BBQ Chicken Quesadillas – The Perfect Easy Dinner Idea Recipe
Introduction
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are a delicious and easy dinner option that combines tender shredded chicken with tangy barbecue sauce and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or casual gathering, these quesadillas are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken and barbecue sauce until the chicken is well coated.
- Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Step 3: Place one tortilla in the skillet, sprinkle with 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, evenly spread 1/2 cup of the BBQ chicken mixture over the cheese, then top with another 1/2 cup of shredded cheese.
- Step 4: Cover with a second tortilla and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the bottom tortilla is golden and the cheese starts melting.
- Step 5: Carefully flip the quesadilla and cook another 3-4 minutes until the second side is golden and the cheese is fully melted.
- Step 6: Remove from the skillet and repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Step 7: Slice the cooked quesadillas into wedges, garnish with chopped green onions if desired, and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- Try adding slices of jalapeño or a dash of smoked paprika for extra smoky heat.
- Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and Monterey Jack for a creamier texture.
- Swap out the chicken for pulled pork or shredded beef for a different twist.
- To make it vegetarian, substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or black beans.
Storage
Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in a toaster oven to keep the tortillas crispy. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the quesadillas soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
Yes, canned chicken can be used in a pinch. Just drain it well and mix it with the barbecue sauce before assembling the quesadillas.
How do I prevent the quesadillas from getting soggy?
Cooking them in a hot skillet with a bit of oil and flipping carefully helps keep the tortillas crisp. Avoid adding too much filling that might release excess moisture.
PrintBBQ Chicken Quesadillas – The Perfect Easy Dinner Idea Recipe
This BBQ Chicken Quesadillas recipe offers a deliciously easy dinner option featuring tender shredded chicken coated in savory barbecue sauce, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy golden tortillas. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, these quesadillas combine smoky, tangy flavors with a satisfying cheesy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
Quesadilla Base
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the BBQ Chicken: In a bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with barbecue sauce, stirring until the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce to infuse it with rich BBQ flavor.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, allowing it to warm up and coat the pan evenly for cooking the quesadillas.
- Assemble the First Quesadilla: Lay one flour tortilla flat in the hot skillet. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tortilla, then spread 1/2 cup of the BBQ chicken mixture on top. Follow with another 1/2 cup of shredded cheese, which helps bind the filling and adds gooey texture.
- Top and Cook: Cover the filling with a second tortilla, pressing gently. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the bottom tortilla turns golden brown and the cheese starts to melt.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: Carefully flip the quesadilla using a spatula and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the other side is golden and the cheese is fully melted throughout.
- Repeat the Process: Remove the cooked quesadilla from the skillet and add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Repeat the assembling and cooking steps with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Serve: Slice the quesadillas into wedges, garnish with chopped green onions if desired, and serve while warm for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use cooked shredded chicken from a rotisserie or leftover chicken to save time.
- Add jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier alternative.
- Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for extra flavor.
Keywords: bbq chicken quesadillas, easy dinner, quick meal, shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, skillet quesadillas
