When busy weeknights leave little time for creativity in the kitchen, I’ve found that my Savory BBQ Chicken Quesadillas come to the rescue like a culinary superhero. The sound of chicken sizzling as it mingles with zesty BBQ sauce creates an instant invitation to gather around the table. Just imagine biting into a perfectly golden quesadilla, cheese stretching, and that smoky, sweet flavor dancing on your palate.
I stumbled upon this winning combination on a particularly hectic evening when takeout wasn’t an option, and I’ve never looked back. These quesadillas are not only quick and effortless—taking just 30 minutes—but they also turn leftover chicken into a show-stopping dish. With the addition of crispy red onions and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, they are sure to please the whole family, whether you’re a home cook or a seasoned chef looking for something fun and uncomplicated. So, let’s dive into this delicious recipe that promises to bring joy back to your dining table!
Why You'll Love This Savory BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
- These Savory BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are incredibly easy to make, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- The flavor combination of smoky BBQ sauce and melted cheese creates a deliciously satisfying experience with every bite.
- Their versatility allows you to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients or adjust the level of spice to suit your taste.
- With a golden, crispy exterior and mouthwatering filling, these quesadillas are visually appealing and make for a crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will enjoy.
Savory BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Ingredients
For the Quesadilla Filling
• Cooked chicken, shredded – 2 cups – This is the star ingredient, bringing protein and heartiness to your quesadillas.
• BBQ sauce – 1 cup – Choose your favorite brand for that tasty smoky flavor, essential for these Savory BBQ Chicken Quesadillas.
• Shredded cheese – 1 cup – Opt for cheddar or mozzarella; both melt beautifully and add creaminess.
For the Tortilla Base
• Flour tortillas – 4 large – Use large tortillas for better stability when filling and folding.
• Olive oil – 1 tablespoon – Helps crisp the quesadillas to golden perfection while cooking.
For the Crunch and Freshness
• Diced red onion – 1/2 cup – Adds a sweet crunch that balances the savory flavors.
• Chopped fresh cilantro (optional) – 1/2 cup – Elevates the dish with a fresh herbal note; feel free to leave it out if you’re not a fan.
How to Make Savory BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
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Combine the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce in a mixing bowl. Mix until every piece is coated in that tasty, tangy sauce. This step sets the foundation for all that deliciousness!
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Stir in the diced red onion and half of the shredded cheese to the chicken mixture. This adds a perfect crunch to your filling along with cheesy goodness, making every bite irresistible.
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Heat your skillet over medium heat and pour in a tablespoon of olive oil. Wait until it shimmers—this ensures a crispy exterior on your quesadillas that you’ll love.
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Layer one tortilla in the skillet and scoop half of the chicken mixture onto one half. Sprinkle cilantro if desired, and top with a quarter of the remaining cheese. Fold the tortilla over your filling for a classic quesadilla shape.
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Cook the quesadilla for about 3-4 minutes until it’s golden brown and the cheese starts to melt. Keep an eye on it; you want that beautiful color for the ultimate flavor!
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Flip the quesadilla gently using a spatula, and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until it’s just as golden and crispy. This creates a perfectly cooked, deliciously cheesy treat.
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Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it rest for a minute. Slice into wedges for easy serving, and repeat with the second tortilla to delight even more taste buds!
Optional: Serve with a side of salsa or sour cream for extra dipping joy!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Savory BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?
Complement your culinary creation with these delightful pairings that will elevate your dining experience.
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The slight sweetness and texture contrast with the savory quesadillas make for a delightful side.
- Fresh Guacamole: A creamy dip that brings a cool, refreshing balance to the smoky, rich flavors of the quesadillas.
- Coleslaw: Crisp and tangy, this side adds crunch and brightness, perfect for cutting through the rich cheese.
- Corn Salad: A seasonal mix of sweet corn, lime, and cilantro will enhance the BBQ flavors and add a festive flair.
- Simple Green Salad: Light and refreshing with a zesty vinaigrette, this salad offers a wonderful contrast to the hearty quesadillas.
- Spicy Salsa: For those who crave warmth, a homemade or store-bought salsa provides a delightful kick that pairs beautifully with the quesadillas.
These additions transform your meal into a feast, perfect for casual gatherings or cozy family dinners. Enjoy the harmony of flavors these sides bring to your table!
How to Store and Freeze Savory BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Fridge: Store leftover Savory BBQ Chicken Quesadillas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Always let them cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each quesadilla tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months, ensuring you have a quick meal ready to go.
Reheating: For best results, reheat frozen quesadillas in a skillet over medium heat, flipping until heated through. Alternatively, microwave for 1-2 minutes wrapped in a damp paper towel to maintain moisture.
