BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are the ultimate quick-and-easy dinner when you want bold flavor with minimal fuss. Crispy tortillas stuffed with shredded BBQ chicken, gooey melted cheese, red onions, and cilantro come together in one pan in under 20 minutes. Whether you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken or cooking fresh, these quesadillas are a weeknight lifesaver.

Savory, smoky, cheesy, and a little tangy this recipe is a guaranteed family favorite and also a hit at parties or game nights. Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce for the perfect finish.

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Why This Recipe Works

• Quick & Easy: Done in under 20 minutes, with minimal prep.
• Great for leftovers: Use rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken.
• Crowd-pleasing flavor: Smoky BBQ sauce + cheese = irresistible.
• One-pan recipe: Easy cleanup and no complicated steps.
• Customizable: Use your favorite BBQ sauce and cheese combos.

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Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or grilled)
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup finely diced red onion
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1 tablespoon butter or neutral oil, for pan
• Optional sides: sour cream, guacamole, extra BBQ sauce

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How to Make BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce. Mix until the chicken is well coated.

Step 2: Assemble the Quesadillas

Lay out the tortillas. On one half of each tortilla, layer shredded mozzarella, BBQ chicken, red onion, cheddar cheese, and cilantro (if using). Fold over to form a half-moon shape.

Step 3: Cook the Quesadillas

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter or oil. Once hot, place the quesadillas in the pan (one or two at a time depending on pan size). Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

Remove from heat and let rest for 1 minute. Slice each quesadilla into wedges and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

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Helpful Tips for the Best Quesadillas

• Use freshly shredded cheese: It melts better than pre-packaged.
• Low and slow: Cook on medium heat to avoid burning the tortilla before cheese melts.
• Butter adds flavor: Use butter for a golden, crispy exterior.
• Keep them warm: If making a batch, keep cooked quesadillas warm in a 200°F oven.
• Use a non-stick skillet: Makes flipping easy and prevents sticking.

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Mistakes to Avoid

• Overstuffing: Too much filling makes them hard to flip and cook unevenly.
• Using wet chicken: Excess moisture makes the tortilla soggy. Use dry, shredded chicken.
• High heat: Will burn the outside before the cheese has a chance to melt.
• Skipping the resting time: Letting it sit for a minute after cooking helps the cheese set before slicing.
• Using only one cheese: A mix of cheeses gives better melt and flavor.

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What to Serve With BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

These quesadillas are satisfying on their own but even better with sides and dips. Here are some great options:

• Sour cream: For creamy, tangy contrast
• Guacamole or sliced avocado: Adds cool creaminess
• Pico de gallo or salsa: Fresh and zesty
• Corn salad: Lightens up the meal
• Coleslaw: Adds crunch and balances the sweetness of BBQ
• Pickled jalapeños: For a little kick
• Chips and queso: Great for a party platter

You can also turn them into a full meal with a side salad or serve with Mexican rice and beans for a heartier dinner.

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Storage Tips

Refrigerator: Let the quesadillas cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap individual quesadillas in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For best texture, reheat in a skillet over low heat or in a 375°F oven. Avoid microwaving as it may turn soggy.

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Custom Variations

• Make it spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or drizzle hot sauce inside.
• Add veggies: Bell peppers, corn, or black beans go great.
• Use different cheeses: Pepper Jack, Gouda, or even smoked provolone add fun twists.
• Switch sauces: Try buffalo sauce, chipotle mayo, or a honey-mustard glaze.
• Turn it vegetarian: Use grilled tofu or jackfruit tossed in BBQ sauce.

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Nutrition Estimate (Per Quesadilla)

• Calories: 430
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 740mg

Based on using standard BBQ sauce and flour tortillas. Adjust based on specific brands and serving sizes.

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FAQs

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely. It’s a great shortcut and works perfectly in this recipe.

What kind of BBQ sauce is best?

Use your favorite! Smoky, spicy, sweet whatever flavor profile you enjoy most.

Can I bake these instead of pan-frying?

Yes. Preheat oven to 400°F and bake for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What’s the best cheese combo for quesadillas?

A mix of mozzarella for melt and cheddar for flavor works beautifully. Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack also melt wonderfully.

Are BBQ Chicken Quesadillas kid-friendly?

Yes! Most kids love the cheesy, BBQ flavor. You can omit onions or cilantro if preferred.

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Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are one of those meals that check every box—quick, delicious, filling, and family-approved. With crispy tortillas, melty cheese, and saucy chicken, each bite is packed with smoky flavor and satisfying textures. They’re also incredibly versatile, whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a casual dinner for two.

Customize them your way, serve with your favorite dips, and keep extras in the fridge for a crave-worthy snack anytime. This is one recipe you’ll want on repeat all year round.