There’s something magical about the aroma of barbecued chicken wafting through the house, isn’t there? It instantly transports me to lively backyard gatherings filled with laughter and good food. That’s why I can’t wait to share my BBQ Chicken Quesadillas recipe—a quick, family-friendly meal that brings all those comforting flavors together in just under 20 minutes. Packed with tender, shredded chicken that’s perfectly coated in smoky barbecue sauce, gooey melted cheese, and crispy tortillas, these quesadillas are not only easy to make but also endlessly customizable. They’re ideal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied. So, are you ready to whip up a batch and recreate those cherished moments in your kitchen? Let’s get cooking!
Why are BBQ Chicken Quesadillas a must-try?
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you’re short on time.
Customizable Delight: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce and add ingredients like roasted veggies or different cheeses to make it your own.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the gooey cheese and savory chicken, ensuring everyone stays happy at dinner time.
Perfect for Gatherings: These quesadillas are an excellent option for parties, allowing guests to snack on mini versions easily.
Leftover Love: Got some extra chicken? Use it in this recipe for a delicious way to repurpose leftovers, as you might with Slow Cooker Chicken or the Cheesy Chicken Meatball dish!
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Ingredients
For the Quesadillas
- Tortillas – Your base for holding all the delicious fillings together; opt for gluten-free or low-carb alternatives if needed.
- Shredded Chicken – This protein-packed ingredient serves as the star of your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas; using leftover roast chicken makes prep even easier!
- BBQ Sauce – Essential for that signature smoky sweetness; choose your favorite style—Kansas City for sweetness, Carolina for tang, or Texas for richness.
- Monterey Jack Cheese – Melts beautifully and pairs perfectly with the chicken; feel free to mix in some cheddar or mozzarella for a richer flavor.
- Red Onion – Adds a delightful crunch and sharpness; you can substitute with green onions or skip it if you prefer a milder taste.
- Cilantro – Provides a fresh touch that balances the dish; if you’re not a fan, you can substitute it with parsley or simply leave it out.
For Serving
- Extra BBQ Sauce – Serve on the side for dipping and enhanced flavor.
- Sour Cream or Salsa – Adds a creamy or zesty touch that complements the quesadillas beautifully.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Step 1: Preheat the Skillet
Begin by preheating a large skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes. This ensures that your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas achieve that perfect golden-brown exterior while cooking. If you have a non-stick skillet, you can skip adding any oil; otherwise, consider a light spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the BBQ Chicken Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken with your preferred BBQ sauce. If you want a more cohesive blend, warm the sauce lightly in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds before mixing. This will help the sauce coat the chicken evenly, enhancing the flavor of your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas.
Step 3: Assemble the Quesadilla
Place one tortilla in the skillet, allowing it to warm slightly for about 30 seconds. Layer one side generously with Monterey Jack cheese, followed by the BBQ chicken mixture, and any additional fillings like red onion or cilantro if desired. Then, top with another sprinkle of cheese to hold everything together before placing a second tortilla on top.
Step 4: Cook the First Side
Cook the quesadilla for about 3-4 minutes on medium heat, pressing gently with a spatula to ensure it cooks evenly. Keep an eye on the bottom tortilla for a crisp, golden color, which indicates it’s ready to flip. The cheese should start to melt at this point, enveloping the filling in gooey goodness.
Step 5: Flip and Cook the Other Side
Carefully flip the quesadilla using a spatula, allowing it to cook on the other side for another 3-4 minutes. Continue to monitor the color; it should be similar to its first side—crispy and golden. At this point, the cheese in your BBQ Chicken Quesadilla will be fully melted, creating a deliciously bound filling.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once both sides are cooked to perfection, remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it sit for a minute to set. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice it into wedges. Serve your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas warm with extra BBQ sauce, sour cream, or salsa for dipping, making every bite irresistible!
Make Ahead Options
These BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are ideal for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the BBQ chicken mixture (shredded chicken and BBQ sauce) up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its flavor and moisture. Additionally, you can pre-shred the cheese and chop any vegetables like red onion or cilantro ahead of time, keeping them in separate containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply assemble the quesadillas as instructed and cook them until golden brown, ensuring that every bite is just as delicious as if made fresh!
Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
• Heat Control: Maintain medium heat to cook the tortillas perfectly without burning them while the cheese melts.
• Don’t Overfill: Keep your fillings moderate to prevent spills when flipping. Stick to a balanced amount for the best results.
• Layering Cheese: Place cheese both above and below the filling to create a better binding that holds the quesadilla together during cooking.
• Storing Precautions: Cool quesadillas completely before storing in airtight containers to preserve their crispness for up to 3 days.
