When the weekend rolls around and the weather beckons for outdoor grilling, there’s nothing quite like the mouthwatering scent of BBQ chicken cooking away. I remember the first time I made BBQ Chicken Quesadillas; I wanted to create a dish that combined that smoky, tender goodness with a cheesy, crispy joy. My family fell in love with these delightful quesadillas, and they quickly became a staple in our home.
These BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are not just a fantastic way to use leftover chicken; they’re all about convenience, flavor, and versatility. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a quick dinner that’s guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Plus, they cater to various dietary preferences—substituting chicken with black beans or grilled veggies makes it perfect for vegetarians too! Ready to unveil your new favorite comfort food? Let’s make some irresistible BBQ Chicken Quesadillas!
Why are BBQ Chicken Quesadillas a must-try?
Convenience: With just a handful of ingredients, these quesadillas are quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Fusion: The smoky BBQ chicken and gooey cheese create a winning combination that delights the taste buds.
Customizable: Easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences, whether it’s adding vegetables or choosing a different sauce.
Family-friendly: These quesadillas are a hit with both kids and adults, making them an ideal choice for family meals.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze for future snacking or quick lunches. Pair with a refreshing salad or Coconut Peach Chicken for a complete meal!
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Ingredients
For the Quesadillas
• Cooked Chicken – Provides the main protein and bulk; using rotisserie chicken can save you prep time.
• BBQ Sauce – Adds smoky sweetness and moisture; adjust the quantity to your taste preferences.
• Shredded Cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack) – Contributes creaminess and flavor; feel free to substitute with mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist.
• Flour Tortillas (8-inch) – Acts as the outer layer, securely holding all the delicious filling together.
• Red Onion (optional) – Adds a delightful crunch and flavor; can be replaced with other sweet or spicy onion varieties.
• Butter or Oil – Used for cooking to achieve that perfect crispy exterior.
For Optional Toppings
• Jalapeños – Adds a spicy kick that enhances the overall flavor profile of your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas.
• Cilantro – Brings a fresh touch to your dish; sprinkle it on just before serving for a burst of color.
• Green Onions – Enhances flavor and presentation with their mild taste; chop finely for an extra crunch.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
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Mix: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken with BBQ sauce until every piece is evenly coated. Make sure to adjust the amount of sauce based on your taste preference for that perfect smoky sweetness.
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Assemble: Place one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle shredded cheese over half of the tortilla, then add a generous portion of the BBQ chicken mixture on top, followed by a bit more cheese for extra gooeyness.
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Fold: Carefully fold the tortilla in half, enclosing all the delicious filling securely. Press down gently to help it hold its shape while cooking.
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Heat: Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add a little butter or oil. This step is key to achieving that crispy golden-brown outside we all love!
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Cook: Place the folded quesadilla in the skillet, cooking until the underside is golden brown (about 2-3 minutes) and the cheese starts to melt.
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Flip: Use a spatula to carefully flip the quesadilla. Cook the other side until it’s equally golden and the cheese is fully melted—about another 2-3 minutes.
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Repeat: Continue the process with the remaining tortillas and chicken filling. You might need to adjust the heat if they’re browning too quickly.
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Serve: Once finished, cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve them warm with extra BBQ sauce or any of your favorite toppings like jalapeños or cilantro.
Optional: Serve with a side of refreshing coleslaw for an extra crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Variations
Feel free to make these BBQ Chicken Quesadillas your own with some delightful twists and swaps!
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Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for black beans, sautéed mushrooms, or grilled veggies for a hearty, meatless delight.
Enjoy the smoky BBQ flavor even without meat! -
Salsa Twist: Replace BBQ sauce with your favorite salsa for a fresh, zesty kick.
The vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes and herbs add an exciting new twist! -
Spicy Kick: Mix in crushed red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce with the chicken for extra heat.
A spice lover’s dream awaits in every bite! -
Cheese Mix: Combine different cheeses like pepper jack for a kick and mozzarella for stretchiness.
This melty blend will elevate your quesadilla experience! -
Different Tortillas: Try whole wheat or corn tortillas for a different flavor profile and texture.
Each tortilla brings its unique taste and complement to the fillings! -
Creamy Addition: Add a layer of cream cheese or ranch dressing inside for extra creaminess.
It makes every cheesy bite even more indulgent! -
Sweet Surprise: Incorporate pineapple chunks or peach slices for a sweet and savory fusion.
This unexpected sweetness complements the smoky BBQ beautifully! -
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in some fresh cilantro or parsley for an herby freshness.
These herbs can brighten up every mouthful, enhancing the overall flavor!
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?
These delightful quesadillas offer a perfect starting point for a delicious meal that everyone will love.
- Fresh Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole pairs beautifully with the smoky BBQ chicken, adding a refreshing contrast of flavors.
- Crispy Coleslaw: The crunchy texture and tangy notes of coleslaw complement the quesadillas perfectly, providing a bright, crisp side.
