BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Recipe

If you’re ready for a meal that’s truly the definition of crowd-pleasing comfort food, let me introduce you to the BBQ Chicken Quesadilla. It has melty cheese, zesty barbecue sauce, tender chicken, and a golden, crispy tortilla—all fused together in a single, glorious bite. Whether it’s lunchtime, dinnertime, or party snack time, this quesadilla never lets you down!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of a fantastic BBQ Chicken Quesadilla is all in the ingredients. Every component plays a role: juicy chicken for protein, tangy sauce for flavor, cheeses for that gooey perfection, and a tortilla ready to crisp up beautifully. Here’s what brings this masterpiece to life:

• Olive oil: Just a touch is needed to gently cook the onions, coaxing out their natural sweetness.
• Sliced red onions: These add a little crunch and a hint of sharpness, balancing out the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
• Cooked chicken breast (shredded): Leftover or rotisserie chicken is perfect—tear it into hearty chunks for a truly satisfying filling.
• BBQ sauce: Go for your favorite variety! Smoky, spicy, or sweet—this is what gives your quesadilla that signature zing.
• Burrito-size tortillas (10–12 inch): Big, sturdy tortillas hold in all the cheesy, saucy goodness.
• Butter (room temperature): Spreading this on the tortillas creates a perfectly golden, crisp exterior.
• Shredded cheddar-jack cheese: The ultimate melty combo—cheddar for sharpness and jack for creamy meltiness.
• Optional for serving: Add cilantro, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or even ranch dip for extra fun and flavor.

Variations

One of the things I love about a BBQ Chicken Quesadilla is how easy it is to make it your own. Whether you’re working with what you’ve got on hand or accommodating dietary needs, there’s so much room to get creative!

• Veggie Lovers: Swap in sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn for a flavorful, meatless twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to set those taste buds buzzing.
• Different Cheeses: Use pepper jack or smoked gouda for a new layer of flavor.
• Low-Carb Option: Try using a low-carb tortilla or even crisp lettuce wraps for a lighter variation.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Quesadilla

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding the olive oil and sliced red onions. Let them cook for about five minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re meltingly tender and their natural sweetness comes forward.

Step 2: Mix the Chicken Filling

Add your shredded chicken and BBQ sauce directly to the skillet with those beautiful onions. Stir everything together until the chicken is thoroughly coated and warmed through, then set the mixture aside while you prep the tortillas.

Step 3: Butter the Tortillas

On a flat surface, generously spread softened butter onto one side of each tortilla. This is the secret to that golden, crispy, restaurant-style finish you love!

Step 4: Assemble and Cook the BBQ Chicken Quesadilla

Heat another large skillet over medium heat. Place one tortilla butter-side down in the pan. Sprinkle ¼ cup of cheese on one half, then spoon on half of your BBQ chicken mixture, followed by another ¼ cup of cheese. Fold the tortilla in half and cook until the bottom is gorgeously golden. Flip carefully, press gently with your spatula, and let the other side crisp up just as beautifully.

Step 5: Let Rest and Slice

Once your quesadilla is cooked to perfection, transfer it to a cutting board or wire rack while you make the next one. This helps the cheese set slightly, making slicing into neat wedges easy and mess-free. Serve immediately while still wonderfully hot and melty!

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Quesadilla

Garnishes

Top your BBQ Chicken Quesadilla slices with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and fresh zing. Add dollops of sour cream, creamy guacamole, or a spoonful of salsa for even more flavor with every bite.

Side Dishes

This quesadilla loves company! Try serving alongside a crisp green salad, sweet corn on the cob, or black beans and rice. Even a tangy slaw or a bowl of tortilla chips will round out your BBQ Chicken Quesadilla feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your BBQ Chicken Quesadilla into wedges and stack them high on a platter with colorful dips and toppings on the side—perfect for parties! Or, make mini versions using smaller tortillas for fun, appetizer-sized bites. Serve on a wooden board for rustic, shareable charm.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover BBQ Chicken Quesadilla slices, let them cool slightly, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors stay amazing, and they’re super convenient for a quick meal or snack!

Freezing

To freeze, layer cooled quesadilla wedges between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat for BBQ goodness anytime you crave it—so perfect for busy weeks or late-night snacks.

Reheating

Reheat your BBQ Chicken Quesadilla in a skillet over medium-low heat to restore its crispy exterior and melty middle. For a quick option, pop slices in the oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes; the microwave works too, but for best texture use the stove or oven.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something warm, hearty, and downright delicious, give this BBQ Chicken Quesadilla a whirl. It’s so easy and bursting with barbecue flavor—a little smoky, a little tangy, and totally irresistible. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own!

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