Introduction
Get ready for a flavor explosion with these delicious BBQ Chicken Quesadillas! Perfect for a quick dinner or a fun appetizer, these quesadillas are made with tender, shredded chicken coated in a tangy BBQ sauce, melty cheese, and fresh toppings for a delightful crunch. You’ll love how easy they are to prepare, and the best part? They’re perfect for sharing—or not! Let’s dive into this comforting, hearty recipe that brings a taste of the backyard barbecue right to your table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 4 large flour tortillas
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup cilantro, chopped
- Olive oil or cooking spray
- Optional: sour cream and salsa for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce, stirring until the chicken is well coated and bursting with flavor.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat, and add a drizzle of olive oil or a light coat of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the shredded cheese evenly across the entire surface, allowing it to melt beautifully.
- Layer half of the BBQ chicken mixture, followed by the sliced red onion and chopped cilantro, right on top of the cheese.
- Carefully top with a second tortilla. Cook for about 3–4 minutes until the bottom tortilla is golden brown and crispy.
- With care, flip the quesadilla and continue cooking for an additional 3–4 minutes, or until the other side is also golden and the cheese has melted to gooey perfection.
- Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it cool for a moment. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Once done, cut each quesadilla into wedges and serve warm, ideally with a side of sour cream and salsa for a perfect dip!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize your quesadillas with additional ingredients like jalapeños for a spicy kick or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- If you’re short on time, using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut!
- For a fun twist, you can also grill the quesadillas to achieve a smoky flavor and crispy texture.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe makes use of simple skillet cooking, which is perfect for achieving crispy quesadillas. Make sure your skillet is preheated and well-oiled for the best results, and don’t rush the cooking time—allowing each side to get that golden color ensures a lovely texture. If you’re in the mood for experimentation, try pressing down gently on the quesadilla with a spatula to create an even crispier finish!
FAQ
Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just assemble and cook the quesadillas when you’re ready to eat.
What can I use if I don’t have BBQ sauce?
Feel free to substitute with any sauce you love, such as buffalo sauce for heat or a teriyaki sauce for a sweeter twist!
Conclusion
These BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are a delightful and easy meal that can be enjoyed any night of the week. The combination of tangy BBQ sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy goodness wrapped in a crispy tortilla is sure to become a favorite in your household. Serve them up with your favorite dipping sauces and watch everyone come back for seconds. So gather your loved ones, share some laughs, and enjoy this delicious dish together!