Introduction to BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to dinner. That’s why I absolutely love making BBQ Chicken Quesadillas! They’re not just a quick solution for a hectic day; they’re also a delightful way to bring the family together around the table. Imagine tender chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and gooey cheese all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. It’s a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress your loved ones. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, making them a go-to recipe in my kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
These BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are a lifesaver for busy nights. They come together in just 25 minutes, making them perfect for those evenings when time is tight. The combination of smoky BBQ flavor and melted cheese is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re versatile! You can customize them with your favorite ingredients, ensuring everyone at the table leaves happy. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your meal rotation!
Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making delicious BBQ Chicken Quesadillas. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cooked chicken, shredded: This is the star of the show! Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own for a fresh taste.
- BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version. The sauce adds that smoky, tangy flavor that makes these quesadillas shine.
- Shredded cheese: Cheddar or mozzarella works beautifully. Cheese brings creaminess and binds everything together, creating that gooey goodness.
- Flour tortillas: Large tortillas are perfect for wrapping up all the delicious filling. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free options if you prefer.
- Olive oil: A little oil in the skillet helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior. You can substitute with butter for a richer flavor.
- Optional: Chopped green onions for garnish add a fresh crunch and a pop of color. Feel free to get creative with additional ingredients like bell peppers or onions!
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Making BBQ Chicken Quesadillas is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
Start by mixing the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce in a bowl. Make sure every piece of chicken is well coated. This is where the magic begins! The BBQ sauce adds a tangy kick that makes these quesadillas irresistible.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Next, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. The oil will help create that crispy, golden exterior we all love. If you prefer a richer flavor, feel free to use butter instead!
Step 3: Assemble the Quesadilla
Now it’s time to assemble! Place one tortilla in the skillet. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on one half of the tortilla. Then, add half of the BBQ chicken mixture on top of the cheese. Fold the tortilla over to cover the filling. This is where the quesadilla starts to take shape!
Step 4: Cook Until Golden
Cook the quesadilla for about 3-4 minutes on one side until it’s golden brown. Then, flip it over and cook for another 3-4 minutes. You want the cheese to melt and the other side to turn golden as well. The aroma will be heavenly!
Step 5: Repeat and Serve
Once the first quesadilla is done, remove it from the skillet and repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling. After slicing them into wedges, serve hot. You can garnish with chopped green onions for an extra touch. Enjoy your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas!
Tips for Success
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option.
- Don’t overload the quesadilla; too much filling can make it hard to flip.
- Keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the tortillas.
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
- Serve with your favorite dips like sour cream or guacamole for added flavor.
Equipment Needed
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet works best, but any frying pan will do.
- Spatula: A sturdy spatula helps flip the quesadillas without breaking them.
- Mixing bowl: Use any bowl to mix the chicken and BBQ sauce.
- Knife: A sharp knife is essential for slicing the quesadillas.
Variations
- Spicy BBQ Chicken Quesadillas: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with black beans or grilled vegetables for a delicious meat-free version.
- Cheesy BBQ Chicken Quesadillas: Use a blend of cheeses like pepper jack and cheddar for an extra cheesy experience.
- Southwestern Twist: Incorporate corn, black beans, and diced bell peppers into the filling for a southwestern flair.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortillas to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve with creamy guacamole or zesty sour cream for dipping.
- A chilled glass of iced tea or lemonade complements the flavors perfectly.
- For a fun presentation, cut quesadillas into triangles and arrange them on a colorful platter.
FAQs about BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
As you embark on your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas journey, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with helpful answers!
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover chicken is perfect for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas. It saves time and adds great flavor. Just shred it and mix with the BBQ sauce!
What type of BBQ sauce works best?
It really depends on your taste! A tangy or smoky BBQ sauce enhances the flavor beautifully. Feel free to experiment with different brands or even homemade versions!
Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge. Just assemble and cook the quesadillas when you’re ready to eat!
What can I serve with BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?
These quesadillas pair wonderfully with sides like a fresh salad, guacamole, or sour cream. A refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade complements the meal perfectly!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover BBQ Chicken Quesadillas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat them in a skillet for a quick meal!
Final Thoughts
Making BBQ Chicken Quesadillas is more than just cooking; it’s about creating moments. The joy of watching my family gather around the table, eagerly waiting for that first bite, warms my heart. This recipe is a reminder that delicious meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a dish that brings smiles and satisfaction. So, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual get-together, these quesadillas are sure to be a hit. I hope you enjoy making them as much as I do!
Print
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas: A Must-Try Flavor Combo!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and melted cheese, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until well coated.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
- Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on one half of the tortilla.
- Add half of the BBQ chicken mixture on top of the cheese.
- Fold the tortilla over to cover the filling and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the quesadilla and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and the other side is golden brown.
- Remove from the skillet and repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Slice into wedges and serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Notes
- Feel free to customize with additional ingredients like bell peppers or onions.
- Serve with sour cream or guacamole for dipping.
- Leftover quesadillas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 quesadilla
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
