Name: BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1/2 cup barbecue sauce; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 4 large flour tortillas; 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional); 2 tablespoons olive oil

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BBQ Chicken Quesadillas: The Perfect Easy Dinner Idea

I still remember the first time I made BBQ Chicken Quesadillas for my family. It was the kind of evening where everyone was racing through chores and homework, and we needed something quick yet delicious. With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, I whipped up these cheesy, smoky quesadillas that vanished in minutes! Not only are they a satisfying meal, but they also provide a delightful twist on the classic quesadilla. Whether you’re in a rush on a weeknight or hosting a casual gathering, this recipe is a go-to for its simplicity and mouthwatering flavor.

What Makes This Recipe Special

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas stand out for several reasons. First off, they offer a fantastic collision of flavors: the sweetness of BBQ sauce, the rich creaminess of cheddar, and the satisfying crunch of tortillas. They are quick to prepare, making them a stellar option for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners. Plus, they are versatile! Use leftover chicken, or even rotisserie chicken, and you’ll have a scrumptious meal in no time.

“This is my go-to recipe for busy nights! My kids love it, and it takes less than 30 minutes to prepare. Easy cleanup, too!” – Sarah, a happy home cook.

Preparing BBQ Chicken Quesadillas – The Perfect Easy Dinner Idea

Making these quesadillas is straightforward, and you’ll be surprised by how quickly they come together! A perfect blend of chicken, BBQ, and cheese is all you need to create this culinary delight. First, we’ll gather our ingredients, and then I’ll walk you through the simple steps to make them.

Gather Your Ingredients

To make delightful BBQ Chicken Quesadillas, you’ll need:

2 cups cooked shredded chicken (leftovers work like a charm!)
1/2 cup barbecue sauce (choose your favorite brand or homemade)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend for something different)
4 large flour tortillas
1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional but adds freshness)
2 tablespoons olive oil (for that crispy, golden outside)

Step-by-Step Directions

Combine the Chicken and Sauce: In a bowl, toss the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until it’s evenly coated.
Heat the Skillet: Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat, swirling it around.
Assemble the Quesadilla: Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of it with 1/2 cup of shredded cheese. Spread 1/2 cup of the BBQ chicken mixture over the cheese, then add another 1/2 cup of cheese on top.
Cover and Cook: Place a second tortilla over the filling. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom tortilla becomes golden and the cheese starts to melt.
Flip and Finish: Carefully flip the quesadilla using a spatula and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until golden and the cheese is fully melted.
Repeat: Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and slice it into wedges. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Serve: If desired, garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm.

Serving Ideas

The best way to serve BBQ Chicken Quesadillas? Right off the skillet! They are best enjoyed hot, crispy, and cheesy, but there are plenty of fun ways to elevate your dish:

Pair with Dips: Serve with homemade salsa, guacamole, or sour cream to enhance flavors.
Add a Salad: A simple side salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast.
Drink Suggestions: Pair with a cold beverage like lemonade, iced tea, or even a crisp beer for a relaxed meal.

Keeping BBQ Chicken Quesadillas – The Perfect Easy Dinner Idea Fresh Longer

Storing your leftover BBQ Chicken Quesadillas properly can keep them fresh for days. Here’s how:

Refrigeration: Cool the quesadillas to room temperature, then wrap individually in foil or place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: To freeze, wrap each quesadilla in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label them!
Reheating: To reheat, toss them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through. You can also use an oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.

Expert Advice

Want to take your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas to the next level? Here are some pro tips:

Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix cheeses — Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can add a beautiful flavor profile.
Veggie Additions: Add sautéed bell peppers or diced tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.
Spice it Up: If you like a kick, incorporate some jalapeños or hot sauce into your BBQ mixture for more heat.

Creative Twists

This recipe lends itself to a variety of creative spins. Here are a few ideas:

Different Sauces: Experiment by swapping out BBQ for buffalo sauce for a spicy variation.
Meat Alternatives: Try using shredded pork, beef, or even a vegetarian option like grilled mushrooms or black beans.
Different Tortillas: Instead of flour, you can use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option or even whole wheat for a healthier take.

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?

Prep time is about 10 minutes, and cooking takes approximately 10-15 minutes, making the entire process under 30 minutes.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses. A blend of cheddar and mozzarella adds a nice stretch.

How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, leftovers can last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Can I freeze un-cooked quesadillas?

Yes! Assemble your quesadillas and freeze them before cooking. Just cook them straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea or something to impress guests, BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are sure to become a beloved staple in your home. Enjoy cooking and savor every bite!

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Omnivore

Description

Quick and delicious BBQ Chicken Quesadillas made with shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, and cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
4 large flour tortillas
1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

In a bowl, toss the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat.
Place one tortilla in the skillet, sprinkle half with 1/2 cup of cheese, and spread 1/2 cup of the BBQ chicken mixture over the cheese, then add another 1/2 cup of cheese on top.
Cover with a second tortilla and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the bottom is golden and cheese starts to melt.
Carefully flip the quesadilla and cook for another 3-4 minutes until golden and cheese is fully melted.
Remove from skillet, slice into wedges, and repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm.

Notes

For extra flavor, mix cheeses or add sautéed veggies. Pair with dips for a great experience.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 400
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: quesadillas, BBQ chicken, quick dinner, easy recipe, family-friendly