Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps - Tastes Better From Scratch

Are you craving a taste of the tropics with a homemade touch? Look no further than these incredible Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps! Forget the takeout; we're bringing you a recipe that's not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly satisfying to make from scratch. Get ready for a delicious journey to paradise with every bite!

Why "From Scratch" Makes All the Difference

While store-bought sauces and pre-cooked chicken can be convenient, crafting your Hawaiian BBQ sauce and cooking your chicken fresh elevates this dish to a whole new level. You'll have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring a healthier and more flavorful meal free from unwanted additives. Plus, there's an undeniable satisfaction in creating something truly delicious with your own hands!

Ingredients You'll Need:

For the Hawaiian BBQ Chicken:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Homemade Hawaiian BBQ Sauce:

1 cup pineapple juice
1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
1/4 cup ketchup
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (slurry)

For the Wraps & Toppings:

12 large flour tortillas
1 cup shredded red cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1 ripe avocado, sliced
Pineapple salsa (store-bought or homemade)
Extra BBQ sauce for drizzling (optional)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Hawaiian BBQ Sauce:

In a medium saucepan, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the brown sugar is dissolved.
Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Whisk in the cornstarch slurry and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Cook the Hawaiian BBQ Chicken:

Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Drain any excess liquid from the skillet.
Pour about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of the prepared Hawaiian BBQ sauce over the cooked chicken, stirring to coat evenly. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors. Keep warm.

3. Assemble Your Wraps:

Warm the tortillas according to package directions (microwave, oven, or skillet).
Lay out a warm tortilla.
Spoon a generous amount of the Hawaiian BBQ chicken onto the center of the tortilla.
Top with shredded red cabbage, shredded carrots, cilantro, green onions, and avocado slices.
Add a dollop of pineapple salsa if desired.
Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly from the bottom.
Serve immediately and enjoy your taste of the islands!

Tips for Perfection:

Marinate for More Flavor: For an even deeper flavor, you can marinate the chicken in some of the BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) before cooking.
Spice It Up: If you love heat, increase the red pepper flakes in the sauce or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the finished wraps.
Veggie Variety: Feel free to customize your wraps with other fresh vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or cucumber.
Grill Option: For a smoky flavor, you can grill the chicken instead of pan-frying it, then toss with the BBQ sauce.

These Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wraps are a perfect weeknight dinner, a fantastic meal prep option, or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering. With fresh ingredients and that irresistible homemade Hawaiian BBQ sauce, you'll agree that they truly do taste better from scratch!