Bbq Chicken Quesadillas

Let me tell you about a dish that has quickly become a staple in my kitchen: Bbq Chicken Quesadillas. Picture this: crispy, golden-brown tortillas filled with tender, smoky chicken slathered in zesty barbecue sauce, and melty cheese that stretches just right with every bite. What makes these quesadillas truly special is the perfect balance of flavors and textures that come together effortlessly, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a casual gathering, these quesadillas are sure to win hearts. They’re versatile too! You can customize them with your favorite veggies or even switch up the cheese to suit your taste. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a delicious, satisfying meal that everyone will love. So, grab your skillet, and let’s dive into making these irresistible Bbq Chicken Quesadillas!

Ingredient Notes

When making BBQ chicken quesadillas, the quality of your ingredients can truly make a difference. Here are the key ingredients and some substitutions you might consider:

Chicken: I prefer using cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience, but you can also grill or sauté chicken breasts or thighs. For a vegetarian option, try using shredded jackfruit or mushrooms, which can mimic the texture of chicken.
BBQ Sauce: A good quality BBQ sauce is essential for flavor. Feel free to use your favorite brand, or make your own using ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices. For a non-alcoholic alternative, ensure the sauce is alcohol-free, as some brands may contain beer or wine.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is my go-to for quesadillas, but you can also mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a little kick. If you need a dairy-free option, try vegan cheese shreds that melt well.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are traditional for quesadillas, but corn tortillas work wonderfully too, especially if you want a gluten-free option.
Vegetables: Adding veggies like bell peppers, onions, or corn can enhance flavor and texture. Feel free to customize based on what you have on hand.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making BBQ chicken quesadillas is easy and fun! Here’s how I prepare them:

Prepare the Chicken: If using rotisserie chicken, shred the meat and place it in a mixing bowl. If you’re cooking chicken from scratch, season it with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices, then cook thoroughly before shredding.
Mix with BBQ Sauce: Add your BBQ sauce to the shredded chicken. I usually start with about ½ cup and mix until the chicken is well coated. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
Heat the Tortilla: In a large skillet over medium heat, lightly grease the pan with cooking spray or a small amount of oil. Place one tortilla in the skillet and let it warm for about 30 seconds.
Add Filling: On one half of the tortilla, layer a generous amount of the BBQ chicken mixture, followed by a sprinkle of cheese and any optional vegetables. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make folding difficult.
Fold and Cook: Carefully fold the tortilla over the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to flip and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes.
Repeat: Continue the process with the remaining tortillas and filling until everything is cooked. You can keep the finished quesadillas warm in a low-temperature oven if needed.
Slice and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the quesadillas to a cutting board. Use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife to slice them into wedges. Serve with additional BBQ sauce, sour cream, or guacamole on the side for dipping.

Tips & Suggestions

Here are some tips to elevate your BBQ chicken quesadilla game:

Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to mix different types of BBQ sauces or add spices to the chicken mixture for a unique twist.
Use a Panini Press: If you have a panini press, it’s a great way to achieve perfectly crispy quesadillas with minimal effort.
Make it a Meal: Serve your quesadillas with a side salad or some homemade coleslaw for a complete and satisfying meal.
Family Fun: Get the kids involved in assembling their own quesadillas! This can be a fun and interactive meal prep experience.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the BBQ chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a quick meal during the week.

Storage

If you have leftovers (which I often do because they’re so filling), here’s how to store them:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the fridge. They should be good for up to 3 days.
Freezing: To freeze, let the quesadillas cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating: For best results, reheat quesadillas in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy. If reheating from frozen, thaw them in the fridge overnight and then reheat.

Enjoy your BBQ chicken quesadillas! They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends. Happy cooking!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious meal that brings everyone together, look no further than these Bbq Chicken Quesadillas. They’re the perfect blend of savory, smoky, and cheesy goodness, with just the right amount of crunch. What I love about this recipe is its versatility; you can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or switch up the protein to suit your taste. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, Bbq Chicken Quesadillas are sure to impress and satisfy. So grab your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite!