There’s something utterly comforting about the amalgamation of crisp tortillas filled with savory goodness. If you’ve ever been caught in a weeknight dinner bind and thought, “What can I whip up that’ll make everyone happy?”—let me tell you, BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are your ticket. Not only are they incredibly easy to make, but they also feel like a hug in food form. Picture this: tender, smoky chicken, melted cheese, and a delightful crunch with every bite.
Why you'll love this recipe
The beauty of BBQ Chicken Quesadillas lies in their versatility and flavor explosion. Just imagine the moment when you take that first bite—smoky, sweet barbecue sauce dancing on your taste buds, intertwined with gooey melted cheddar, all nestled within that crispy, warm tortilla. It’s a win-win. You get a meal that’s not just quick to prepare but also deeply satisfying.
These quesadillas are perfect for busy weeknights, yet they have the charm to suit any gathering, from impromptu dinners to Taco Tuesday extravaganzas. Plus, they are incredibly customizable! You can tweak them to suit your cravings or whatever ingredients you happen to have left in the fridge.
Gather these ingredients
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2 cups cooked shredded chicken: You can use store-bought rotisserie chicken or even leftover grilled chicken—just make sure it’s shredded. It soaks up that BBQ sauce beautifully!
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1/2 cup barbecue sauce: I recommend something tangy and a bit sweet; it adds a depth of flavor that makes each bite exciting. Don’t hesitate to use a brand you love or even whip up your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice here, melting like a dream. If you're in a creative mood, you could try pepper jack for a little heat!
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4 large flour tortillas: Choose soft, pliable tortillas that can withstand the fillings without tearing. Were you aware that you can also use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier twist?
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1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional): These give a lovely fresh crunch and a pop of color—especially stunning if you’re serving a crowd!
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2 tablespoons olive oil: This is how you’ll get that perfect, golden-brown crust on the tortillas. Feel free to swap it for butter for a richer flavor.
The cooking process explained
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In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and barbecue sauce. Make sure every shred of chicken is coated with that tangy goodness.
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Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. A hot skillet is essential for that crispy exterior.
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Add one tortilla to the skillet. On top, sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheese to create a cheesy foundation.
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Next, distribute your BBQ chicken mixture evenly over the melted cheese, then top with another 1/2 cup of cheese. Just a little cheesy redundancy never hurt anyone!
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Cover with a second tortilla, and cook for 3-4 minutes. You want that first side to turn golden brown and for the cheese to start melting.
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Carefully flip the quesadilla using a spatula, and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until golden and crisp.
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Once done, slide the giant quesadilla onto a cutting board. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling until you’ve got a scrumptious stack.
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Slice into wedges, garnish with green onions if you wish, and serve warm. You might want to have some extra BBQ sauce on hand for dipping!
Best way to enjoy it
These quesadillas are best enjoyed fresh off the skillet while the cheese is still melty. Serve them with a side of salsa, guacamole, or even a refreshing cucumber salad for a nice balance. A dollop of sour cream could also elevate your creamy game.
If you’re feeling a bit extra, consider adding a side of spicy corn or black bean salad for a colorful, hearty meal. Your friends and family will think you’ve pulled out all the stops!
Storage and reheating tips
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, let me assure you), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat them, simply pop them back into a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid to ensure the cheese melts nicely without burning the tortilla.
You can also freeze cooked quesadillas—just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to protect them from freezer burn. When you’re ready for another cheesy feast, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
- Don’t rush it! The secret to perfect quesadillas is patience. Cooking them slowly ensures the cheese melts evenly and the tortillas get nicely browned.
- Want an extra layer of flavor? Toast your tortillas in the skillet for a minute before adding your fillings. This creates a slight crunch that compliments the gooeyness beautifully.
- Feel free to play with spices! A sprinkle of smoked paprika or chili powder in the BBQ sauce can take your quesadillas to the next level.
Creative Twists
Want to make this dish your own? Try experimenting with different meats like pulled pork or beef for a bolder flavor. You can even go vegetarian; just swap the chicken for black beans and incorporate sautéed bell peppers for a colorful crunch.
Feeling saucy? Add slices of jalapeños or a drizzle of spicy sauce for a serious kick. And don’t forget about the toppings! Think fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a zesty lime wedge to brighten up the mix.
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
Directions to follow
- Combine shredded chicken and BBQ sauce in a bowl until well coated.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Place one tortilla in the skillet and add 1/2 cup shredded cheese.
- Spread 1/2 cup BBQ chicken mixture evenly over cheese and top with another 1/2 cup cheese.
- Cover with a second tortilla; cook for 3-4 minutes until golden.
- Carefully flip and cook another 3-4 minutes until the cheese is fully melted.
- Remove from skillet and repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
- Slice into wedges, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve warm.
Your questions answered
- What’s a good dip for these quesadillas? Salsa, guacamole, or sour cream makes fantastic companions.
- Can I use a different cheese? Absolutely! Monterey Jack or pepper jack adds lovely flavor, too.
- How long does this take to prepare? From start to finish, you can whip these up in about 20-30 minutes!
- Can I use corn tortillas instead? Definitely, though they might break more easily; just be extra gentle while flipping!
- Do I have to use chicken? Not at all! Feel free to sub in your favorite protein or go vegetarian.
I hope you give this recipe a spin in your kitchen! There’s nothing quite like the joy of cooking something simple yet utterly delightful. Let your creativity flow and find your own sweet spot for flavors. Remember, every great dish starts becoming legendary in your home. Happy cooking!
