After a long day filled with endless to-do lists and the usual hustle, the last thing I want is to settle for another bland takeout meal. That’s when I discovered the magic of BBQ Chicken Quesadillas. These delightful bundles of joy combine the tangy sweetness of BBQ sauce with gooey melted cheddar, all encased in a perfectly crisp tortilla. In just 20 minutes, I can whip up a dinner that not only satisfies my cravings but also brings smiles to the faces of my family.
What I love most is how customizable they are—have some cooked chicken in the fridge? Toss it in! Don’t like jalapeños? No problem! They effortlessly adapt to my family’s preferences while delivering a comforting, home-cooked vibe. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, these quesadillas never fail to impress. Let’s dive into this easy, kid-friendly recipe and turn dinner into a delicious adventure!
Why Are BBQ Chicken Quesadillas a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: Preparing these quesadillas takes only 20 minutes, making them perfect for those hectic weeknights.
Kid-Friendly: With customizable ingredients, even picky eaters will find something to love.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of BBQ sauce and melted cheddar provides a rich, smoky flavor in every bite.
Crispy, Gooey Perfection: Enjoy a fantastic contrast between the crispy tortilla and the gooey cheese filling.
Great for Gatherings: These quesadillas are easy to share, making them a crowd-pleaser at any casual get-together!
Elevate your dinner game with easy BBQ Chicken Quesadillas that everyone will adore!
BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Ingredients
For the Filling
• Chicken – Use shredded or cubed chicken for a hearty protein boost; rotisserie chicken works wonders for convenience.
• Black Beans (16 oz) – Adds fiber and a creamy texture; try using Goya brand for optimal taste.
• Red Onion (1/4) – Contributes sweetness and crunch; finely diced ensures even distribution of flavor.
• Jalapeño (1) – Introduces a spicy kick; remove seeds for a milder experience suited for kids.
• Cilantro (1/2 cup) – Provides a fresh herbal note; roughly chopped for better mixing throughout.
• Cheddar Cheese (2.25 cups, shredded) – Delivers rich creaminess; sharp cheddar enhances the flavor profile.
• Chili Powder (1 tsp) – A sprinkle of warmth to elevate the taste.
• Smoked Paprika (1/2 tsp) – Adds a hint of smokiness that complements the BBQ.
• Salt (1/4 tsp) – Essential for balancing and enhancing all flavors.
• Cumin (1/2 tsp) – Infuses earthiness, creating depth in the filling.
• BBQ Sauce (1/2 cup) – This is the star flavor of the dish, tying all ingredients together; Sweet Baby Ray’s is a top choice.
• Flour Tortillas (10) – The foundation of your quesadilla, holding all that delicious filling together.
These BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are not just a meal; they’re a family favorite that comes together effortlessly! Enjoy crafting your own version with your loved ones.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Prepare Ingredients: Start by finely dicing the red onion and jalapeño. Chop the cilantro and shred the chicken if you’re using rotisserie chicken to save time.
Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine the diced onion, jalapeño, cilantro, shredded chicken, black beans, and spices (chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and salt) along with the BBQ sauce. Mix until everything is well blended.
Assemble Tortillas: For each tortilla, spread about 1/3 cup of the filling on one half. Fold the tortilla over, pressing gently to seal the edges for a nice, compact quesadilla.
Heat the Skillet: Preheat a skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with a bit of oil or butter to prevent sticking.
Cook Quesadillas: Place the folded quesadillas in the skillet, cooking in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and the cheese has melted.
Let Rest: Once cooked, allow the quesadillas to rest for 1-2 minutes. This helps the cheese set a bit, making them easier to cut.
Serve: Cut the quesadillas into triangular pieces and serve them warm with sides like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for a delightful dip.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of extra cilantro on top for a fresh finishing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Variations
Feel free to put your own delicious spin on these quesadillas and make them truly yours!
- Black Bean Swap: Substitute black beans with pinto beans or sweet corn for a different texture and flavor profile that pops in every bite.
- Cheese Change: Experiment with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese for extra creaminess or a spicy kick.
- BBQ Sauce Variety: Use a zesty or smoky BBQ sauce to change up the flavor; try honey BBQ for an added sweetness that families love!
- Vegetable Boost: Add bell peppers or spinach to the filling for extra nutrients and delicious crunch in every cheesy bite.
- Heat Adjustment: Include sliced fresh jalapeños if you love a spicy punch, or omit them altogether for a milder version.
- Tortilla Texture: Swap flour tortillas for whole wheat or corn tortillas for a different texture and a healthier twist.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh basil or oregano with the cilantro for an herbaceous note that elevates the quesadilla experience.
- Protein Variation: Use leftover grilled steak or shredded pork instead of chicken for a robust flavor change your family will adore.
