and heat. I let the chicken soak in the flavors while I prepped the rest of the ingredients.

As I grilled the chicken, the aroma wafted through my kitchen, making my mouth water with anticipation. Each wrap is a delightful crunch of fresh veggies, and I love how the warm, fluffy pita perfectly complements the spicy chicken. This recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

A perfect balance of spice and sweetness with BBQ sauce
Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
Customizable with your favorite veggies and sauces

Ingredient Insights

The chicken breasts in this recipe serve as the perfect canvas for the spices and BBQ sauce. They need to be boneless and skinless to cook evenly and absorb all the flavors. If you're looking for a leaner option, turkey breast could also work, but be mindful that it may require a shorter cooking time to prevent dryness.

BBQ sauce not only enhances flavor but also contributes to a slightly caramelized exterior when grilled. For a more complex taste, consider using a sauce with unique ingredients like chipotle or honey, which can elevate the sweetness and smokiness of the dish. Be cautious with spicy sauces if you're sensitive to heat.

Tips for Perfect Pita Wraps

Warming the pita bread before assembling your wraps is key to making them pliable and less likely to tear. You can warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. Alternatively, wrapping them in foil and placing them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about five minutes works well, too.

When layering your wraps, consider the order of ingredients to maintain structure. Start with the lettuce to create a base that absorbs any juices from the chicken or tomatoes, preventing the pita from getting soggy. Topping with red onion adds a nice crunch and a burst of flavor, balancing the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious wraps:

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Wraps

4 pita bread
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 medium tomato, diced
1/2 cucumber, sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
Optional: extra BBQ sauce for drizzling

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your spicy BBQ chicken pita wraps:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.

Prepare the Wraps

While the chicken is resting, prepare your pita wraps. Slice the grilled chicken into strips and layer it over the pita bread with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and red onion.

Serve and Enjoy

Drizzle with additional BBQ sauce if desired, wrap tightly, and serve immediately. Enjoy your spicy BBQ chicken pita wraps!

These wraps can be enjoyed warm or cold—perfect for lunch or dinner!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as avocado or jalapeños for an extra kick.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover chicken, it can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the chicken and warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 4-5 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking, which can dry the chicken out.

Assembled wraps do not store well due to the moisture from the vegetables. If you want to prepare in advance, pack the ingredients separately and assemble just before serving. This method ensures that your pita stays fresh and the veggies retain their crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Consider serving these wraps with a side of homemade coleslaw or sweet potato fries for a complete meal. The crispiness of fries complements the tenderness of the chicken and adds a fun contrast in textures.

For a refreshing twist, incorporate avocado slices or a dollop of Greek yogurt as a garnish inside your wraps. This not only enriches the flavor but also adds a creaminess that balances the heat from the cayenne pepper. It’s a small yet impactful change that enhances the overall eating experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use tofu instead of chicken?

Yes! To make this dish vegetarian, marinate and grill firm tofu slices instead of chicken.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

→ Can I make these wraps ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and veggies in advance and assemble the wraps shortly before serving.

→ What sauce pairs well with these wraps?

Aside from BBQ sauce, ranch or a spicy aioli can also complement these wraps beautifully.