- Spicy Black Bean Dip: This dip adds an exciting kick that enhances the flavors of the BBQ chicken, making every bite even more enjoyable.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: Creamy and sweet with a hint of spice, this salad offers a fresh twist that balances the richness of the quesadillas.
- Tortilla Chips with Salsa: A classic pairing, the crunch of tortilla chips with zesty salsa brings an extra layer of texture and flavor to the table.
- Citrus Side Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a citrus dressing brings brightness, cutting through the richness of the quesadillas delightfully.
- Frozen Lemonade: A refreshing drink that offers a cool counterpart to the warm quesadillas, balancing the meal beautifully.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, these warm, gooey cookies provide a sweet ending that complements the savory flavors of the quesadillas.
Make Ahead Options
These BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are perfect for busy weeknights! You can assemble them up to 24 hours in advance by preparing the filling with cooked chicken and BBQ sauce, then refrigerate in an airtight container. Assemble each quesadilla with cheese and tortillas, stacking them with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the quesadillas directly from the fridge until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. This method ensures your quesadillas stay just as delicious and saves precious time on hectic days!
Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
- Sauce Control: Use moderate amounts of BBQ sauce to avoid soggy tortillas; excess moisture can ruin the crispiness.
- Crispy Layers: Cook on medium heat and avoid overcrowding the skillet; this helps maintain a nice, golden-brown exterior on your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas.
- Flavor Combinations: Mix different cheeses for a more complex flavor; consider cheddar for sharpness and Monterey Jack for creaminess.
- Freezer Friendly: Assemble and freeze quesadillas ahead of time; when cooking from frozen, extend cooking time slightly to ensure they’re heated through.
- Prep Ahead: Make the chicken mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for a quick meal during busy weeks.
Storage Tips for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Fridge: Store leftover BBQ Chicken Quesadillas in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap quesadillas individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat or an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, avoiding the microwave to keep the tortillas crispy.
Serving Suggestions: Reheat with a drizzle of additional BBQ sauce to enhance flavor before serving for a delightful experience!
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for my BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using rotisserie chicken, as it’s tender and full of flavor, making it an easy time-saver. If you prefer, you can also use grilled chicken breast or even leftover chicken from a previous meal. Just make sure the chicken is cooked through and seasoned to your liking.
What’s the best way to store leftover BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?
Very! You can keep leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, using a skillet or oven helps retain their crispiness, unlike the microwave, which can make them soggy. Just place them in a hot pan for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until warmed through.
Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Quesadillas for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each assembled quesadilla individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, cook from frozen in a skillet over medium heat for an additional few minutes on each side until heated through and crispy.
What are some common troubleshooting tips for perfect quesadillas?
If your quesadillas aren’t getting that beautiful crispy texture, ensure you aren’t overcrowding the skillet—this might cause steaming instead of frying. Also, using a moderate amount of BBQ sauce is crucial, as too much can make your tortillas soggy. If you find the cheese isn’t melting enough, consider covering the skillet for a minute or two while cooking to trap heat.
Are BBQ Chicken Quesadillas suitable for my vegetarian friends?
Very! You can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with black beans, sautéed mushrooms, or a medley of grilled veggies. Just ensure to add enough BBQ sauce for flavor, and combine with your choice of cheeses to keep it creamy and delicious. It’s a great way to accommodate all dietary preferences!
Can my pets eat BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?
While your furry friends might be curious about your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas, it’s best to keep them away from the dish. Ingredients like onions and excessive cheese might not be good for them. Instead, consider setting aside some plain cooked chicken for them as a special treat while you enjoy your meal.
Easily Irresistible BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Everyone Loves
Equipment
- Skillet
Ingredients
For the Quesadillas
- 2 cups Cooked Chicken Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
- 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce Adjust quantity to taste.
- 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack) Substitute with mozzarella or pepper jack if desired.
- 4 pieces Flour Tortillas (8-inch) Acts as the outer layer.
- 1/2 cup Red Onion Optional, can be replaced with sweet or spicy onions.
- 2 tablespoons Butter or Oil Used for cooking.
For Optional Toppings
- 1/4 cup Jalapeños Adds a spicy kick.
- 1/4 cup Cilantro Sprinkle before serving.
- 2 tablespoons Green Onions Chop finely for crunch.
Instructions
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken with BBQ sauce until every piece is evenly coated.
- Place one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle shredded cheese over half of the tortilla, then add a generous portion of the BBQ chicken mixture on top, followed by a bit more cheese.
- Carefully fold the tortilla in half, enclosing all the filling securely.
- Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add a little butter or oil.
- Place the folded quesadilla in the skillet, cooking until the underside is golden brown (about 2-3 minutes).
- Carefully flip the quesadilla and cook the other side until it’s equally golden and the cheese is fully melted (about another 2-3 minutes).
- Continue with the remaining tortillas and chicken filling.
- Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve them warm with extra BBQ sauce or toppings.
Notes
Nutrition
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