Easy BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Recipe

Introduction and Quick Summary

Have you ever craved a meal that combines smoky barbecue flavor with gooey cheese? If so, the Bbq Chicken Quesadilla is your answer! This delightful dish brings together tender chunks of chicken, zesty barbecue sauce, and bubbling cheese all tucked inside a warm tortilla. It’s not just food; it’s an experience that captures the essence of comfort and satisfaction in every bite.

Imagine biting into a crispy exterior only to reveal a melty interior bursting with flavor. The aroma of grilled chicken mingled with tangy barbecue sauce fills the air, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Whether you’re serving it at a weekend barbecue or whipping it up on a busy weeknight, this dish promises to elevate any occasion. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Bbq Chicken Quesadilla

  • Quick and Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. You can have these delicious quesadillas on the table in under 30 minutes.
  • Versatile Ingredients: Customize your quesadilla with your favorite toppings such as jalapeños, onions, or extra cheese. You can even swap out chicken for beef or vegetables based on your preferences.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a good quesadilla! Whether it’s kids or adults, this dish is sure to satisfy any palate and leave guests raving about its irresistible flavors.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. They reheat beautifully, allowing you to enjoy tasty meals throughout the week with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Bbq Chicken Quesadilla

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

  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 2-3 breasts depending on serving size; they cook quickly and provide a great source of protein.
  • BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version for the best flavor; sweet or tangy options work well.
  • Shredded Cheese: A blend of cheddar and mozzarella gives the best melt; feel free to use pre-shredded for convenience.
  • Tortillas: Flour tortillas are preferred for their softness; you can also use whole wheat or corn tortillas if desired.

For the optional toppings:

  • Jalapeños: Fresh or pickled add a spicy kick; adjust based on your heat preference.
  • Sour Cream: A dollop adds creaminess that balances out the flavors beautifully.

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

How to Make Bbq Chicken Quesadilla

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear them in the skillet for about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest before shredding.

Step 2: Shred the Chicken

Once cooled slightly, shred the cooked chicken using two forks into bite-sized pieces. Transfer it into a mixing bowl.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add your BBQ sauce to the shredded chicken and mix well until evenly coated. Adjust the amount of sauce based on personal preference.

Step 4: Assemble Quesadillas

Heat another skillet over medium heat. Place one tortilla in the skillet and layer half of it with shredded cheese followed by the BBQ chicken mixture. Top with more cheese before folding over.

Step 5: Cook Until Golden Brown

Cook each side of the quesadilla for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy while ensuring that cheese melts completely inside.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer to plates once done cooking. Cut into wedges and serve immediately with optional toppings like sour cream or jalapeños.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

  • Use Leftover Chicken: If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, use it instead of cooking fresh chicken; it saves time!
  • Experiment with Flavors: Try adding different sauces like ranch dressing or hot sauce for extra flavor variations.
  • Crispier Tortillas: For extra crispiness, lightly spray both sides of tortillas with cooking spray before cooking them on the skillet.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Overcooking the Chicken: One of the most common mistakes when making BBQ chicken quesadilla is overcooking the chicken. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough, ruining the overall taste and texture of your quesadilla. Always cook your chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and let it rest before shredding. This will help retain moisture and ensure a juicy filling.
  • Using Too Much BBQ Sauce: While BBQ sauce adds delicious flavor, using too much can make your quesadilla soggy. Aim for a balanced amount that complements the chicken without overpowering it. Start with a couple of tablespoons, mix well, and adjust according to your taste preferences. A light coating will allow the other flavors to shine through.
  • Piling on Too Many Ingredients: It may be tempting to add all your favorite ingredients into one quesadilla, but this can lead to a messy and hard-to-cook dish. Stick to a few key ingredients—like shredded chicken, cheese, and a small amount of veggies—for optimal melting and flavor distribution. A well-balanced quesadilla is more enjoyable than one overflowing with ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

This Bbq Chicken Quesadilla is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

  • Fresh Salsa: A vibrant salsa complements the smoky flavors of the quesadilla. You can prepare a classic tomato salsa or a refreshing mango salsa for a sweet twist.
  • Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness to the dish. Its smooth texture and zesty flavor enhance your experience with every bite.
  • Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a cooling contrast to the spicy ingredients in the quesadilla, making it more enjoyable.

FAQs

FAQs

What is the best cheese for Bbq Chicken Quesadilla?

When making a Bbq Chicken Quesadilla, cheese plays a crucial role in creating that gooey, melty texture. The best cheese options include Monterey Jack, which melts beautifully and has a mild flavor. Cheddar is another excellent choice as it adds a sharp taste that complements the sweetness of barbecue sauce. For an extra kick, consider adding pepper jack cheese, which incorporates spicy peppers. Mixing different cheeses can also elevate your quesadilla, giving you varied textures and flavors.

Can I make Bbq Chicken Quesadilla ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Bbq Chicken Quesadillas ahead of time! To do this, assemble your quesadillas but do not cook them yet. Place them between sheets of parchment paper so they don’t stick together and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy them, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook until golden brown on both sides. This method saves time and allows you to serve fresh quesadillas quickly when guests arrive.

How do I store leftover Bbq Chicken Quesadilla?

Storing leftover Bbq Chicken Quesadilla is simple! Allow any uneaten quesadillas to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place them in an airtight container for added freshness. Store the quesadillas in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you wish to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just remember to separate layers with parchment paper before freezing to prevent sticking.

Can I customize my Bbq Chicken Quesadilla fillings?

Absolutely! Customizing your Bbq Chicken Quesadilla is part of the fun. You can add various vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. Feel free to experiment with different meats; shredded pork or beef will also work well with barbecue sauce. For a vegetarian version, swap out chicken for black beans or roasted veggies. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a quesadilla tailored to your tastes!

Conclusion for Bbq Chicken Quesadilla

In summary, the Bbq Chicken Quesadilla offers a delightful blend of flavors that make it an ideal meal or snack option. By using quality ingredients like tender chicken and melted cheese combined with savory barbecue sauce, you create a dish that everyone will love. Pairing it with fresh salsa, guacamole, or sour cream enhances its appeal even more. Whether you’re preparing it for family dinners or casual get-togethers with friends, this recipe ensures satisfaction all around. Don’t hesitate to customize your quesadillas to suit personal preferences; versatility is key! Enjoy crafting your perfect BBQ Chicken Quesadilla today!

Print

BBQ Chicken Quesadilla

BBQ Chicken Quesadilla is a mouthwatering dish that brings together the smoky flavor of barbecue sauce, tender chicken, and gooey melted cheese, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this easy-to-make recipe guarantees satisfaction in every bite.

  • Author: Mason Recipes
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Ingredients

Scale
  • 23 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella blend)
  • 4 flour tortillas
  • Optional toppings: jalapeños and sour cream

Instructions

  1. Cook the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Let it rest before shredding.
  2. Shred the cooled chicken and mix it with BBQ sauce in a bowl.
  3. In another skillet over medium heat, place one tortilla down and layer half with shredded cheese and BBQ chicken mixture. Top with more cheese and fold over.
  4. Cook each quesadilla for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Cut into wedges, serve warm with optional toppings.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 quesadilla (180g)
  • Calories: 440
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 890mg
  • Fat: 21g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time. Experiment with different cheeses or add vegetables like bell peppers for extra flavor. Lightly spray tortillas with cooking spray for added crispiness.

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