BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
This BBQ Chicken Quesadilla is a flavor-packed delight that’s easy to whip up. Perfect for lunch, a light supper, an after-school snack, or a game-changing appetizer, these quesadillas are sure to impress. With tender shredded chicken mixed with zesty BBQ sauce and gooey cheddar cheese, every bite bursts with taste. They’re also versatile enough to suit any occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The combination of BBQ chicken and melted cheese creates a deliciously satisfying meal.
- Versatile: Enjoy them as a main dish, snack, or appetizer; they work for any occasion!
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness and can help in the preparation.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like jalapeños or onions for extra flavor.

Tools and Preparation
For this BBQ Chicken Quesadilla recipe, you’ll need some essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet ensures even heating and browning of your quesadillas.
- Mixing bowl: Using a mixing bowl makes it easy to combine ingredients without mess.
- Spatula: A spatula helps flip the quesadilla without breaking it, keeping all that delicious filling intact.
Ingredients
To make these tasty BBQ Chicken Quesadillas, gather the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups chicken (shredded)
- 1 1/2 cups BBQ sauce
- 6 tortillas (8 inch)
- 2 cups cheddar cheese
How to Make BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a large medium bowl, mix together the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce. Ensure the chicken is well-coated with the sauce for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Heat the Tortilla
Heat one side of a tortilla in a clean skillet over low-medium heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Quesadilla
Sprinkle cheddar cheese on half of the tortilla. Add a portion of the BBQ chicken mixture on top of the cheese. Then sprinkle more cheese over the chicken for extra gooeyness.
Step 4: Cook Until Golden Brown
Fold the tortilla in half. Flip it over gently to warm the other side until you see some brown spots forming. Repeat this step with remaining tortillas.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Slice your quesadillas into wedges and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Quesadillas!
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are versatile and can be served in numerous ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a casual meal, these quesadillas can fit any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
As a Game-Day Snack
- Serve the quesadillas with a side of salsa and guacamole for an exciting game-day treat.
With a Fresh Salad
- Pair them with a simple green salad topped with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Alongside Homemade Coleslaw
- Accompany your quesadillas with creamy coleslaw to add crunch and creaminess that complements the BBQ taste.
With Dipping Sauces
- Offer a variety of dipping sauces like ranch dressing or sour cream to enhance the flavor profile.
How to Perfect BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
To make your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas even better, here are some tips to consider. These suggestions will help you achieve deliciously crispy and flavorful quesadillas every time.
- Use fresh tortillas: Fresh tortillas cook up crispier and have better flavor compared to stale ones.
- Grate your cheese: Shredded cheese melts more evenly, creating that gooey texture everyone loves.
- Don’t overload: Avoid overfilling your quesadilla; this helps prevent mess and ensures even cooking.
- Cook on medium heat: Cooking on medium heat allows the cheese to melt thoroughly while preventing burning.
- Add veggies: Consider adding diced bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Let it rest: Allow cooked quesadillas to rest for a minute before cutting; this helps maintain their shape.
Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
When serving BBQ Chicken Quesadillas, pairing them with the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness that balances the savory flavors of the quesadilla.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the dish and makes it more filling.
- Black Bean Salad: This refreshing salad adds protein and fiber, making it a healthy choice alongside your quesadilla.
- Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with zesty salsa provide a delightful contrast in texture.
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip enhances flavors and adds richness that pairs beautifully with BBQ chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color, flavor, and nutrients to round out your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making BBQ Chicken Quesadillas can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the cheese: Cheese adds essential flavor and texture. Don’t forget to sprinkle it generously on both sides of the tortilla.
- Not using enough BBQ sauce: Insufficient sauce can make the quesadillas dry. Ensure you coat the chicken well for maximum flavor.
- Overheating the skillet: A too-hot skillet can burn the tortillas. Use medium-low heat to achieve golden brown spots without charring.
- Ignoring serving temperature: Serving quesadillas too cold can lessen their appeal. Serve them hot right off the skillet for the best taste.
- Using stale tortillas: Fresh tortillas hold up better and taste great. Always check your tortillas before cooking to avoid a soggy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover BBQ Chicken Quesadillas in an airtight container.
- They last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
- Wrap each quesadilla tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about BBQ Chicken Quesadillas that may help you.
What type of chicken should I use for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?
You can use shredded rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken. Both options save time and add great flavor.
Can I customize my BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or onions, or swap cheeses for different flavors.
How do I make BBQ Chicken Quesadillas spicy?
Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce mixture for an extra kick.
What is the best way to serve BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?
Serve them hot with sides like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping.
Final Thoughts
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite ingredients, making them perfect for lunch, dinner, or a snack. Try this recipe today and enjoy the comforting flavors!
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are a delightful combination of tender, shredded chicken mixed with zesty BBQ sauce and melted cheddar cheese, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. Perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or as an appetizer at your next gathering, these quesadillas are so easy to prepare and will impress everyone at the table.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (2 quesadillas each) 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded chicken
- 1 ½ cups BBQ sauce
- 6 (8-inch) tortillas
- 2 cups cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken and BBQ sauce until well-coated.
- Heat one side of a tortilla in a skillet over low-medium heat.
- On half of the tortilla, layer cheddar cheese followed by the BBQ chicken mixture and more cheese on top.
- Fold the tortilla in half and cook until golden brown on both sides.
- Slice into wedges and serve immediately with your choice of dips.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 quesadilla (approx. 180g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg