If you’re craving the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and cheesy all wrapped into one comforting bite, the BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Recipe is going to become your new go-to. This dish combines tender, BBQ-coated chicken and melty cheese sandwiched between golden, crispy tortillas that are quick to make yet endlessly satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a no-fuss meal that packs big flavor, these quesadillas are a total crowd-pleaser and a guaranteed hit around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each plays a crucial role in building the perfect BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Recipe. From the tender chicken to the gooey cheese and the vibrant touch of red onions, every element contributes to the ultimate combination of taste, texture, and color.
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: Provides tender, protein-packed filling that soaks up all the BBQ flavor beautifully.
- ½ cup BBQ sauce: Adds that essential sweet and smoky element that makes this dish irresistible.
- 4 large flour tortillas: The soft yet crisp base that holds all your delicious ingredients together.
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly to create the gooey, cheesy goodness inside.
- 2 tbsp chopped red onion (optional): Offers a slight crunch and a subtle zing for added complexity.
- Butter or oil for pan-frying: Helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior that makes quesadillas so delightful.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Recipe
Step 1: Toss the Chicken in BBQ Sauce
Start by mixing your cooked, shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce until every piece is coated in that rich, smoky flavor. This base is what gives the quesadilla its signature taste so make sure the chicken is well covered but not drenched.
Step 2: Assemble Your Quesadillas
Lay one of the flour tortillas flat and start layering. First, spread a generous amount of your BBQ-coated chicken, followed by a hearty sprinkling of shredded cheese. If you’re using red onions, scatter them evenly on top. Then, place the second tortilla over everything, pressing it gently to hold your masterpiece together.
Step 3: Pan-Fry Until Golden
Heat a little butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat and carefully place your assembled quesadilla in the pan. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the tortilla turns golden brown and the cheese inside melts to ooey-gooey perfection. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn and flip carefully for a beautifully crisp finish.
Step 4: Slice and Serve Warm
Remove the quesadilla from the pan and transfer it to a cutting board. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice it into wedges while still warm so the cheese stays melty and stretchy. Now it’s ready to devour!
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up your quesadillas with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, or even some sliced green onions. These garnishes add freshness and a little creamy contrast that perfectly complement the smoky BBQ chicken.
Side Dishes
Pair your BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Recipe with crunchy coleslaw, a fresh garden salad, or classic tortilla chips and salsa for a Tex-Mex celebration. Each side adds a different texture, creating a well-rounded meal that excites the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these quesadillas nestled in a skillet for a rustic look or skewered as fun finger food for parties. You can also cut them into smaller bites and arrange them on a platter with dipping sauces for an irresistible appetizer spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got extra quesadilla? Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. Stored this way, it will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days, ready to be enjoyed again.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead, you can freeze assembled but uncooked quesadillas by wrapping each one individually in foil and then placing in freezer-safe bags. When properly stored, they keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop the quesadilla in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy again, or use an oven set at 350°F to gently revive the flavors and meltiness without sogginess. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that perfect texture.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut since it’s already cooked and flavorful. Just shred it and toss with BBQ sauce, and you’re good to go.
What type of cheese works best in BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Recipe?
Mozzarella and cheddar are both excellent choices because they melt well and provide a great contrast to the BBQ flavors. Feel free to mix them or try pepper jack for a bit of spice.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can easily swap the chicken for grilled veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini, combined with BBQ sauce for a delicious vegetarian quesadilla option.
How spicy is this BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Recipe?
This recipe is mild by default, but you can add jalapeños or a spicy BBQ sauce to kick up the heat if you prefer a little extra zing.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled quesadillas before cooking or the cooked leftovers. Just properly wrap them to prevent freezer burn and thaw before reheating for best results.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting about the smoky sweetness of BBQ chicken paired with melty cheese inside a crispy tortilla, and this BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Recipe delivers exactly that with ease and speed. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing snack, it hits all the right notes. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and enjoy this little slice of Tex-Mex heaven in your own home!
Print
BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Recipe
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 4 quesadillas
Description
Sweet and smoky BBQ chicken melted together with cheese inside a golden tortilla — a quick weeknight favorite everyone loves. This BBQ Chicken Quesadilla recipe combines tender shredded chicken with tangy BBQ sauce and gooey cheese, all perfectly toasted in a skillet for a crispy, flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
Main Ingredients
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped red onion (optional)
- Butter or oil for pan-frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the cooked shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce until all pieces are evenly coated, ensuring each bite will be flavorful.
- Assemble the Quesadilla: Lay one flour tortilla flat and evenly layer the BBQ chicken mixture over it, then sprinkle the shredded cheese and chopped red onions (if using) on top. Cover with a second tortilla, pressing lightly to seal.
- Cook the Quesadilla: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil. Carefully place the assembled quesadilla into the pan and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until the tortillas are golden and crispy and the cheese inside is melted.
- Slice and Serve: Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it cool slightly before slicing into wedges. Serve warm for the best gooey texture and smoky BBQ flavor.
Notes
- Add bacon or jalapeños for an extra flavor boost and a bit of heat.
- Use your favorite BBQ sauce for tailoring the spice and sweetness.
- For crispier quesadillas, cook on a griddle or use a sandwich press if available.
- Leftover quesadillas can be reheated in a skillet or oven to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Main Course, Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex, American
