Easy BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are a go-to solution for weeknight dinners or quick snacks. With just a handful of ingredients, they combine tender shredded chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, and melted cheddar cheese in crispy tortillas.
These quesadillas are approachable for all skill levels and versatile enough to pair with sides like sour cream, guacamole, or fresh salsa. Their fast cook time makes them ideal for busy schedules, family meals, or even casual entertaining.
Why the Recipe Works
The recipe works because it balances flavor, texture, and efficiency:
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Shredded chicken absorbs the barbecue sauce for consistent flavor in every bite.
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Cheddar cheese melts evenly and adds a rich, gooey texture.
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Flour tortillas crisp on the skillet for a satisfying contrast.
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Minimal cooking time ensures the chicken stays juicy and cheese melts perfectly.
By layering ingredients carefully and cooking at moderate heat, these quesadillas are golden, crispy, and fully melted without burning.
Recipe Info
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 quesadillas
Category: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredient Breakdown
Shredded Chicken
Pre-cooked shredded chicken allows fast assembly and ensures even BBQ flavor absorption.
Barbecue Sauce
Barbecue sauce adds tanginess and a smoky-sweet element that pairs perfectly with cheddar.
Cheese
Cheddar provides meltability and sharp flavor, binding the chicken and tortillas together.
Tortillas
Large flour tortillas are ideal for folding and crisping evenly. Soft enough to roll, but firm enough to hold the filling.
Optional Toppings
Green onions, sour cream, and guacamole enhance freshness, creaminess, and additional texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated. This ensures every bite is flavorful.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Properly heated oil prevents sticking and helps tortillas crisp evenly.
Step 3: Assemble the Quesadilla
Place one tortilla in the skillet. Sprinkle ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese over the tortilla, followed by ½ cup of the BBQ chicken mixture. Top with another ½ cup of cheese and then place a second tortilla on top.
Step 4: Cook the Quesadilla
Cook for 3–4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt. Carefully flip the quesadilla and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until the other side is golden and fully melted.
Step 5: Repeat and Serve
Remove from the skillet and repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling. Slice each quesadilla into wedges and garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve warm with sour cream or guacamole.
Tips for Perfect BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
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Use moderate heat to avoid burning the tortillas while allowing cheese to melt.
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Even layer of cheese and chicken ensures consistent flavor.
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Let the quesadilla rest 1 minute after cooking to prevent cheese from spilling.
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Use a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan for best results.
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Pre-shredded chicken from rotisserie or leftover roasted chicken works well.
Variations
Spicy BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the chicken mixture for heat.
Cheesy Blend
Mix cheddar with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a stretchier, creamier texture.
Veggie-Loaded
Add bell peppers, onions, or corn for extra texture and flavor.
Low-Carb Option
Use low-carb or whole-wheat tortillas to reduce carbohydrates.
Serving Suggestions
Serve BBQ chicken quesadillas with:
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Fresh guacamole or sliced avocado
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Sour cream or Greek yogurt
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Pico de gallo or fresh salsa
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Simple side salad or roasted vegetables
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Sweet potato fries for a hearty meal
Storage & Make-Ahead
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Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain crispiness.
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Do not microwave directly from fridge if crispiness is desired; it may soften the tortilla.
Nutrition (per serving, 1 quesadilla)
Calories: 450
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 3g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 750mg
Sugar: 8g
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and store uncooked in the fridge, then cook when ready.
Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. It reduces prep time and is perfect for quick meals.
Can these be made gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with gluten-free tortillas.
Can I freeze them?
Yes, cook first, let cool, wrap individually, and freeze. Reheat in oven or skillet for best texture.
Easy BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are the ultimate quick dinner solution. With tangy BBQ chicken, gooey cheese, and perfectly crisp tortillas, they are fast, flavorful, and family-approved.
Whether for a weeknight meal, lunch, or snack, this recipe proves that comfort food can be simple, satisfying, and ready in just 20 minutes.
Easy BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
- ¼ cup chopped green onions optional
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce until fully coated.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Place one tortilla in the skillet. Sprinkle ½ cup cheese over the tortilla, then spread ½ cup of the BBQ chicken mixture evenly. Top with another ½ cup cheese.
- Place a second tortilla on top and cook for 3–4 minutes until the bottom is golden and the cheese starts to melt.
- Carefully flip the quesadilla and cook another 3–4 minutes until the other side is golden and the cheese is fully melted.
- Remove from the skillet and repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Slice into wedges and garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve warm with sour cream or guacamole.
