BBQ Chicken and Cheddar

This BBQ Chicken Quesadilla transforms simple ingredients into a flavor-packed meal that's ready in just 30 minutes. The combination of tangy barbecue sauce, tender shredded chicken, and melty cheese creates a satisfying dish that never disappoints.

I first made these quesadillas when looking for creative ways to use leftover rotisserie chicken. They were such a hit that my family now requests them weekly regardless of whether we have leftover chicken or not.

Ingredients

• Shredded chicken: Provides the hearty protein base choose rotisserie for convenience or leftover grilled chicken for extra flavor
• BBQ sauce: Adds sweet tanginess look for one with balanced flavors not overly sweet
• Tortillas: Are the crispy vessel 8inch flour tortillas work best as they fold easily without tearing
• Cheddar cheese: Creates the perfect melt sharp varieties add more flavor while mild works well for kids

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Filling:

Combine shredded chicken and BBQ sauce in a medium bowl. Make sure every piece of chicken is coated evenly with sauce. This can be done ahead of time and refrigerated for even better flavor development.

Heat the Tortilla:

Place tortilla in a clean dry skillet over medium low heat. Allow it to warm slightly for about 30 seconds before adding ingredients. This initial warming helps ensure proper folding without breaking.

Add Fillings:

Sprinkle half of the tortilla with a layer of cheese followed by a generous portion of the BBQ chicken mixture. Add another layer of cheese on top of the chicken. The double layer of cheese acts as glue to hold everything together when melted.

Fold and Toast:

Carefully fold the empty half of the tortilla over the fillings creating a half moon shape. Press gently with a spatula to seal. Cook for 2 3 minutes per side until golden brown spots appear and cheese is fully melted.

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The barbecue sauce is truly the star ingredient here. I discovered that letting the chicken marinate in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before assembling creates an even more flavorful result. My son who normally picks apart his food will devour these quesadillas without a single complaint.

Make Ahead Options

These quesadillas work beautifully for meal prep. You can mix the chicken and BBQ sauce up to three days ahead and store in the refrigerator. For busy weeknights this means you can assemble and cook fresh quesadillas in less than 10 minutes. Just warm the chicken mixture slightly before assembling for the best melting results.

Customization Ideas

While the basic recipe is delicious you can easily customize these quesadillas to suit your taste. Try adding caramelized onions for sweetness thinly sliced jalapeños for heat or corn kernels for texture. For a more complex flavor profile substitute part of the cheddar with smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese. The possibilities are endless making this recipe a great canvas for creativity.

Serving Suggestions

These quesadillas are wonderful on their own but pairing them with complementary sides elevates the meal. Serve with a simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette for freshness or a side of Mexican style rice for a more substantial meal. For dipping consider offering sour cream guacamole or an extra ramekin of warmed BBQ sauce. On game day cut each quesadilla into triangles and arrange on a platter with various dipping options for an impressive appetizer spread.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover quesadillas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat place them in a dry skillet over medium low heat for a few minutes per side or in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible as it tends to make the tortillas soggy rather than crispy. For best results consume within two days of making.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I make BBQ chicken quesadillas crispy?

Ensure your skillet is hot enough and avoid overcrowding it. Lightly grease the pan for a crispy finish.

→ Can I use leftover BBQ chicken for this dish?

Absolutely! Leftover BBQ chicken works perfectly and reduces prep time.

→ What type of cheese is best for quesadillas?

Cheddar cheese melts beautifully, but you can use Monterey Jack or a cheese blend for added flavor.

→ Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway for even crisping.

→ Are there other fillings I can add?

You can add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños for extra layers of flavor.