This BBQ Chicken Quesadilla puts a delicious, flavor-filled spin on a classic Tex-Mex dish. It features tender shredded chicken tossed in smoky barbecue sauce, layered with melty cheese, and grilled to crispy perfection inside a golden tortilla. It’s quick to make, family-friendly, and perfect for lunch, dinner, or even game day snacks.
Ingredients
For 2 servings:
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2 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
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1 cup cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
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1/3 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
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1 cup shredded cheese (your choice of cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a combination)
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1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
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1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for cooking)
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Fresh cilantro or green onions (for garnish, optional)
Optional Add-ins:
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Jalapeño slices for heat
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Corn or black beans for added texture
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Sour cream or ranch for dipping
Execution
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Prepare the chicken: In a bowl, mix the cooked shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
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Assemble the quesadillas: Lay a tortilla flat and sprinkle half of the cheese on one side. Add BBQ chicken, red onion (if using), and then the remaining cheese. Fold the tortilla over to close.
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Cook: In a skillet, warm olive oil or butter over medium heat. Cook the folded quesadilla for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
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Slice and serve: Remove from heat, let sit for 1 minute, then cut into wedges. Top with chopped cilantro or green onions, if you like.
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Serve with: Sour cream, guacamole, or additional BBQ sauce for dipping.
Additional Tips
✔ Use rotisserie chicken for an even faster prep time.
✔ Double the batch and freeze extras—just reheat in a pan or air fryer.
✔ Don’t overfill to prevent ingredients from spilling out during cooking.
✔ Low-moisture cheeses (such as pre-shredded blends) help maintain a crisp texture.
Q&A About BBQ Chicken Quesadilla
Q: Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?
A: Yes! Store-bought BBQ sauce works great. Choose a smoky, sweet, or spicy variety based on your taste. If you prefer homemade, that works too.
Q: Which type of chicken works best for this recipe?
A: Shredded rotisserie chicken is perfect for convenience, but you can also use grilled, baked, or leftover chicken breast or thighs.
Q: Can I prepare these quesadillas in advance?
A: Yes! Assemble them ahead of time and store in the fridge (covered) for up to 1 day. Cook when ready to serve. You can freeze them for 2 months—how should you reheat them? A skillet or air fryer works best.
Q: What type of cheese melts best in quesadillas?
A: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican blend are all excellent choices. They melt well and complement BBQ flavors.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Just use certified gluten-free tortillas and make sure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free.
Q: What sides pair best with BBQ chicken quesadillas?
A: Serve with tortilla chips, salsa, guacamole, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this quesadilla?
A: Definitely. Add sautéed bell peppers, corn, black beans, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
Q: How do I keep the quesadilla crispy?
A: Cook over medium heat so the tortilla crisps up without burning and the cheese has time to melt. Avoid overfilling and use a light coating of oil or butter in the pan.
Why You Should Make BBQ Chicken Quesadilla
✅ Quick & Easy
This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes with simple ingredients—perfect for busy weeknights, college students, or anyone who wants something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
✅ Family-Friendly
Kids and adults love it! Who can resist sweet, smoky BBQ paired with ooey-gooey melted cheese? It’s a surefire crowd-pleaser!
✅ Versatile
You can customize it with whatever you have on hand—add veggies, swap the protein, or experiment with different cheeses and sauces. A great hack for turning leftovers into something delicious!
✅ Freezer-Friendly
Make a double batch and freeze extras. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer for a crispy, no-fuss meal in minutes.
✅ Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s lunch, dinner, game night, or even a party appetizer, these quesadillas hit the spot every time.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – 1 Quesadilla)
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Calories: 520–580 kcal
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Total Fat: 26g
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Saturated Fat: 9g
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Trans Fat: 0g
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Cholesterol: 75mg
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Sodium: 850–1000mg
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Total Carbohydrates: 42g
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Dietary Fiber: 2g
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Sugars: 12g
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Protein: 32g
⚠️ Note: Values will vary depending on brands and exact ingredients used. This is an approximation.
Happy Cooking
Diana
