When it comes to quick, delicious meals, quesadillas are a top contender. But why settle for the classic cheese version when you can take it up a notch with BBQ chicken quesadillas? This dish combines the smoky, tangy flavor of barbecue sauce with tender chicken and gooey melted cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. Perfect for a simple weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these quesadillas will have you craving more with every bite.
Recipe for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix)
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (for serving)
- 1/4 cup salsa (for serving)
- Olive oil or butter (for cooking)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by mixing the shredded or diced chicken with the BBQ sauce in a bowl. Make sure the chicken is fully coated with the sauce for maximum flavor.
2. Assemble the Quesadillas
Lay out two tortillas on a flat surface. Spread the BBQ chicken mixture evenly over each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the chicken, then add a few slices of red onion and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro.
3. Cook the Quesadillas
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil or butter, swirling to coat. Place one of the prepared tortillas (with toppings) into the skillet. Top with another tortilla to form a sandwich. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it rest for a minute before slicing it into wedges. Serve with a dollop of sour cream, salsa, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
Tips & Variations
- Don’t overfill: While it’s tempting to load up your quesadilla with as much filling as possible, too much can make it difficult to flip and result in a messy, uneven cook.
- Choose the right cheese: A good melting cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack is essential. For an extra kick, try adding a little pepper jack.
- Use leftover chicken: BBQ chicken quesadillas are a great way to use up leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken. Just shred it and mix with your favorite BBQ sauce.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to get creative! Add some jalapeños for heat, or throw in some corn or black beans for added texture and flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing Meals Start at The Butcher Shop
BBQ chicken quesadillas are a delicious and easy way to bring bold flavors to your table. Make sure you’re bringing the freshest bold flavors with The Butcher Shop. At TBS, our fresh meats and seafood are 100% natural and locally sourced – just like our fresh fruits and vegetables. You’ll also find local wines, beers, and even 100% natural, all meat dog food. Stop by today or call ahead to pre-order your ingredients.