• Reheating Tips: When reheating, use an oven or air fryer rather than the microwave for a fresher, crispier outcome on your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas.
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?
There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy quesadilla to bring comfort and satisfaction to the table!
- Crispy Coleslaw: This refreshing side adds crunch and a bit of tang, balancing the richness of the quesadillas perfectly. The creamy texture offers a delightful contrast.
- Zesty Guacamole: Creamy and rich, this avocado dip pairs wonderfully, providing a burst of flavor and freshness that complements the smoky notes of the BBQ.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, the sweetness of corn makes a delightful side that enhances the heartiness of the quesadillas, adding vibrant color to the meal.
- Fresh Green Salad: A simple blend of mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes tossed in a light vinaigrette brings a refreshing element to your plate. It’s a light counterpoint to the savory quesadillas.
- Spicy Salsa: Whether it’s a tomato-based or fruit salsa, this punchy dip not only adds flavor but also provides a fun, zesty kick to each bite.
- Homemade Potato Wedges: Crispy and seasoned, these hearty wedges add satisfying crunch and comfort, making them an excellent companion to the gooey quesadillas.
- Iced Tea with Lemon: A tall glass of sweet, refreshing iced tea harmonizes beautifully with BBQ flavors, cleansing the palate and quenching thirst after each bite.
- Churros with Chocolate Sauce: For a sweet finish, serve warm churros dipped in chocolate sauce to indulge in a dessert that echoes the joy of the meal!
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Variations
Feel free to get creative with your quesadillas and take them in exciting new directions!
BBQ Sauce Varieties: Experiment with different BBQ sauces like sweet, smoky, or tangy for a unique flavor twist.
Veggie Boost: Add roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to enhance texture and introduce a nutritious element.
Cheesy Combinations: Mix Monterey Jack with cheddar or mozzarella for extra flavor depth that takes the creaminess up a notch.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to cater to those who love a bit of heat in their meal.
Mini Quesadillas: Use street taco-sized tortillas for bite-sized versions; perfect for parties or fun finger foods.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap out traditional tortillas for gluten-free or cauliflower-based alternatives; everyone can enjoy the fun!
Protein Variants: Substitute chicken with shredded pork, beef, or even a plant-based protein for a delightful twist on the classic.
Sour Cream Swirls: Serve with flavored sour cream (like chipotle or garlic) for a tangy dip that plays beautifully against the quesadilla’s richness.
For even more delicious chicken ideas, check out my Grilled Chicken Avocado or Cheesy Chicken Cordon recipes that will delight your family!
How to Store and Freeze BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the quesadillas cool completely before sealing to keep them crisp.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze BBQ Chicken Quesadillas in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Ensure they’re wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, place quesadillas in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or use an air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. This keeps them deliciously crispy!
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?
For the best flavor and texture, choose slightly firm, fresh tortillas that don’t have any dark spots. When using red onions, look for those with bright skin and a solid texture without any soft spots. Fresh cilantro should be vibrant green with no wilting or browning.
What is the best way to store leftover BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?
Absolutely! Cool the quesadillas completely before transferring them to airtight containers. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispy texture, ensure they are tightly sealed to prevent moisture from making the tortillas soggy.
Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Quesadillas for later?
Very! Place cooled quesadillas in freezer-safe bags or containers, making sure to wrap them tightly. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
What should I do if my quesadillas are soggy or falling apart?
If this happens, it’s usually due to overfilling or cooked tortillas getting too moist. To prevent sogginess, layer your cheese both above and below the filling, and ensure you don’t overstuff. If they’re already soggy, try reheating them in a skillet on medium heat for a few minutes to help re-crisp the tortillas.
Are BBQ Chicken Quesadillas suitable for special diets?
Sure! For a Halal diet, ensure you’re using Halal-certified chicken and BBQ sauce. If allergies are a concern, check labels for gluten in BBQ sauces. You can also easily adapt this recipe for gluten-free or vegan diets by using gluten-free tortillas and plant-based cheeses.
How do I make the best layers in my BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?
To create the most delicious BBQ Chicken Quesadillas, I recommend placing a layer of cheese on the bottom tortilla first. This acts like glue to hold your fillings in place. Add your chicken mixture and any desired extras, followed by another sprinkle of cheese and a final tortilla on top. This simple layering technique ensures everything binds together perfectly during cooking!
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas: Quick Comfort for Any Weeknight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat a large skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Combine shredded chicken with BBQ sauce in a mixing bowl.
- Place one tortilla in the skillet, layer one side with cheese, followed by BBQ chicken, and top with another tortilla.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on medium heat, pressing lightly, until golden.
- Flip the quesadilla carefully and cook for another 3-4 minutes until fully melted.
- Remove from skillet, let sit for a minute, then slice into wedges.
