Easy BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Recipe | 20-Min Dinner

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are a quick, tasty dinner that’s ready in 20 minutes. This recipe is loved by families everywhere. It mixes shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, tortillas, and cheese for a delicious meal.

These quesadillas are perfect for busy weeknights. You can make them ahead of time and cook them when you’re ready.

Key Takeaways

Quick 20-minute dinner recipe
Combines shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, and melted cheese
Family-friendly and easy to scale for any number of people
Can be prepped ahead of time for a convenient weeknight meal
Nutritious with 41g of protein and 10g of fiber per serving

Why These BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Are Perfect for Busy Families

Feeding your family can be a challenge, especially when time is short. These quick and easy BBQ chicken quesadillas are a great solution. They can be made in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

Time-Saving Benefits

This recipe is simple and saves time. Using pre-cooked or leftover chicken cuts down cooking time. You’ll also need common ingredients like flour tortillas, BBQ sauce, and shredded cheese, making grocery shopping easier.

Family-Friendly Appeal

Both kids and adults will love these quesadillas. The mix of tender chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and melted cheese is comforting and tasty. They’re also easy to eat, great for families with picky eaters.

Meal Prep Potential

These quesadillas are great for meal prep. You can prep the chicken, BBQ sauce, and cheese ahead of time. This way, you can quickly assemble and cook them when you’re ready. It’s a convenient way to have a delicious dinner ready.

These BBQ chicken quesadillas are perfect for busy families. They offer quick meals, are easy to make, and can be prepped in advance. They’re a great choice for quick family meals, easy dinner ideas, and meal prep recipes.

Essential Ingredients for Success

Making tasty BBQ chicken quesadillas is all about the right mix of ingredients. A few key components come together to make every bite a flavor explosion.

First, you’ll need 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken breast. You can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken breasts to save time. Next, add 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce to coat the chicken. This gives it that smoky-sweet taste.

For the cheese, you’ll need 1 cup of shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend. This cheese makes the quesadillas melty and gooey. It also helps bind the ingredients together.

Don’t forget the tortillas. You’ll need 4 large flour tortillas to make your quesadillas.

To add freshness and crunch, include 1/2 a diced red onion, 1/2 cup of corn kernels, and 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro (if you like). These add nice flavors and textures.

With these basic BBQ chicken quesadilla ingredients and recipe components, you’re ready to make a delicious meal.

Ingredient	Quantity
Cooked, Shredded Chicken Breast	2 cups
BBQ Sauce	1 cup
Shredded Cheese (Cheddar, Mozzarella, or Blend)	1 cup
Flour Tortillas	4 large
Diced Red Onion	1/2
Corn Kernels	1/2 cup
Chopped Cilantro (optional)	1/4 cup

This recipe is flexible. You can adjust the BBQ chicken quesadilla ingredients and recipe components to your liking. The possibilities are endless for creating your own BBQ chicken quesadilla masterpiece!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

To make tasty BBQ chicken quesadillas, you need some key tools. Even though the ingredients are simple, the right tools are crucial. They help get the quesadillas crispy and full of flavor.

Essential Tools

A large 12-inch non-stick skillet or griddle for cooking the quesadillas
Nonstick cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking
A sturdy spatula for flipping and removing the cooked quesadillas
A pizza cutter or sharp knife for slicing the quesadillas into triangles

Optional but Helpful Items

A cheese grater for freshly shredding the cheese blend
A cooling rack to keep the cooked quesadillas crisp while preparing multiple batches

With these quesadilla cooking tools and kitchen essentials, you’re ready to make perfect BBQ chicken quesadillas at home.

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more fun. With these quesadilla cooking tools and kitchen essentials, you can quickly make delicious and crispy BBQ chicken quesadillas.

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Recipe

Get ready for a delicious dinner with our BBQ chicken quesadilla recipe. It’s quick and easy, perfect for busy families. You’ll love the mix of tender chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and melted cheese in crispy tortillas.

First, gather your ingredients: cooked diced chicken, barbecue sauce, corn kernels, salt, pepper, shredded cheddar cheese, and small tortillas. This recipe makes 4 servings. Each quesadilla has 325 calories, 32.5 grams of carbs, 32 grams of protein, and 10 grams of fat.

