Introduction and Quick Summary
Have you ever craved a dish that combines the smoky sweetness of barbecue sauce with the gooey goodness of melted cheese? Picture this: a golden-brown tortilla stuffed with tender shredded chicken, zesty barbecue sauce, and your favorite cheeses. The aroma wafts through the air as it cooks to perfection on the skillet. This is not just any dish; it’s a BBQ Chicken Quesadilla that promises to delight your senses.
This delicious recipe is perfect for game day gatherings, casual family dinners, or a quick weeknight meal when you need something satisfying yet effortless. With its crispy exterior and flavorful filling, each bite offers a burst of flavor that will leave everyone asking for more. Prepare to impress your guests or treat yourself to a comforting meal that’s ready in just minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Bbq Chicken Quesadilla
- Quick and Easy: This BBQ chicken quesadilla can be made in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Feel free to add extra vegetables or use different types of cheese.
- Perfect for Leftovers: If you have leftover grilled chicken or barbecue sauce from another meal, this recipe is a fantastic way to use them up without much effort.
Ingredients for Bbq Chicken Quesadilla
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken for the best flavor and texture.
- BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version to achieve the desired flavor profile.
- Flour Tortillas: Opt for large tortillas to hold all the delicious filling comfortably.
- Shredded Cheese: A blend of cheddar and mozzarella works well for melting and flavor.
- Olive Oil: Use olive oil to lightly grease the skillet and help achieve a crispy exterior.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Bbq Chicken Quesadilla
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by cooking your boneless skinless chicken breasts in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked (about 6-7 minutes per side). Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks.
Step 2: Mix with BBQ Sauce
In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with about half a cup of your favorite BBQ sauce. Toss until evenly coated.
Step 3: Preheat the Skillet
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and drizzle with olive oil. Allow it to warm up for about one minute.
Step 4: Assemble the Quesadillas
Place one tortilla in the preheated skillet. On half of the tortilla, layer some of the BBQ chicken mixture followed by shredded cheese. Fold over the other half.
Step 5: Cook Until Golden Brown
Cook for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown on one side then carefully flip it over using a spatula. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until both sides are crispy and cheese melts.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Remove from heat and let them cool slightly before slicing into wedges. Transfer to plates and serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For even quicker prep time, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Try adding pepper jack cheese for some added spice or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers or onions into your filling for added nutrition and flavor.
Mistakes to avoid
- Using Dry Chicken: One common mistake when preparing BBQ chicken quesadillas is using dry or overcooked chicken. This can lead to a less enjoyable texture and flavor. To avoid this, ensure you cook the chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and consider marinating it beforehand. A good marinade not only adds flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist during cooking, resulting in a delicious quesadilla.
- Neglecting Cheese Quality: Another pitfall is choosing low-quality cheese. The cheese you use can make or break your BBQ chicken quesadilla. Opt for a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and cheddar for a perfect melt and rich flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses if possible, as they often contain anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Freshly grated cheese provides a creamy texture that elevates your dish.
- Overloading with Fillings: While it may be tempting to load your quesadilla with too many fillings, this can result in a messy outcome. Overstuffed quesadillas can be challenging to cook evenly and may fall apart during flipping. Stick to a balanced ratio of chicken, cheese, and other ingredients like veggies or sauces. This approach ensures each bite is flavorful without compromising the structure of your BBQ chicken quesadilla.
Serving Suggestions
This Bbq Chicken Quesadilla is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Fresh Salsa: A vibrant salsa made with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the quesadilla.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole enhances the dish, providing a smooth texture that complements the crispy quesadilla.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can balance the smokiness of the BBQ sauce with its tangy flavor, making each bite even more enjoyable.
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for BBQ Chicken Quesadilla?
To make BBQ Chicken Quesadilla, you will need a few key ingredients. Start with shredded cooked chicken, ideally seasoned with your favorite BBQ sauce. You’ll also need flour tortillas, shredded cheese (like cheddar or Monterey Jack), and optional toppings such as bell peppers and onions. These ingredients come together to create a deliciously cheesy and smoky quesadilla that everyone will love.
Can I make BBQ Chicken Quesadilla ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare BBQ Chicken Quesadilla in advance. You can assemble them and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before cooking. Just be sure to separate each quesadilla with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply cook them on a skillet until they are golden brown and the cheese melts perfectly. This makes it convenient for meal prep or entertaining guests.
What variations can I try for BBQ Chicken Quesadilla?
There are many delicious variations for BBQ Chicken Quesadilla. You can experiment by adding different types of cheese, like pepper jack for extra spice. Consider incorporating veggies such as spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with black beans or grilled vegetables while still using BBQ sauce for flavor.
How do I store leftover BBQ Chicken Quesadilla?
If you have leftover BBQ Chicken Quesadillas, allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through or use an oven at 350°F until crispy again. This way, you can enjoy this tasty dish even after your initial meal.
Conclusion for Bbq Chicken Quesadilla
In conclusion, the Bbq Chicken Quesadilla is a delightful combination of smoky flavors and gooey cheese that makes it an ideal meal or snack option. With simple ingredients like shredded chicken, tortillas, and cheese, it’s easy to prepare at home. Pair it with fresh salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for added flavor dimensions that elevate your dining experience. Whether enjoyed as part of a casual dinner or at a festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. Don’t hesitate to customize it further by exploring various ingredients and serving options.
Bbq Chicken Quesadilla
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
BBQ Chicken Quesadilla is a deliciously satisfying dish that combines the smoky flavor of barbecue sauce with gooey melted cheese, all encased in a crispy tortilla. This easy recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or game day gatherings. Imagine sinking your teeth into a golden-brown quesadilla filled with tender shredded chicken, zesty BBQ sauce, and a melty blend of cheeses. Each bite offers an explosion of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing. You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite veggies or experimenting with different types of cheese to suit your palate. Serve it alongside fresh salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for an extra layer of deliciousness and enjoy a crowd-pleasing meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella blend)
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken until fully cooked (about 6-7 minutes per side). Shred the chicken.
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
- Preheat a non-stick skillet and drizzle with olive oil.
- Place one tortilla in the skillet, add the BBQ chicken mixture and cheese on half, then fold it over.
- Cook until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes), flip, and cook the other side until crispy and cheese melts.
- Slice into wedges and serve with additional BBQ sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 quesadilla (150g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
