Oh my goodness, if you haven’t tried a BBQ chicken quesadilla yet, you’re in for a real treat! These delicious, cheesy delights are not only bursting with flavor, but they’re also super quick to whip up—perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something satisfying without the fuss. I remember the first time I made these for a game night with friends; the aroma of grilled chicken and tangy BBQ sauce filled the kitchen, and everyone just couldn’t wait to dig in! I mean, who doesn’t love a crispy tortilla filled with gooey cheese and smoky, savory chicken? Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked! So, let’s dive into this scrumptious BBQ chicken quesadilla recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home, just like it is in mine!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
How to Prepare BBQ Chicken Quesadilla
Alright, let’s get cooking! Making a BBQ chicken quesadilla is super straightforward, and I promise you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Here’s how to do it:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, grab a bowl and mix your cooked shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce. Make sure every piece of chicken gets a good coating—this is where the flavor magic happens!
- Now, heat up a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want that oil to shimmer a bit, but not smoke. This helps to get that golden brown crust on your quesadilla.
- Once the oil is hot, place one tortilla in the pan. It should sizzle lightly, which is a good sign!
- On one half of the tortilla, layer half of your BBQ chicken mixture and sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top. Don’t be shy with the cheese—it’s what makes it gooey and delicious!
- Now, carefully fold the tortilla over to cover the filling. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom is beautifully golden brown. You can peek underneath to check.
- Time to flip! Gently turn the quesadilla over and let the other side cook for another 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
- Once done, remove it from the pan and let it rest for a minute. Then, slice it into wedges—this makes it easier to share (or not, no judgment here!).
- Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling. You’ll have a stack of warm, cheesy goodness ready to enjoy!
And there you have it! Simple, right? Just be careful while flipping, and keep an eye on that heat so nothing burns. Enjoy your BBQ chicken quesadilla feast!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a quick meal—ready in just 25 minutes!
- Super easy to make, even for beginner cooks.
- Flavor-packed with the perfect balance of BBQ sauce, cheese, and chicken.
- Completely customizable! Add your favorite veggies or change up the cheese for a twist.
- Perfect for gatherings, game nights, or a cozy family dinner.
- Leftovers (if there are any!) are just as delicious the next day.
Tips for Success
Want to make sure your BBQ chicken quesadilla turns out perfectly every time? I’ve got you covered with some of my favorite tips! First off, don’t rush the cooking process. Let those quesadillas get nice and crispy by keeping the heat at medium. If it’s too high, you risk burning the tortilla before the cheese even melts!
Also, make sure your chicken is well-coated in BBQ sauce. This not only adds flavor but also keeps the chicken moist. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some sliced jalapeños into the mix for a spicy kick!
Don’t be shy with the cheese—after all, it’s a quesadilla! Use a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for that perfect gooeyness. And remember to let the quesadilla rest for a minute after cooking before cutting it. This helps the cheese set a bit, making it easier to slice without everything spilling out.
Finally, if you want to elevate your meal, serve your quesadilla with some zesty sides like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole. They add a fresh contrast to the richness of the quesadilla and make every bite even more delicious!
Nutritional Information Section
When you’re diving into a BBQ chicken quesadilla, it’s always good to know what you’re enjoying! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional information for one quesadilla:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugar: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the ingredients you choose and portion sizes. But hey, knowing what’s in your food can help you enjoy it even more! So, go ahead and indulge in that cheesy goodness—just maybe not every day, right?
FAQ Section
Can I use different meats in my quesadilla?
Absolutely! While I love using shredded chicken with BBQ sauce, you can easily swap it for cooked pulled pork, beef, or even veggies for a tasty vegetarian option. Just make sure whatever you choose pairs well with the smoky BBQ flavor!
What if I don’t have BBQ sauce?
No worries! If you’re out of BBQ sauce, you can make a quick substitute by mixing ketchup with a bit of Worcestershire sauce and some spices like garlic powder and onion powder. It won’t be exactly the same, but it’ll still add that sweet and tangy kick!
How can I make my BBQ chicken quesadilla spicier?
If you’re looking to turn up the heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to your chicken mixture. You could also serve it with a spicy salsa or a drizzle of hot sauce on top for an extra kick!
What are the best toppings to serve with BBQ chicken quesadillas?
I love serving my quesadillas with a side of sour cream and guacamole—they bring a creamy, refreshing contrast to the smoky flavor. Salsa is also a great choice, especially if you like a bit of zest. You can even add some fresh cilantro or lime wedges for a bright finish!
Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Just prepare the filling and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to eat, assemble and cook the quesadillas. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but you can also reheat them in a pan to keep that crispy texture!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got those mouthwatering BBQ chicken quesadillas ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside them! The right sides and dips can really elevate your meal and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some of my favorites:
- Sour Cream: This classic dip adds a cool, creamy contrast to the smoky flavors of the quesadilla. A dollop on the side is always a hit!
- Guacamole: Fresh, creamy guacamole is a game-changer! It perfectly complements the richness of the quesadilla and adds a delightful flavor.
- Salsa: Whether you go for a chunky tomato salsa or a zesty mango salsa, the bright flavors will enhance each bite. Plus, it adds a fun pop of color to your plate!
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant salad with corn, cilantro, lime, and cheese brings a refreshing crunch that pairs beautifully with the warm quesadillas.
- Chips: Tortilla chips are a great addition! Use them to scoop up any leftover dips or just munch on them as a crunchy side.
- Fresh Veggies: Sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or carrot sticks can add a refreshing crunch to your meal. Serve with a tangy dip for an extra touch!
Mix and match these sides based on your mood or what you have on hand. Trust me, having a variety of dips and sides will make your BBQ chicken quesadilla feast even more fun and flavorful!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers of your BBQ chicken quesadilla (and let’s be honest, that’s a big “if”!), storing them properly is key to keeping that lovely flavor and texture. First, let the quesadillas cool completely before you store them. This helps prevent any condensation that could make them soggy.
Once they’re cool, wrap each quesadilla tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place them in an airtight container—just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. Stored this way, they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating is where it gets fun! For the best results, I recommend using a skillet. Just heat it over medium heat and place the quesadilla in the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re warmed through and the cheese is melty again. This method helps retain that crispy texture!
If you’re in a hurry, you can also pop them in the microwave. Just place a quesadilla on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel (this helps keep it from drying out), and heat for about 30-60 seconds. Just keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can savor every last bite of your BBQ chicken quesadilla goodness, even on those busy days!
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BBQ Chicken Quesadilla: 7 Reasons You’ll Love This Treat
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious BBQ chicken quesadilla filled with cheese and grilled chicken.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
Instructions
- Mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce in a bowl.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Place one tortilla in the pan.
- Add half of the chicken mixture and half of the cheese on one half of the tortilla.
- Fold the tortilla over and cook until golden brown.
- Flip and cook the other side until cheese melts.
- Remove from the pan and cut into wedges.
- Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
Notes
- Serve with sour cream or guacamole.
- Customize with additional vegetables if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 quesadilla
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: bbq chicken quesadilla
