Name: BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced); ½ to ¾ cup BBQ sauce (adjust to taste); 1½ to 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or blend); 8 flour tortillas (8-inch size); 1 small red onion (thinly sliced (optional)); Butter or oil (for cooking); Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños (cilantro, or green onions)

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Quesadillas are comfort food at its finest, and when filled with tender BBQ chicken and melted cheese, they become irresistible. These BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are perfect for any time of day—whether you’re craving a satisfying lunch, a quick dinner, or a flavorful snack.

The smoky sweetness of the BBQ sauce blends beautifully with the gooey cheese and savory chicken, all wrapped in a warm, crispy tortilla. Ready in just minutes, this dish is both simple and delicious, guaranteed to please the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
Versatile ingredients that can be adjusted to your taste preferences.
A crowd-pleasing combination of smoky BBQ chicken and melted cheese in a crispy shell.
Great for lunch, dinner, or a hearty snack anytime.

Ingredients

Cooked Chicken (2 cups): Use shredded or diced chicken for tender, juicy bites that soak up the BBQ sauce perfectly.
BBQ Sauce (½–3/4 cup): Adjust sweetness and smokiness to taste; it adds a rich, tangy layer to the chicken filling.
Shredded Cheese (1½–2 cups): Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend provides a creamy, melty texture that binds the filling together.
Flour Tortillas (8-inch, 8): Soft and pliable, ideal for folding and crisping to golden perfection.
Red Onion (1 small, thinly sliced): Adds a mild, sweet crunch that complements the savory chicken (optional).
Jalapeños (sliced, optional): Adds a spicy kick to elevate flavor and heat.
Cilantro (optional): Fresh and herbaceous, for garnish or added brightness.
Green Onions (optional): Adds a subtle onion flavor and fresh color.
Butter or Oil: Used for cooking to achieve a golden, crispy quesadilla exterior.

Instructions

Mix the Chicken with BBQ Sauce: In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine the cooked shredded or diced chicken with the BBQ sauce. This ensures every bite is packed with smoky, tangy flavor that complements the cheese perfectly.
Assemble the Quesadillas: Lay one flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese over half of the tortilla. Add an even portion of the BBQ chicken mixture on top of the cheese, and then sprinkle extra cheese over the chicken to help bind the filling. Optionally, add thinly sliced red onions or jalapeños for added flavor. Fold the tortilla over to enclose the filling securely.
Heat the Skillet and Cook: Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil to coat the pan. Place the folded quesadilla in the skillet and cook until the underside turns golden brown and the cheese starts melting, about 2 to 3 minutes. Carefully flip and cook the other side until it is golden and the cheese is fully melted, creating a crispy, flavorful shell.
Repeat with Remaining Tortillas: Continue assembling and cooking the remaining quesadillas in batches. This keeps each quesadilla warm and fresh, ensuring consistent crispiness and gooey filling in every serving.
Serve and Enjoy: Cut each quesadilla into wedges and serve warm. Pair them with extra BBQ sauce, sour cream, or your favorite dipping sauces for enhanced flavor and enjoyment.

You Must Know

Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and maximum gooeyness.
Adjust BBQ sauce amount based on your preferred balance between smoky and saucy flavors.
To keep quesadillas warm while finishing others, place cooked ones on a baking sheet in a low oven (200°F).

Storage Tips

Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to restore crispiness instead of the microwave.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these BBQ Chicken Quesadillas with a crisp side salad, crunchy tortilla chips, or a refreshing coleslaw to balance the rich flavors. Fresh lime wedges can add a zesty finish when squeezed over the top.

Professional Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken briefly in BBQ sauce before assembling.
Use a mix of sharp cheddar and creamy Monterey Jack cheese for depth and meltability.
Press down gently on the skillet lid while cooking to help the cheese fully melt and bind fillings.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?: Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient choice that adds great flavor and saves prep time.
What can I use instead of BBQ sauce?: You can substitute with salsa, buffalo sauce, or even a smoky chipotle sauce for a different flavor twist.
Are there any vegetarian alternatives?: Absolutely! Replace the chicken with black beans, sautéed mushrooms, or grilled veggies for a delicious vegetarian version.
How do I ensure the quesadillas don’t get soggy?: Use only a moderate amount of BBQ sauce and cook on medium heat to crisp the tortillas well without leaking moisture.
Can I freeze assembled quesadillas?: Yes, assemble and freeze quesadillas before cooking. Cook from frozen in a skillet or oven, increasing cook time as needed.
What’s the best cheese for melting in quesadillas?: Cheddar and Monterey Jack are classics due to their meltability and flavor. Mozzarella or pepper jack also work well.
How can I make these spicier?: Add sliced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce in the chicken mixture, or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes.