When you’re craving the bold, soul-satisfying flavors of Southern fried chicken and want something portable and fun to eat, look no further than this Southern Fried Chicken Wrap with Jalapeño Slaw. It’s crispy, creamy, crunchy, spicy, and tangy—all wrapped up in a warm flour tortilla. Whether you’re planning a casual dinner, a fun meal prep session, or a game day snack, this wrap hits every note.
With marinated chicken strips fried to golden perfection, a creamy and zesty jalapeño slaw, and optional add-ons like pickles, avocado, and hot sauce, this wrap will be your new go-to for comfort food with a kick.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This wrap isn’t just a sandwich—it’s a flavor-packed handheld experience.
✅ Crispy fried chicken with just the right amount of heat
✅ Creamy jalapeño slaw for crunch and tang
✅ Quick to assemble and perfect for on-the-go meals
✅ Easily customizable with your favorite toppings and sauces
✅ Great for parties, meal prep, or a satisfying weeknight dinner
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Southern Fried Chicken
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1 lb boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into strips
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1 cup buttermilk 🥛
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1 tsp hot sauce (optional) 🌶️
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1½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
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Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Jalapeño Slaw
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2 cups shredded cabbage (green or mixed)
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½ cup shredded carrots 🥕
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1–2 jalapeños, finely sliced (deseed for less heat) 🌶️
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⅓ cup mayonnaise
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1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
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1 tsp honey 🍯
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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Optional: chopped cilantro 🌿
For Assembly
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2–4 large flour tortillas 🌯
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Dill pickle slices 🥒
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Spicy mayo or ranch dressing
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Optional: sliced avocado 🥑, extra hot sauce drizzle
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
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Mixing bowls
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Whisk
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Deep skillet or Dutch oven (for frying)
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Tongs or slotted spoon
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Paper towels
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Cutting board & sharp knife
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Measuring spoons
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Large plate or tray for dredging chicken
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Frying thermometer (optional but helpful)
Step-by-Step Instructions
🔹 1. Marinate the Chicken
Combine chicken strips with buttermilk and hot sauce in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for maximum tenderness and flavor.
Quick Tip: No buttermilk? Use regular milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let sit for 10 minutes before using.
🔹 2. Make the Jalapeño Slaw
In a bowl, whisk together mayo, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Add shredded cabbage, carrots, and jalapeños. Toss well to combine.
Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the chicken. This gives the slaw time to chill and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Want it creamier? Add a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the slaw dressing.
🔹 3. Fry the Chicken
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Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a heavy skillet to 350°F (175°C).
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In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
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Dredge the marinated chicken in the seasoned flour, pressing firmly to coat well.
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Carefully place in hot oil and fry for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.
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Drain on paper towels.
For a lighter version: You can air-fry at 400°F for 15–18 minutes or bake in a 425°F oven for 25–30 minutes.
🔹 4. Assemble the Wraps
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Warm the tortillas slightly so they’re pliable.
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Spread spicy mayo or ranch over the base.
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Add a layer of jalapeño slaw.
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Place 2–3 chicken strips on top.
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Add pickle slices, optional avocado, and an extra drizzle of hot sauce if desired.
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Fold the wrap burrito-style—tuck in the sides and roll tightly.
Wrap Hack: Toast the wrap in a skillet or panini press for a warm, golden finish.
Tips, Tricks, & Variations
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Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and wraps.
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Add cheese: Try pepper jack, cheddar, or crumbled blue cheese for a flavor boost.
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Build-your-own bar: Great for parties—set out toppings and let guests create their perfect wrap.
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Sweet meets spicy: Drizzle with hot honey before wrapping for next-level flavor.
How to Store & Reheat
Leftover Fried Chicken:
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Jalapeño Slaw:
Best enjoyed within 1–2 days. Store in the fridge in a sealed container.
Assembled Wraps:
Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Keep refrigerated and eat within 24 hours for best texture.
What to Serve With It
🍟 Side Ideas:
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Sweet potato fries or classic crinkle cuts
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Creamy mac & cheese
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Cornbread muffins
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Southern-style baked beans
🥤 Drink Pairings:
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Iced tea (sweet or unsweet)
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Lemonade or limeade
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A crisp, cold beer (try a pale ale or pilsner)
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Sparkling water with citrus slices
FAQs
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Yes, you can use rotisserie or grilled chicken strips in a pinch—just season well and skip the frying.
Q: Is this wrap spicy?
A: It has a moderate kick. Control the heat by adjusting the amount of jalapeño and cayenne, or leave them out entirely.
Q: Can I prep these ahead?
A: You can fry the chicken and make the slaw ahead. Store separately and assemble just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.
Wrap It Up & Dig In!
The Southern Fried Chicken Wrap with Jalapeño Slaw isn’t just a meal—it’s a flavor explosion. Crunchy, juicy, creamy, and spicy in every bite, this wrap is bound to become a staple in your rotation whether you’re feeding a family or making lunch for one.
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Get wrapping, and enjoy every bite! 🌯🔥🍗