In a bowl, mix the cooked diced chicken with the barbecue sauce until well combined.
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
Place one tortilla in the skillet and evenly distribute a quarter of the shredded cheese over half of the tortilla.
Top the cheese with a quarter of the BBQ chicken mixture, then fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling.
Cook the quesadilla for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Carefully transfer the cooked quesadilla to a cooling rack and repeat the process with the remaining ingredients to make 4 servings.

Serve the BBQ chicken quesadillas hot, with extra barbecue sauce for dipping. This quick and tasty meal will satisfy your cravings for BBQ chicken quesadilla instructions and how to make quesadillas.

Preparing the Perfect Shredded Chicken

The secret to amazing BBQ chicken quesadillas is in the shredded chicken. With a few simple steps, you can make ordinary chicken into a tasty and tender filling. This will elevate your quesadillas to a whole new level.

Cooking Methods

There are many ways to cook the chicken for your quesadillas. Grilling, baking, air frying, or sautéing are all great options. They make the chicken moist and juicy. Try different methods to see what you like best.

Seasoning Tips

Make your shredded chicken taste better by seasoning it with homemade seasoned salt and black pepper.
For more flavor, add spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
If you’re in a hurry, use a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Shredding it saves time.

No matter how you cook it, shred the chicken into small pieces for the best filling. You can even make the shredded chicken up to 3 days ahead. This makes it easy to assemble your quesadillas when you’re ready.

Choosing the Right BBQ Sauce

Choosing the right BBQ sauce is key for delicious BBQ chicken quesadillas. The right sauce can make the flavors and textures work together perfectly. Whether you buy it or make it yourself, the best BBQ sauce for quesadillas should be sweet, tangy, and savory.

For kids, a milder BBQ sauce is best. It won’t be too strong for their taste. For those who like it bold, a smoky or spicy sauce is great. You can also adjust how much sauce you use, from a little to a lot.

Think about the flavor you want when picking a BBQ sauce. A tomato-based sauce goes well with cheddar cheese. A vinegar-based sauce adds a nice tang to the filling. Try different BBQ sauce selections to find what you like best.

Best BBQ Sauce for Quesadillas	Flavor Profile	Suggested Use
Sweet Baby Ray’s Original BBQ Sauce	Sweet, Tangy, Smoky	Classic BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Stubb’s Spicy Bar-B-Q Sauce	Spicy, Savory, Slightly Sweet	Adventurous, Flavor-Packed Quesadillas
Lillie’s Q Carolina Barbecue Sauce	Vinegar-Based, Tangy, Slightly Sweet	Quesadillas with a Zesty, Tangy Twist

The best BBQ sauce for quesadillas is the one you like best. Try different BBQ sauce selections to find your favorite flavor.

Best Cheese Options for Quesadillas

Choosing the right cheese is key to making a great quesadilla. You’ll want to pick from quesadilla cheese options like sharp cheddar and mozzarella. These two cheeses are top choices for their unique flavors and textures.

Recommended Cheese Blends

For the best quesadilla, mix sharp cheddar with mozzarella. Cheddar’s bold taste and mozzarella’s creamy stretch make a perfect pair. This combo is loved by many for its melting cheese for quesadillas quality.

But you can also try other cheeses like pepper jack or Monterey jack. They add spice or creaminess. Always use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and taste.

Melting Tips

Shred the cheese yourself for the best melting results. Pre-shredded cheese often contains added ingredients that can hinder the melting process.
Aim for an even distribution of cheese on both sides of the quesadilla for uniform melting and flavor.
Consider using a blend of low-fat cheese options for a healthier twist, without compromising on taste or texture.

By picking the right cheese mix and following these tips, you’ll make quesadillas that are delicious and satisfying.

Tortilla Selection Guide

Choosing the right tortilla is key to making great BBQ chicken quesadillas. The best tortillas should crisp up well and feel good in your mouth. Mission Gluten-Free Tortillas and Siete brand tortillas are top picks.

If you want something healthier, try whole wheat tortillas. They add fiber and nutrients. Or, go for corn tortillas for a gluten-free choice. They bring a unique taste that goes well with BBQ chicken and cheese.