Savory BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Variations
Feel free to mix and match ingredients for your own spin on these delicious quesadillas!
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Smoky Chipotle: Add 1-2 tablespoons of chipotle sauce to the BBQ mix for a smoky kick that dances on your taste buds. It’s the perfect twist if you love a bit of heat!
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Veggie-Packed: Throw in bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. This variation transforms your quesadillas into a colorful medley that appeals to both veggies lovers and carnivores alike.
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Spicy Salsa: Swap out BBQ sauce for a fiery salsa verde or hot salsa for a fresh burst of heat. This gives your quesadillas a bright, tangy dimension that is truly irresistible.
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Cheesy Jalapeño: Mix sliced jalapeños into the cheese for an extra kick. This combo creates a delightful heat that harmonizes beautifully with the creamy texture of the melted cheese.
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Whole Wheat Tortillas: Use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option that adds fiber. They hold up just as well but offer a nuttier flavor, elevating every bite of your savory goodness.
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Pulled Pork Delight: Replace chicken with pulled pork for a different but equally delicious take. The tenderness and richness of the pork harmonize perfectly with the BBQ sauce.
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Breakfast Quesadilla: Swap the BBQ sauce for scrambled eggs and add some diced tomatoes and bell peppers for a hearty breakfast twist. Enjoy these quesadillas in the morning for a delightful start to your day!
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Tropical Twist: Incorporate some diced pineapple into your chicken mixture for a sweet and savory contrast. This unique combo adds a fun touch and tropical flair to your quesadilla experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Savory BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are ideal for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the chicken mixture (shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, diced red onion, and half of the cheese) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, just heat the skillet and follow the remaining steps to assemble and cook your quesadillas. This approach not only saves time during hectic evenings but also ensures that your meal is just as delicious, with all the flavors melding beautifully overnight. Enjoy the convenience while treating your family to a tasty homemade dish!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Savory BBQ Chicken Quesadillas, make sure to thoroughly combine the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- A common mistake is overcrowding the skillet; cook one quesadilla at a time for the best crispiness.
- When adding cheese, mix it into the chicken filling for a gooey texture rather than just layering it on top.
- Cook your quesadillas on medium heat to achieve that perfect golden brown crust without burning the outside before the cheese melts.
Savory BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for the quesadilla filling?
I recommend using cooked chicken that’s already shredded, like rotisserie chicken, as it saves time and adds flavor. You can also use leftover grilled chicken, but make sure it’s seasoned to your liking!
How should I store leftover quesadillas?
Store leftover Savory BBQ Chicken Quesadillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let them cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture build-up, which can make them soggy.
Can Savory BBQ Chicken Quesadillas be frozen? How?
Absolutely! To freeze them, wrap each quesadilla tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What is the best method for reheating quesadillas?
The best way to reheat them is in a skillet over medium heat. Cook until they’re heated through and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. You can also microwave them for 1-2 minutes, but wrap them in a damp paper towel to keep them moist.
Can I make Savory BBQ Chicken Quesadillas vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with a mix of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini. For added protein, consider using black beans or plant-based chicken alternatives for a hearty filling.
What if my BBQ sauce is too spicy for my taste?
If you find that the BBQ sauce is too spicy, try mixing it with a little honey or ketchup to mellow the heat. You can also choose a milder BBQ sauce brand for a less intense flavor without sacrificing that sweet and smoky taste.
Equipment
- skillet
Ingredients
Quesadilla Filling
- 2 cups Cooked chicken, shredded This is the star ingredient, bringing protein and heartiness to your quesadillas.
- 1 cup BBQ sauce Choose your favorite brand for that tasty smoky flavor.
- 1 cup Shredded cheese Opt for cheddar or mozzarella; both melt beautifully.
Tortilla Base
- 4 large Flour tortillas Use large tortillas for better stability.
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil Helps crisp the quesadillas.
Crunch and Freshness
- 1/2 cup Diced red onion Adds a sweet crunch.
- 1/2 cup Chopped fresh cilantro Optional, for added freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Combine the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce in a mixing bowl. Mix until every piece is coated.
- Stir in the diced red onion and half of the shredded cheese to the chicken mixture.
- Heat your skillet over medium heat and pour in a tablespoon of olive oil.
- Layer one tortilla in the skillet and scoop half of the chicken mixture onto one half. Sprinkle cilantro if desired, and top with a quarter of the remaining cheese. Fold the tortilla over.
- Cook the quesadilla for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cheese starts to melt.
- Flip the quesadilla gently using a spatula, and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it rest for a minute. Slice into wedges and repeat with the second tortilla.
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