10 Irresistible BBQ Chicken Quesadillas You’ll Love

Recipe By:
Ruth
Updated:

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are a delightful fusion of smoky, tangy flavors, wrapped in crispy tortillas, ready to make your taste buds dance. Imagine biting into a warm quesadilla filled with juicy chicken, melted cheese, and a hint of barbecue sauce that transports you straight to a sunny backyard BBQ. For more inspiration, check out this lunch ideas recipe.

Every time I whip up these BBQ Chicken Quesadillas, I’m reminded of those lazy summer afternoons spent grilling with friends. They always disappear faster than you can say “seconds, please!” You can serve them at casual gatherings or cozy family dinners, and they promise to be a hit every time. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights
  • The flavor profile is a harmonious blend of sweet and smoky that everyone loves
  • Visually appealing with golden-brown edges and colorful fillings, they look great on any plate
  • Versatile enough to customize with whatever ingredients you have on hand

Nothing brings a smile quite like the satisfied grins from family after serving these delicious BBQ Chicken Quesadillas at our last game night.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts should suffice; adjust based on your guest list.

  • Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade for a personal touch; the smokier, the better.

  • Shredded Cheese: A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack provides creaminess and flavor; feel free to experiment!

  • Tortillas: Opt for large flour tortillas to hold all that gooey goodness without falling apart.

  • Green Onions: Chopped for added freshness; they lend a lovely crunch and a pop of color.

  • Cilantro (Optional): For those who love it, sprinkle some fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

How to Make BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

Cook the Chicken: Start by preheating your grill or skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before cooking until no longer pink inside, about 6-8 minutes per side.

Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding it using two forks. This step adds texture that pairs beautifully with the melted cheese.

Add Barbecue Sauce: Toss the shredded chicken in barbecue sauce until well coated. You want every piece glistening with that smoky goodness—this is where the magic happens!

Assemble the Quesadillas: Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle half with cheese, followed by generous spoonfuls of the BBQ chicken mixture. Top with green onions and more cheese before folding the tortilla in half.

Cook Until Golden Brown: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Cook each quesadilla for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy while ensuring the cheese melts perfectly inside.

Slice and Serve!: Remove from heat and let them cool slightly before cutting into wedges. Serve with extra barbecue sauce or sour cream for dipping—trust me; it’s worth it!

You Must Know

  • BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are the perfect weeknight meal
  • They are quick to prepare, and you can customize them to please everyone at the table
  • The combination of smoky BBQ sauce with gooey cheese creates an irresistible flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking chicken thoroughly, then mix it with BBQ sauce before assembling your quesadillas. This ensures every bite is flavorful and juicy, while preventing any undercooked chicken mishaps.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for beef or veggies, and add different cheeses for a unique twist. Experimenting with toppings like jalapeños or fresh cilantro can elevate the flavor profile even further.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until crispy and heated through to maintain texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To get perfectly melted cheese, use a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack
  • Avoid overfilling your quesadillas to prevent spills while cooking
  • Try grilling instead of frying for a delicious charred flavor that elevates your dish

Sharing my first experience making BBQ Chicken Quesadillas was memorable; my friends devoured them so quickly, I barely had time to savor my own!

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?

Absolutely! Just ensure it’s fully thawed and cooked through before mixing with BBQ sauce.

What sides pair well with BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?

Serve them with a fresh salad or guacamole for a delightful balance of flavors.

How do I make these quesadillas healthier?

Substituting whole wheat tortillas and adding more veggies can create a healthier version of this dish.

Print

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are a delicious blend of smoky and tangy flavors, perfectly wrapped in crispy tortillas. Each bite combines juicy chicken, melted cheese, and zesty barbecue sauce, making these quesadillas an ideal choice for game nights or casual family dinners. Quick to prepare and easily customizable, they promise to be a crowd-pleaser that elevates your mealtime experience.

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • ¼ cup chopped green onions
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat grill or skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper; cook for 6-8 minutes per side until no longer pink.
  2. Shred the cooked chicken using two forks and mix with barbecue sauce until well coated.
  3. Lay one tortilla flat; sprinkle half with cheese, add the BBQ chicken mixture, green onions, and more cheese. Fold the tortilla in half.
  4. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; cook each quesadilla for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Let cool slightly before slicing into wedges. Serve with extra barbecue sauce or sour cream for dipping.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 quesadilla (150g)
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added flavor, try using smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese. Substitute chicken with beef or vegetables to create a unique twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in a skillet for the best texture.

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