A Cheesy, Saucy Twist on a Classic Comfort Dish
These BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are crispy, cheesy, and packed with smoky-sweet barbecue flavor. With tender shredded chicken tossed in tangy BBQ sauce and melted cheddar between warm tortillas—it’s the ultimate handheld comfort food.
Perfect for game day, weeknight dinners, or lunch on the go!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🧀 Cheesy Goodness: Cheddar cheese melts into every bite—creating that classic quesadilla stretch.
- 🍯 BBQ Flavor Pop: The sweet and tangy sauce brings bold flavor without extra effort.
- ⏱️ Quick & Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes—ideal for busy cooks.
- 🌮 Great for Sharing: Perfect at parties, picnics, or as a solo snack.
- 🥣 Customizable: Add jalapeños, onions, or pineapple chunks for fun twists.
Ingredients (Makes 6 quesadillas / serves 3–4):
For the Filling:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or grilled works great)
- 1½ cups BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
For Assembly:
- 6 8-inch flour tortillas (or large corn tortillas if preferred)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella, pepper jack, or vegan cheese)
Optional Add-Ins:
- Sliced jalapeños
- Diced red onion
- Pickled banana peppers
- Fresh cilantro or avocado slices
- A drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
Instructions:
Step 1: Mix the BBQ Chicken
In a large bowl:
- Toss shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until fully coated and saucy.
Set aside while warming the tortillas.
Step 2: Warm Tortillas & Layer Fillings
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat .
Place one tortilla in the pan and warm gently for about 1 minute , just to soften.
On one half of the tortilla:
- Sprinkle a layer of cheddar cheese
- Spoon on a generous portion of BBQ chicken
- Top with more cheese to help bind and melt everything together
Step 3: Fold & Cook Until Golden
Fold the tortilla over the filling like a half-moon.
Press lightly with a spatula and cook for 2–3 minutes per side , until golden brown and crisp around the edges.
The cheese should be fully melted inside—perfectly gooey and flavorful.
Step 4: Repeat & Serve Hot
Repeat with remaining tortillas, chicken, and cheese.
Stack them high and serve immediately while warm and crispy.
Each bite brings together:
- Juicy, smoky BBQ chicken
- Melty, sharp cheddar cheese
- And that perfect crunch-to-soft ratio everyone loves
Tips for Success:
- 🥓 Use Leftover Chicken: Rotisserie or grilled chicken saves time and adds flavor.
- 🧈 Butter the Pan: For even better browning and crunch—use butter instead of oil.
- 🌶️ Spice It Up: Add hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the mix for extra kick.
- 🥗 Add Greens: Stir in chopped cilantro or green onions before folding.
- ❄️ Freezer-Friendly: Cool completely and freeze for future reheating—great for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a dollop of sour cream or ranch dressing for cooling contrast.
- Great with a side of coleslaw or baked beans for full Southern-style plate .
- Ideal for game nights, school lunches, or late-night cravings.
Nutritional Information (per quesadilla, makes 6 – approximate):
(With regular cheese and store-bought BBQ sauce – per serving)
- Calories: ~300 kcal
- Protein: ~15g
- Carbohydrates: ~20g
- Fat: ~17g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Sugar: ~8g
These BBQ Chicken Quesadillas prove that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. With their crispy tortilla shell, melty cheese, and sticky-sweet chicken—they’re a must-make for any fan of BBQ and cheesy goodness.
