BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

This BBQ Chicken Quesadilla has so much flavor, it’s easy to make, and it’s perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a light supper, an after-school snack, or an appetizer that will impress guests, this dish has you covered. The combination of juicy chicken and tangy BBQ sauce encased in melted cheese creates a delightful experience that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The rich BBQ sauce combined with melted cheddar creates a mouthwatering taste that is hard to resist.
• Versatile: Perfect for using up leftover chicken, these quesadillas can be customized with your favorite veggies or additional spices.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike enjoy this cheesy treat, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and reheat them for quick lunches or snacks throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing BBQ Chicken Quesadillas even easier. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Prevents sticking and ensures even cooking of the quesadillas.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly and efficiently.
• Spatula: Helps in flipping quesadillas without causing any spills or mess.

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Ingredients

Chicken

• 2 cups chicken (shredded)

BBQ Sauce

• 1 1/2 cups BBQ sauce

Tortillas

• 6 tortillas (8 inch)

Cheese

• 2 cups cheddar cheese

How to Make BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups shredded chicken with 1½ cups BBQ sauce. Stir well until the chicken is fully coated.

Step 2: Heat the Tortilla

Place a non-stick skillet over low-medium heat. Heat one side of a tortilla until warm but not crisp.

Step 3: Assemble the Quesadilla

On half of the heated tortilla:
* Sprinkle 1 cup cheddar cheese on first.
* Add a generous amount of the BBQ chicken mixture on top.
* Sprinkle another layer of 1 cup cheddar cheese over the chicken.
Fold the tortilla in half.

Step 4: Cook Until Golden Brown

Flip the folded quesadilla gently in the skillet. Cook until both sides are golden brown and crispy. Repeat this process with all remaining tortillas.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Cut each quesadilla into wedges and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Quesadillas!

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them for lunch, dinner, or a casual gathering, these flavorful quesadillas can be paired with different sides and dips to elevate your meal.

Pair with Fresh Salsa

• Homemade salsa adds a zesty kick that complements the smoky flavors of the barbecue chicken.

Serve with Guacamole

• Creamy guacamole provides a rich texture that balances the spice and tanginess of the quesadilla.

Accompany with Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream can cool down any heat from spicy BBQ sauces and enhance the overall flavor.

Add a Side Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette offers freshness and crunch to your meal.

Enjoy with Pickled Vegetables

• Pickled vegetables add a tangy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the cheesy, savory quesadillas.

Offer Extra BBQ Sauce

• Serving extra BBQ sauce on the side allows guests to customize their dipping experience for added flavor.

How to Perfect BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

Creating perfect BBQ Chicken Quesadillas is all about technique and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your quesadillas turn out delicious every time.

• Use fresh tortillas: Fresh tortillas will give you a better texture and flavor compared to stale or pre-packaged ones.

• Shred your chicken finely: Finely shredded chicken mixes well with the BBQ sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

• Don’t overfill: Overfilling your quesadilla can make it difficult to cook evenly. Use just enough filling for balance.

• Cook on low-medium heat: Cooking on low-medium heat allows the cheese to melt while preventing the tortilla from burning.

• Experiment with cheeses: While cheddar is classic, mixing in pepper jack or mozzarella can add an exciting twist.

• Let them rest before cutting: Allowing your quesadillas to rest for a minute after cooking helps set the filling, making them easier to cut without spilling.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

To complement your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas, consider these delightful side dishes that add variety and richness to your meal.

1. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings sweetness and crunch that pairs well with barbecue flavors.
2. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and creaminess, making it an excellent contrast to warm quesadillas.
3. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and fiber, enhancing the meal’s heartiness.
4. Mexican Rice: Flavorful Mexican rice seasoned with spices makes for a satisfying side dish alongside your quesadillas.
5. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa offer an enjoyable appetizer or snack option before the main dish.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables can add color and nutrients while complementing the smoky taste of BBQ chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making BBQ Chicken Quesadillas can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin the flavor or texture.

• Skipping the Cheese Layer: Not adding cheese on both sides of the chicken can lead to dry quesadillas. Always sprinkle cheese before and after adding the chicken.
• Overfilling the Tortillas: Adding too much filling can make it hard to fold and cook evenly. Stick to a moderate amount for easy handling.
• Cooking on High Heat: Cooking at too high a temperature can burn the tortillas before the cheese melts. Use low-medium heat for even cooking.
• Using Stale Tortillas: Old tortillas can break and ruin the quesadilla structure. Always use fresh tortillas for the best results.
• Not Preheating the Skillet: A cold skillet means uneven cooking. Make sure to preheat your skillet before adding your quesadillas.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store BBQ Chicken Quesadillas in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

• Wrap each quesadilla tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place quesadillas on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat each quesadilla on a microwave-safe plate for about 1-2 minutes. This is quick but may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and cook each quesadilla for about 2-3 minutes per side until crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding BBQ Chicken Quesadillas.

Can I use leftovers for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?

Yes! Using leftover BBQ chicken is perfect for this recipe, making it quick and flavorful.

What type of cheese works best in BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?

Cheddar cheese is widely used, but you can also try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added flavor.

How do I customize my BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?

Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, onions, or corn for extra nutrition and taste.

Are BBQ Chicken Quesadillas suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! They store well in the fridge or freezer, making them ideal for meal prep.

What are some dipping sauces for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?

Try salsa, guacamole, or sour cream as delicious dipping options that complement the flavors well.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are not just a recipe; they are an experience filled with flavor and comfort. Easy to prepare and perfect for any meal occasion, these quesadillas allow room for creativity. Customize them with your favorite ingredients or serve them with delightful dips. Give this recipe a try today!