Tortilla Type	Pros	Cons
Mission Gluten-Free Tortillas	Gluten-free Crisp well during cooking Versatile for various fillings	May have a slightly different texture compared to traditional flour tortillas
Siete Brand Tortillas	Gluten-free Made from wholesome ingredients Provide a satisfying crunch	Can be more expensive than traditional options
Whole Wheat Tortillas	Offer additional fiber and nutrients Crisp up well during cooking Provide a heartier texture	Some may prefer the softer texture of flour tortillas
Corn Tortillas	Gluten-free Provide a distinct, authentic flavor Can be a tasty alternative to flour tortillas	May not crisp up as easily as flour or gluten-free tortillas

The right tortilla for your BBQ chicken quesadillas depends on what you like and need. Think about the texture, taste, and how well they crisp up. This will help you make a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying.

Step-by-Step Assembly Instructions

Assembling the perfect how to assemble quesadillas is all about layering the ingredients just right. Start by placing a flour tortilla on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of the shredded cheese blend across the entire tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges. Next, add a generous portion of the flavorful BBQ chicken in an even layer. Top the chicken with another layer of the cheese blend.

To finish, place a second tortilla on top, pressing down lightly to secure the layers. This quesadilla layering tips ensures that the ingredients are evenly distributed. This allows for a crispy, golden-brown exterior and a melty, cheesy interior when cooked.

Common Assembly Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake to avoid is overfilling the quesadillas. Piling on too many ingredients can make them difficult to flip and can cause the fillings to spill out during cooking. Another pitfall is not spreading the ingredients evenly, leading to uneven cooking and potential dryness in certain areas. By following the simple layering technique, you can create perfectly balanced how to assemble quesadillas every time.

“The key to amazing quesadillas is all in the layering. Start with a base of cheese, then add your chicken and veggies, and top it off with another layer of cheese. This ensures that everything melts together perfectly.”

– Chef Maria, Culinary Expert

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Crispiness

Getting the perfect crispy texture in your crispy quesadilla tips is key for a great meal. Here are some quesadilla cooking methods to help you make your BBQ chicken quesadillas crispy:

Preheat your skillet or griddle over medium heat. This makes the surface hot evenly, so your quesadillas will crisp up well.
Lightly coat the pan with non-stick cooking spray or a bit of oil. This helps the tortillas get a golden-brown crust.
Put the quesadillas in the hot pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side. They should be crispy and the cheese melted.
Keep the cooked quesadillas on a cooling rack while you cook more. This stops the bottom from getting soggy.

By using these simple steps, you’ll get a crispy outside and a gooey inside in your crispy quesadilla tips. Enjoy your quesadilla cooking methods for a delicious 20-minute dinner!

Healthy Variations and Substitutions

Creating a tasty and healthy quesadilla is easy. You can make a few simple changes to make your BBQ chicken quesadillas better for everyone. This way, you can enjoy a meal that’s both delicious and good for you.

Try using whole-wheat or corn tortillas instead of flour ones. They have more fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Choose lean, grilled chicken breast for protein. This makes your dish lower in fat and calories.

Add veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or black beans to increase nutrition.
Use low-fat or reduced-fat cheese to reduce saturated fat and calories.
Make your own BBQ sauce to control the sugar content.

These quesadilla variations are not only yummy but also healthier. With a few tweaks, you can keep the flavor of your favorite BBQ chicken quesadillas. And you’ll be supporting a healthier lifestyle for your family.

“By making small, conscious changes, you can transform your BBQ chicken quesadillas into a nutritious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.”

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Enjoy your BBQ chicken quesadillas with a variety of sides and dips. These add flavor, beauty, and balance to your meal. They make your Tex-Mex feast complete.

Complementary Sides

Fresh garden salad with zesty lime vinaigrette
Roasted vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and corn
Cilantro lime rice or classic Mexican rice
Creamy refried beans or black beans
Grilled corn on the cob or Mexican street corn
Crisp coleslaw or cucumber salad
Fruit salad with tropical flavors
Cheesy Mexican corn casserole
Hearty chicken tortilla soup
Savory chili con carne

Dipping Sauce Options

Match the quesadillas’ smoky, tangy taste with dipping sauces. Try these:

Creamy chipotle crema
Zesty guacamole
Fresh pico de gallo salsa

For a full Tex-Mex meal, serve with warm tortilla chips, lime wedges, and extra toppings. Add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sour cream.

