BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Recipe

Introduction

Quesadillas are one of those dishes that never fail to impress. They are versatile, easy to make, and packed with flavor. But what if we told you that you could take the classic quesadilla to new heights by adding BBQ chicken? That’s right – BBQ Chicken Quesadillas combine the rich, smoky flavors of barbecue sauce with tender, shredded chicken and gooey melted cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. It’s a mouthwatering combination that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a quick snack.

This BBQ Chicken Quesadilla recipe is both simple to make and incredibly satisfying. It’s an ideal dish when you’re craving something hearty but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking to make a family-friendly dinner, a fun game-day snack, or a delicious meal prep option, these quesadillas are sure to please. And if you’re someone who enjoys the flavors of BBQ, this recipe is a must-try!

In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about making BBQ Chicken Quesadillas, including the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for customizing the recipe to suit your taste preferences. We’ll also explore variations of this dish and give you some helpful ideas for pairing it with sides or drinks.

So, let’s get started and dive into the world of BBQ Chicken Quesadillas!

Why You’ll Love BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

• Flavorsome and Satisfying: BBQ Chicken Quesadillas offer a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and savory flavors, complemented by the richness of melted cheese. The result is a satisfying and comforting dish that will leave you craving more.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and only a few steps involved, BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are incredibly easy to make. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious meal in a hurry.
• Customizable: This recipe is very versatile and can be adapted to fit your dietary preferences. You can adjust the ingredients or add extras like vegetables, spices, or different types of cheese to create a quesadilla that’s uniquely yours.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: BBQ Chicken Quesadillas can be made ahead of time and stored for later, making them an excellent choice for meal prep. You can easily reheat them and enjoy a quick, tasty meal anytime.
• Kid-Friendly: With their cheesy, flavorful filling and crispy exterior, these quesadillas are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, they’re a great way to introduce children to the flavors of BBQ in a fun and approachable way.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 400-450 calories, depending on specific ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 10g

Ingredients

For the BBQ Chicken:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (about 2 chicken breasts)
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Quesadillas:

• 4 large flour tortillas (8-inch or 10-inch)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (optional)
• 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)
• 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the BBQ Chicken

The first step in making BBQ Chicken Quesadillas is preparing the BBQ chicken. Start by cooking and shredding the chicken. If you have leftover cooked chicken, this is a perfect opportunity to use it. Otherwise, cook the chicken breasts in a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil for about 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked through. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding it using two forks.

In a large bowl, toss the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until evenly coated. You can use any BBQ sauce you prefer, but a tangy, smoky sauce works best for this recipe. Set the BBQ chicken aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

2. Prepare the Quesadilla Fillings

Next, gather all the ingredients you will be using for the quesadilla filling. Start by shredding the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. These two types of cheese offer a perfect combination of meltiness and flavor, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick.

Thinly slice the red onion and chop the cilantro (if using). If you’re adding corn or black beans, have them ready as well. These optional ingredients add extra flavor and texture, but you can skip them if you prefer a more traditional BBQ chicken filling.

3. Assemble the Quesadillas

To assemble the quesadillas, lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. On half of the tortilla, spread a layer of BBQ chicken, followed by a generous amount of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Add a few slices of red onion, a sprinkle of cilantro, and any other optional ingredients like corn or black beans. Be sure not to overstuff the quesadilla to avoid spilling the filling during cooking.

Once the fillings are in place, fold the tortilla in half to enclose the ingredients. Press down gently to help seal the quesadilla.

4. Cook the Quesadillas

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, place the prepared quesadilla in the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Use a spatula to flip the quesadilla carefully, ensuring it doesn’t fall apart. You may need to cook the quesadillas in batches, depending on the size of your pan.

Once the quesadilla is cooked to perfection, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a cutting board. Repeat the process for the remaining quesadillas.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Allow the quesadillas to cool for a minute before cutting them into wedges. This will make them easier to slice and prevent the cheesy filling from spilling out. Serve the BBQ Chicken Quesadillas with your favorite dipping sauces, such as sour cream, salsa, or guacamole. You can also garnish the quesadillas with extra cilantro or a drizzle of BBQ sauce for added flavor.

Tips for Perfect BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

• Don’t Overstuff: It’s tempting to fill the quesadillas with as much chicken and cheese as possible, but overstuffing can make them difficult to cook and flip. Stick to a moderate amount of filling to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.
• Use Shredded Chicken: Shredded chicken works best in this recipe because it mixes well with the BBQ sauce and distributes evenly throughout the quesadilla. If you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken, this is a great option to save time.
• Adjust the BBQ Sauce: The amount of BBQ sauce you use can be adjusted based on your preference for sweetness, tang, or spice. If you like it spicier, choose a sauce with a bit of heat, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture.
• Add Veggies for Extra Crunch: If you want to add more texture to your quesadilla, consider adding thinly sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. These vegetables can complement the smoky BBQ chicken while adding freshness and crunch.
• Use a Cast Iron Skillet: If you have one, a cast iron skillet is ideal for cooking quesadillas. It retains heat well and gives the tortilla a nice crispy texture.
• Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella and cheddar are the go-to cheeses for quesadillas, feel free to get creative. Pepper jack cheese adds a spicy kick, or you could use gouda for a smoky flavor.

Variations of BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

• Buffalo Chicken Quesadillas: Swap the BBQ sauce for buffalo sauce for a spicy twist on the classic BBQ chicken flavor. Add blue cheese crumbles or ranch dressing for an extra layer of flavor.
• BBQ Chicken Veggie Quesadillas: Add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to the BBQ chicken filling for a colorful, veggie-packed version of the quesadilla.
• BBQ Chicken and Bacon Quesadillas: For an extra indulgent version, add crispy bacon to the filling. The smoky bacon pairs perfectly with the BBQ chicken and cheese, making for a deliciously rich quesadilla.
• Grilled BBQ Chicken Quesadillas: For a smoky, grilled flavor, cook the chicken on the grill before shredding and adding the BBQ sauce. This will give the chicken a charred, flavorful taste that adds depth to the quesadilla.

Storage and Shelf Life

If you have leftovers, BBQ Chicken Quesadillas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the quesadilla in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until crispy and heated through. You can also reheat them in the oven by wrapping them in foil and baking at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

Side Dishes and Pairings for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

• Guacamole: The creamy, flavorful guacamole perfectly complements the smoky, cheesy quesadillas.
• Salsa: A fresh salsa made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime adds a burst of freshness to balance out the richness of the quesadillas.
• Corn on the Cob: Serve the quesadillas with grilled or roasted corn on the cob for a complete BBQ-inspired meal.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw is a great side dish to serve with BBQ chicken quesadillas, adding crunch and a touch of acidity.
• Tortilla Chips: If you’re serving the quesadillas as a snack or appetizer, pair them with tortilla chips and your favorite salsa or queso dip.

Print

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are an incredibly delicious, satisfying, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a game-day snack, or a quick lunch, these quesadillas are sure to be a hit. With their smoky BBQ chicken filling, gooey cheese, and crispy tortillas, they offer the perfect combination of flavors and textures.

The recipe is versatile, customizable, and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken and turn it into a tasty, crowd-pleasing meal. So, grab your tortillas and BBQ sauce, and let’s get cooking – these BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are ready to become your new favorite dish!