BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Recipe: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Favorite
Looking for a quick and mouthwatering meal that’s sure to please everyone? BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are the answer. This simple recipe perfectly combines smoky BBQ chicken, gooey melted cheese, and crispy tortillas – a flavor-packed twist on your typical quesadilla. Let’s dive into how to make these tasty treats in just a few easy steps!
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if you prefer)
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
- Olive oil or butter for cooking
Instructions:
- Cook the Chicken: Start by cooking your chicken. You can grill, pan-fry, or bake it – whatever works! If you’re pan-frying, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Once done, shred it up with a fork and mix it with ½ cup of BBQ sauce.
- Assemble the Quesadilla: Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous amount of BBQ chicken mixture on one half of the tortilla, then top with a good handful of shredded cheese. Feel free to toss a few slices of red onion or fresh cilantro for extra flavor and crunch. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
- Cook the Quesadilla: Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the folded quesadilla in the pan and cook on each side for about 2-3 minutes, pressing gently with a spatula. You want a golden, crispy exterior and melty cheese inside. Keep an eye on it – you don’t want to burn the tortilla before the cheese has a chance to melt.
- Serve and Enjoy: Take it out of the pan once your quesadilla is perfectly crispy and the cheese is gooey. Slice it into wedges and serve with a dollop of sour cream, guacamole, or salsa on the side.
Tips for the Perfect BBQ Chicken Quesadilla:
- Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack for a great melt and flavor.
- Experiment with different BBQ sauces for varying levels of sweetness or smokiness.
- Add diced bell peppers, corn, or pineapple for a fun twist.
- Keep the heat medium – you want the cheese to melt without burning the tortilla.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas with a fresh salad, crispy chips, or even creamy coleslaw. Want to keep it light? A simple side of guacamole or salsa will hit the spot!
Variations:
- Spicy BBQ Chicken Quesadilla: Add sliced jalapeños or a spicy BBQ sauce to reduce the heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Try swapping the chicken for grilled veggies or beans for a satisfying meat-free version.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortillas for a delicious gluten-free meal.
Conclusion:
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are a simple, tasty way to enjoy all your favorite flavors wrapped in a crispy, cheesy tortilla. These quesadillas will impress whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a weekend snack. Give them a try and let us know how they turn out – we promise you’ll be hooked!
Happy cooking!