With a mix of colorful and tasty sides and dips, your BBQ chicken quesadillas become unforgettable. They turn into a memorable quesadilla side dishes and BBQ chicken quesadilla accompaniments experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Enjoying BBQ chicken quesadillas doesn’t have to stop after dinner. You can still enjoy them as leftovers with the right storage and reheating. Let’s look at how to keep your quesadillas fresh.

Storing Quesadilla Leftovers

To keep your quesadillas fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors in and the tortillas crisp.

Reheating Quesadillas

Skillet Method: Reheat quesadillas in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture. It crisps the tortillas and melts the cheese.
Oven or Toaster Oven: You can also reheat them in the oven or toaster oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are warm and crispy.

You can also freeze the quesadillas before cooking. Assemble them but don’t cook. Wrap them in plastic wrap or foil and freeze. To cook, thaw and cook as usual, adding a few extra minutes.

Storage Method	Shelf Life
Refrigerator	Up to 3 days
Freezer (uncooked)	Up to 3 months

By following these tips, you can enjoy your quesadilla leftovers for a long time. Savor the taste of your homemade BBQ chicken quesadillas whenever you want.

Conclusion

The easy family dinner of BBQ Chicken Quesadillas is perfect for busy weeknights. It has a quick BBQ chicken recipe and ingredients you can change. This makes it a tasty and flexible meal for everyone.

Looking for a meal that’s easy to make and loved by all? This recipe is a great choice. You can adjust the fillings to fit different diets. So, it’s a meal that suits everyone’s taste.

This BBQ Chicken Quesadillas recipe is a hit with its mix of flavors and textures. It’s a 20-minute meal that’s sure to please your family every time.

FAQ

What makes these BBQ Chicken Quesadillas perfect for busy families?

These quesadillas are great for busy families. They take only 20 minutes to make. They’re loved by both kids and adults. Plus, you can prep parts of them ahead of time for quicker assembly on busy nights.

What are the essential ingredients needed to make these BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?

You’ll need 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken breast and 1 cup of BBQ sauce. Also, 1 cup of shredded cheese and 4 large flour tortillas. Don’t forget 1/2 red onion, 1/2 cup of corn kernels, and 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro (optional).

What kitchen equipment is required to make these quesadillas?

You’ll need a large 12″ skillet and nonstick cooking spray or olive oil. A spatula is essential for flipping. A pizza cutter helps with slicing. Optional tools include a cheese grater and a cooling rack for crispiness.

How do you assemble and cook the BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?

Mix the chicken with BBQ sauce. Heat a skillet over medium heat and spray with nonstick spray. Place a tortilla, cheese, chicken, more cheese, and another tortilla. Cook until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. Let them cool on a rack before slicing and serving with extra BBQ sauce.

What are some tips for preparing the perfect shredded chicken for these quesadillas?

You can grill, bake, Air Fry, or sauté the chicken. Season it with homemade seasoned salt and pepper for flavor. Leftover or rotisserie chicken is convenient. Shred the chicken up to 3 days in advance for quicker assembly.

How do you choose the best BBQ sauce for these quesadillas?

Pick your favorite BBQ sauce or make your own. For kids, choose a mild sauce. Adjust the sauce amount to your taste. Think about how the sauce will match the chicken and cheese.

What are the best cheese options for these BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?

Sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of both are good choices. Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt. Low-fat cheese is a healthier option. Make sure to spread the cheese evenly for great flavor.

What type of tortillas should you use for these quesadillas?

Mission Gluten-Free Tortillas and Siete brand tortillas are good choices. Whole wheat tortillas add fiber. Corn tortillas are another option. Choose tortillas that get crispy for the best texture.

How do you avoid common assembly mistakes when making these quesadillas?

Start with a tortilla, then cheese, chicken, more cheese, and another tortilla. Make sure the ingredients are evenly spread. Avoid overfilling to prevent spilling during cooking.

What are some tips for achieving the perfect crispy texture on these quesadillas?

Cook in a preheated skillet over medium heat. Use nonstick spray or a bit of oil for a crispy exterior. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until crispy and cheese is melted. Keep them on a cooling rack to stay crisp while making more.

What are some healthy variations or substitutions for these BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?

Use whole wheat or corn tortillas for more fiber. Choose lean, grilled chicken breast for less fat. Add veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or black beans for extra nutrition. Low-fat cheese and homemade BBQ sauce are healthier choices.