BBQ Chicken Quesadilla: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Favorite

BBQ Chicken Quesadilla is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings together the smoky richness of barbecue sauce and the gooey goodness of melted cheese, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. This dish has its roots in the Tex-Mex culinary tradition, where bold flavors and hearty ingredients come together to create comfort food that warms the soul. I remember the first time I tried a BBQ Chicken Quesadilla at a local food truck; the combination of tender chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and the satisfying crunch of the tortilla left a lasting impression on me.

People love this dish not only for its incredible taste but also for its versatility and convenience. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or simply looking for a quick weeknight meal, BBQ Chicken Quesadilla is the perfect choice. It’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering recipe that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup corn (canned or frozen, thawed)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for cooking)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Chicken Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce. Make sure the chicken is well-coated with the sauce. You can adjust the amount of BBQ sauce based on your taste preference; I like mine a bit saucy, so I usually add a little extra. 2. Add the sliced red onion and corn to the chicken mixture. Stir everything together until evenly mixed. If you’re a fan of cilantro, toss in the chopped cilantro at this stage for an added burst of flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Preparing the Tortillas

3. Lay out your flour tortillas on a clean surface. I usually like to warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to make them more pliable. This helps prevent them from tearing when I fill them. 4. On one half of each tortilla, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. This cheesy layer will help hold the quesadilla together and add that gooey texture we all love.

Assembling the Quesadillas

5. Spoon a portion of the BBQ chicken mixture onto the cheese-covered half of each tortilla. Be careful not to overfill; about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of filling per quesadilla is usually perfect. 6. Once the filling is in place, fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Press down gently to help seal the edges. If you want to ensure they stay closed while cooking, you can use a little extra cheese on the edges as a glue.

Cooking the Quesadillas

7. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil or butter. Allow it to melt and coat the bottom of the skillet. 8. Carefully place one or two quesadillas in the skillet, depending on the size of your pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy. 9. Using a spatula, flip the quesadilla over and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side. You want the cheese to be melted and the tortilla to be crispy. If you find that the quesadilla is browning too quickly, you can lower the heat slightly. 10. Once cooked, transfer the quesadilla to a cutting board. Let it sit for a minute before slicing it into wedges. This resting time helps the cheese set a bit, making it easier to cut without spilling out all the filling.

Serving the Quesadillas

11. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining quesadillas, adding more oil or butter to the skillet as needed. 12. Serve the quesadillas warm with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. You can also add sides like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for a complete meal. 13. If you want to elevate your presentation, garnish the plate with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a few slices of jalapeño for a kick.

Tips and Variations

14. If you want to add more veggies, consider including bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms in the chicken mixture. Just sauté them lightly before adding them to the filling. 15. For a spicier version, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ chicken mixture. 16. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use whole wheat tortillas and reduce the amount of cheese. You can also substitute the chicken with black beans or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian version. 17. Leftover quesadillas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or microwave before serving. 18. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Pepper jack adds a nice kick, while gouda can give a smoky flavor that pairs well with BBQ. 19. If you’re making these for a crowd, consider setting up a ques

Conclusion:

In summary, this BBQ Chicken Quesadilla recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their meal game with a burst of flavor and a satisfying crunch. The combination of smoky BBQ chicken, gooey cheese, and fresh veggies wrapped in a crispy tortilla creates a delightful experience that is sure to please both family and friends. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily swap out the chicken for pulled pork or even go vegetarian with some grilled veggies and black beans. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your quesadillas with a side of homemade guacamole, fresh salsa, or a zesty sour cream dip to take your meal to the next level. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for an extra pop of flavor. I encourage you to give this BBQ Chicken Quesadilla a try and make it your own! Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you come up with. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! So grab your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and enjoy a delicious meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!

Print