Name: BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1/2 cup BBQ sauce; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (or a blend); 4 large flour tortillas; 2 tbsp butter or oil (for grilling); Optional: 1/4 cup sliced red onions; Optional: 1-2 jalapeños, sliced; Optional: Fresh cilantro, chopped

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are a flavorful and satisfying twist on traditional quesadillas. They’re packed with tender shredded chicken, smoky BBQ sauce, melty cheese, and a crispy golden tortilla. Whether I need a quick lunch or an easy dinner, these quesadillas hit the spot every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe combines the bold taste of BBQ with the creamy goodness of cheese and the crunch of a perfectly grilled tortilla. It’s quick to prepare, great for using up leftover chicken, and easy to customize. Plus, it’s family-friendly and makes for a great handheld meal that’s perfect for dipping.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shredded cooked chicken
BBQ sauce
Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (or a blend)
Flour tortillas
Butter or oil (for grilling the quesadillas)
Optional: red onion slices, jalapeños, cilantro

Directions

In a bowl, I mix the shredded chicken with my favorite BBQ sauce until the chicken is evenly coated.
I heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little butter or oil.
I place one tortilla on the skillet, then sprinkle some cheese over half of the tortilla.
I add a layer of the BBQ chicken mixture, then top it with optional add-ins like red onion or jalapeños.
I sprinkle more cheese on top, then fold the tortilla over.
I cook the quesadilla for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the tortilla is golden and crispy and the cheese is melted.
I remove it from the skillet and let it sit for a minute before slicing into wedges.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

I like swapping the chicken for pulled beef for a different BBQ twist. For a vegetarian version, I use black beans and corn in place of meat. I sometimes add a touch of chipotle sauce or hot sauce to spice things up. Using different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda also brings a fun flavor change.

storage/reheating

I store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side to maintain crispiness. The microwave works in a pinch, but it makes the tortillas a bit soft. I also freeze them individually wrapped in foil and reheat them straight from frozen.

FAQs

How do I keep the quesadillas from falling apart?

I make sure to not overfill them, and I use enough cheese to help hold everything together. Pressing the folded tortilla gently while cooking helps too.

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely, I often use rotisserie chicken to save time. It shreds easily and blends well with the BBQ sauce.

What kind of BBQ sauce works best?

I prefer a smoky or slightly sweet BBQ sauce, but any kind works. I sometimes experiment with spicy or tangy varieties to change the flavor profile.

Can I make these quesadillas in the oven?

Yes, I bake them at 400°F for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispness. It’s great for making a batch all at once.

What can I serve with BBQ chicken quesadillas?

I usually serve them with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or a fresh salad. They also pair well with corn on the cob or coleslaw.

Conclusion

These BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are my go-to when I want something quick, cheesy, and packed with flavor. They’re easy to whip up, customizable, and perfect for any day of the week. Whether I’m using leftovers or starting fresh, they never disappoint.