Name: BBQ Chicken Quesadillas that Bring the Family Together
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Tortillas (Flour, whole wheat, or gluten-free options); 2 cups Shredded Chicken (Leftover roast chicken works well); 1 cup BBQ Sauce (Your favorite flavor); 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese (Can mix with other cheeses); 1/2 cup Red Onion (Can substitute with green onions or omit); 1/4 cup Cilantro (Optional, can replace with parsley or omit); 1 cup Roasted Vegetables (Peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms); 1/2 cup Jalapeños (Optional for extra heat); 4 pieces Different Tortillas (Low-carb or mini tortillas for appetizers)

As the sun sets and the delicious aroma of dinner fills the air, all I can think about are my comforting BBQ Chicken Quesadillas. This dish is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights when cravings for a satisfying meal collide with the need for something quick and delicious. Loaded with tender, shredded chicken tossed in tangy barbecue sauce, melty cheese, and crispy tortillas, these quesadillas deliver both flavor and texture that will have everyone at the table reaching for seconds. Plus, they’re incredibly customizable—feel free to spice them up with your favorite BBQ sauce or toss in some roasted veggies for a delicious twist! What delicious additions will you make to your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas tonight?

Why Are BBQ Chicken Quesadillas a Must-Try?

Flavor Explosion: You’ll experience a delightful combination of tangy BBQ sauce and gooey cheese in every bite.
Quick to Make: These quesadillas come together in just minutes, making them perfect for hectic weeknights.
Endless Customization: Whether you add roasted vegetables or switch up the BBQ sauce, you can tailor these to your taste.
Family Favorite: Their crispy texture and comforting flavors guarantee that everyone will love them, making dinnertime a breeze.
Simple Ingredients: Using basic pantry staples, you can create a gourmet meal without any fuss. For more ideas on quick meals, explore our High Protein BBQ or Chimichurri Grilled Chicken recipes!

BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Ingredients

• Ready to craft the perfect BBQ Chicken Quesadillas? Let’s gather our ingredients!

For the Quesadilla

Tortillas – Choose flour, whole wheat, or gluten-free options to suit your preference.
Shredded Chicken – Leftover roast chicken works wonders for a quick meal and adds great flavor.
BBQ Sauce – Select your favorite flavor; consider a sweet Kansas City-style for a milder taste or a spicy variety for an extra kick!
Monterey Jack Cheese – This cheese melts beautifully, lending a creamy texture; feel free to mix with other cheeses for added depth.
Red Onion – Offers a crunchy bite and sharp taste; you can substitute with green onions or skip it for a milder touch.
Cilantro – Adds a refreshing herbaceous note; you may replace it with parsley or omit it if you prefer a simpler flavor.

Optional Add-Ins

Roasted Vegetables – Toss in roasted peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor variety.
Spicy Elements – Spice things up with jalapeños or a hot BBQ sauce for those who love heat!
Different Tortillas – For a twist, try low-carb or mini tortillas, especially if serving as appetizers.

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s dive into creating your delicious BBQ Chicken Quesadillas!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

Step 1: Preheat the Skillet
Begin by preheating a non-stick skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes. This allows the pan to reach an optimal temperature for cooking your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas evenly, ensuring a perfectly crispy texture on the outside. You’ll know it’s ready when a droplet of water sizzles and evaporates upon contact.

Step 2: Combine Chicken and BBQ Sauce
In a small saucepan, gently warm your BBQ sauce over low heat for about 2 minutes, making it easier to combine with the shredded chicken. Once warmed, add the shredded chicken into the pan and stir until each piece is generously coated with the flavorful sauce. The aroma should start filling your kitchen, setting the stage for delicious quesadillas.

Step 3: Layer the Quesadilla
On one tortilla, sprinkle a generous layer of Monterey Jack cheese, followed by a portion of the BBQ chicken mixture, diced red onion, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Then, place another tortilla on top, pressing gently to secure the fillings. This layering will create a melty, flavor-packed center that everyone will love in your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas.

Step 4: Cook One Side
Carefully place the layered quesadilla into your preheated skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom tortilla is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning; you want that beautiful golden color, as it indicates that the cheese is beginning to melt and bind the ingredients together.

Step 5: Flip the Quesadilla
Using a large spatula, gently flip the quesadilla over to cook the other side. Allow it to cook for another 3-4 minutes until the second side is also golden brown and crispy. The cheese inside should be melted and oozy, promising a delightful bite of your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas once you cut into it.

Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once both sides are perfectly golden, remove the quesadilla from the skillet onto a cutting board. Let it sit for a minute before slicing it into wedges with a sharp knife. Serve your delicious BBQ Chicken Quesadillas warm, alongside extra BBQ sauce and your favorite toppings for dipping. Each bite will be a warm, cheesy embrace that brings the family together!

Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

Heat Control: Maintain medium heat while cooking to prevent burning or sogginess. This allows your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
Don’t Overfill: Avoid the temptation to pack in too much filling; overfilling can cause spillage when flipping, leading to a messy result.
Cheese Layering: Layer cheese both above and below the filling for better structural integrity. This ensures a melty, cohesive filling in your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas.
Customization is Key: Feel free to swap in your favorite BBQ sauce or add roasted veggies. This versatility makes each BBQ Chicken Quesadilla a unique culinary experience.
Serving Options: Consider pairing your quesadillas with a refreshing dip or side salad. This enhances the overall meal experience and adds a contrasting texture.

How to Store and Freeze BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

Fridge: Allow cooked BBQ Chicken Quesadillas to cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.

Freezer: For longer storage, tightly wrap cooled quesadillas in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, or use a skillet over medium-low heat for a few minutes on each side for a crispy finish.

Thawing: If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to ensure even cooking and to preserve the delicious flavor of your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas.

What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

As you prepare to savor the mouthwatering flavors of your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas, consider these delightful sides to elevate your meal experience.

Crisp Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy quesadillas.
Coleslaw: The crunch and tang of coleslaw complements the rich flavors of the quesadillas perfectly, adding a delightful texture.
Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip paired with tortilla chips can enhance your meal, offering a smooth, rich flavor that contrasts lovely with the barbecue chicken.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky grilled corn adds a pop of color and flavor, making it a hearty side that resonates perfectly with BBQ dishes.
Roasted Vegetables: A mixture of seasonal roasted veggies provides a vibrant, nutritious addition, balancing the richness of the quesadillas.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing drinks like iced tea or homemade lemonade can quench your thirst and keep the meal light and enjoyable.
Brownies or Fruit Salad: For dessert, serve fudgy brownies for a sweet finish or a light fruit salad for a healthier option to cleanse the palate.

Make Ahead Options

These BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the BBQ chicken mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply combine your shredded chicken with your chosen barbecue sauce and transfer it to an airtight container. Additionally, you can prep the quesadilla assembly by layering cheese and any desired veggies between the tortillas, then wrap them in plastic wrap or parchment paper to prevent them from sticking. When ready to serve, just heat your skillet, cook the quesadillas for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy, and enjoy a quick, delicious dinner that feels indulgent but requires minimal effort!

BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Variations

Feel free to get creative with your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas—there are so many delicious ways to customize them!

Spicy BBQ Sauce: Add a spicy BBQ sauce or mix in chipotle peppers for that extra kick. Your taste buds will thank you for this exciting twist!
Roasted Veggies: Incorporate roasted peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. These veggies lend a delightful texture to your quesadillas.
Swap the Tortillas: Use whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas to suit dietary preferences—perfect for guests with different needs! They will deliver that same satisfying crunch.
Low-Carb Option: Try using cauliflower tortillas for a lighter, guilt-free version that fits well into low-carb diets. Each bite remains flavorful and satisfying!
Vegetarian Delight: Replace the chicken with grilled vegetables or a bean mix for a hearty veggie-packed alternative. This version offers delightful flavors and is great for meatless nights!
Cheesy Variations: Mix different cheeses, such as cheddar or pepper jack, into the filling for enhanced flavor and creaminess. You might just create a new family favorite!
Add Crunch: Toss in crispy bacon bits or fried onions for a savory crunch that takes your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas to the next level. This addition adds a delightful surprise in every bite!
Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano into the filling for a fresh, aromatic quality. This variation can brighten up the overall flavor wonderfully!

Remember, customizing your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas can make every meal a new experience. Explore these variations, and don’t forget to check out our High Protein Chicken Orzo for more easy dinner ideas!

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Recipe FAQs

What type of tortillas should I use for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?
You can use flour, whole wheat, or gluten-free tortillas based on your preference. Flour tortillas offer a classic chewier texture, while whole wheat adds a nutty flavor and gluten-free options cater to those with dietary restrictions. I often recommend trying a few varieties to discover which one your family loves best!

How should I store leftover BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?
Allow your cooked quesadillas to cool completely. Afterward, wrap them tightly in parchment paper or foil, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain freshness and prevent them from getting soggy. You can also freeze them for longer storage!

Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Quesadillas, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas, first let them cool completely. Then, carefully wrap each quesadilla in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, and they’ll stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What if my BBQ Chicken Quesadillas turn out soggy?
If you find your quesadillas are soggy, ensure that you’re using medium heat while cooking; too low might not allow proper crisping. Additionally, layer the cheese both underneath and above the filling for better texture. If using wet ingredients, try reducing the amount or patting them dry. This will help achieve that ideal crispy exterior!

Are BBQ Chicken Quesadillas safe to share with pets?
It’s important to keep our furry friends in mind! While plain chicken is usually fine for pets, BBQ sauce can contain ingredients that are harmful to them, like onions and excessive salt. I recommend keeping the quesadillas to yourself and sticking to pet-friendly treats for your beloved companions.

What if I have a BBQ sauce allergy?
No need to worry! You can easily customize BBQ Chicken Quesadillas to fit your dietary needs. Try using a homemade sauce that’s allergy-friendly or simply opt for a flavorful marinade like teriyaki or a spicy salsa. This way, you won’t miss out on deliciousness, and everyone can enjoy their own versions!