BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

Name: BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken breast or thighs, shredded; 1/2 cup barbecue sauce; 8 flour tortillas; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or blend); 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional); 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional); 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter, for cooking

BBQ chicken quesadillas are a flavorful, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. Made with tender chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, and melted cheese, all tucked into crispy tortillas, this recipe is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a party appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These quesadillas are loaded with smoky barbecue flavor and gooey cheese, making them irresistible. They’re quick to prepare, use simple ingredients, and are versatile enough for picky eaters or creative variations. Plus, they can be served as a hearty meal or cut into wedges for sharing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked chicken breast or thighs, shredded
Barbecue sauce
Flour tortillas
Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
Red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
Fresh cilantro (optional)
Olive oil or butter, for cooking

Directions

In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with barbecue sauce until coated.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly coat with butter or oil.
Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with cheese.
Add a layer of BBQ chicken, onion, and cilantro (if using).
Sprinkle with more cheese, then top with a second tortilla.
Cook until the bottom is golden brown, then carefully flip and cook the other side until crisp and the cheese is melted.
Remove from the skillet and let rest for a minute before slicing into wedges.

Servings and timing

Serves 4 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Spicy BBQ Quesadillas: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Veggie Boost: Include bell peppers, corn, or spinach.
Buffalo Twist: Swap BBQ sauce for buffalo sauce.
Protein Swap: Rotisserie chicken instead.
Kid-Friendly: Keep it simple with just BBQ chicken and cheese.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to keep the tortilla crispy, or in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.
Freezing is not recommended, as tortillas may become soggy.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and makes the recipe even quicker.

What’s the best cheese for quesadillas?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend melt beautifully.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the quesadillas and refrigerate for up to a few hours before cooking.

Do I need to use butter in the skillet?

Butter adds flavor and crispiness, but you can also use olive oil or a nonstick spray.

How do I prevent the quesadillas from falling apart?

Use enough cheese to “glue” the layers together, and press gently with a spatula while cooking.

Can I cook them in the oven instead of a skillet?

Yes, bake at 425°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispness.

What sides go well with BBQ chicken quesadillas?

Serve with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or a fresh green salad.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free tortillas and check that your barbecue sauce is gluten-free.

How do I make them extra crispy?

Cook on medium heat and avoid overstuffing. A cast iron skillet also gives the best crisp.

Can I add beans to the filling?

Absolutely, black beans or pinto beans make a great addition for extra protein and texture.

Conclusion

BBQ chicken quesadillas are the perfect blend of smoky, cheesy, and crispy goodness. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, they make a fantastic weeknight dinner, party appetizer, or snack. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this delicious comfort food in no time