Storage Tips for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas fresh and ready for a quick snack or meal.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each quesadilla individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore that crispy texture.
- Serving Tip: Allow reheated quesadillas to rest for a minute before serving to avoid hot fillings spilling out when cut.
Make Ahead Options
These BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling (a mix of shredded chicken, black beans, spices, and BBQ sauce) up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can assemble the quesadillas and keep them wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 days before cooking. To maintain that crispy texture, ensure you greased the skillet well; this way, the tortillas won’t stick or become soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy your creations, just cook the quesadillas from the fridge directly in a preheated skillet for a quick and delicious meal that feels just as fresh as if you made them that night!
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?
Complement your evening with sides that elevate your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas into a satisfying, well-rounded meal.
Sour Cream: Creamy and cool, it provides a rich contrast to the spicy and smoky quesadillas, enhancing every bite.
Guacamole: Fresh and creamy, guacamole adds a delightful avocado flavor, perfect for balancing the sweetness of BBQ sauce.
Pico de Gallo: Fresh and zesty, this salsa made of tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds brightness and crunch to your meal.
Corn Salad: A colorful mix of sweet corn, bell peppers, and lime dressing offers a refreshing side that complements the quesadillas’ flavors beautifully.
Tortilla Chips: Crunchy and inviting, tortilla chips paired with salsa make for a fantastic starter to enjoy while the quesadillas are being prepared.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they add a comforting, slightly sweet element that pairs fabulously with the savory quesadillas.
Margaritas: A classic pair with Tex-Mex dishes, a refreshing margarita can enhance the experience of your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas, making dinner feel like a festive occasion.
These pairings not only complement the flavors, but they also transform your dinner into a delightful feast!
Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
- Perfect Heat: Cook over medium-low heat to ensure the tortillas brown nicely without burning before the cheese melts.
- Mind the Filling: Avoid overstuffing your quesadillas to make flipping easier and reduce the likelihood of spillage.
- Crispy Texture: Brush the tortilla outsides with a little oil or butter before cooking to achieve a delightful crispy finish.
- Resting Time: Let your quesadillas rest for a couple of minutes after cooking; this allows the cheese to set for easier cutting.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses, like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, to customize your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas to your personal taste!
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose fresh vegetables. Select jalapeños that are firm and bright green, avoiding any with dark spots or wrinkles. Fresh cilantro should appear vibrant and green. For the red onion, pick one that feels heavy for its size, indicating good moisture.
How should I store leftover BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?
Store your leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can easily grab a delicious snack or meal on the go!
Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Quesadillas for later?
Yes! To freeze, wrap each quesadilla tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. You can enjoy them perfectly for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned.
What should I do if my quesadillas are sticking to the skillet?
Very! Ensure your skillet is preheated and lightly greased with oil or butter to prevent sticking. If they’re still sticking, it may be helpful to use a non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned cast iron.
Are BBQ Chicken Quesadillas pet-friendly?
Not really! While the ingredients themselves aren’t harmful, it’s best to keep them away from pets due to high salt content and potential allergens like onions. Be cautious and stick to pet-safe treats!
What if the cheese doesn’t melt properly?
If you find your cheese isn’t melting as desired, try lowering the heat to medium-low. This ensures the tortillas crisp up without burning before the cheese gets that gooey texture. Cooking them a little longer (but watching closely to prevent burning) usually helps achieve that perfect melt. Don’t forget to let them rest afterward for easier cutting!
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas: Quick, Customizable Comfort Food
Equipment
- - Skillet
- - Mixing bowl
- - Cutting board
- - Knife
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken rotisserie chicken works well
- 16 oz black beans try using Goya brand
- 1/4 whole red onion finely diced
- 1 whole jalapeño remove seeds for less heat
- 1/2 cup cilantro roughly chopped
- 2.25 cups shredded cheddar cheese sharp cheddar recommended
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce Sweet Baby Ray's is a top choice
- 10 whole flour tortillas
Instructions
How to Make BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
- Start by finely dicing the red onion and jalapeño. Chop the cilantro and shred the chicken if you're using rotisserie chicken to save time.
- In a large bowl, combine the diced onion, jalapeño, cilantro, shredded chicken, black beans, and spices (chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and salt) along with the BBQ sauce. Mix until everything is well blended.
- For each tortilla, spread about 1/3 cup of the filling on one half. Fold the tortilla over, pressing gently to seal the edges for a nice, compact quesadilla.
- Preheat a skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with a bit of oil or butter to prevent sticking.
- Place the folded quesadillas in the skillet, cooking in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- Once cooked, allow the quesadillas to rest for 1-2 minutes. This helps the cheese set a bit, making them easier to cut.
- Cut the quesadillas into triangular pieces and serve them warm with sides like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for a delightful dip.