BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

Name: BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 1 cup BBQ sauce; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 4 large flour tortillas; 1 cup sliced bell peppers (mixed colors); 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving)

Published: November 20, 2025

by Sarah Conley

Why You'll Love This BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

This incredible BBQ Chicken Quesadillas transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious BBQ Chicken Quesadillas:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade sauce to bring out that smoky flavor.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for a bold flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the barbecue sauce.
Flour Tortillas: Use large tortillas to hold all the delicious fillings without tearing during cooking.
Sliced Bell Peppers: A mix of red and green bell peppers adds both color and crunch.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions give a fresh pop of flavor that brightens up each bite.

For the Sauce:

Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and balances out the spices in your quesadilla.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious BBQ Chicken Quesadillas:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by preheating your grill or skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill them until fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side. Once done, set them aside to rest before shredding.

Step 2: Shred the Chicken

After resting for about five minutes, shred the grilled chicken using two forks or your hands (if you’re feeling brave). Toss it with your favorite BBQ sauce until well coated.

Step 3: Prepare Your Tortilla

Lay a flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. On one half of the tortilla, sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese. Top it with a portion of the BBQ chicken mixture and layer some sliced bell peppers and chopped green onions on top.

Step 4: Fold and Cook

Fold your tortilla in half over the filling like a delicious taco! Heat some oil in your skillet over medium heat. Place the folded quesadilla into the skillet and cook until golden brown and crispy on one side—about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Flip and Finish

Carefully flip the quesadilla over using a spatula (and maybe some magic) to cook the other side until it’s also golden brown and cheesy—another few minutes should do it!

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Once cooked perfectly on both sides, remove it from heat. Cut it into wedges with a pizza cutter or sharp knife! Serve hot with sour cream on the side for dipping.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra BBQ sauce for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy these mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Quesadillas as you gather around with friends or family—your taste buds will thank you!

You Must Know About BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

This showstopping BBQ Chicken Quesadillas delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through. While the chicken rests, sauté onions and peppers until tender. Then, assemble your quesadillas with cheese and the cooked filling before grilling them to crispy perfection.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap out the chicken for shredded beef or leftover rotisserie chicken. You can also experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or add jalapeños for an extra kick. The sky’s the limit!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover BBQ chicken quesadillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, or pop them in the oven at 350°F until warm.

Chef's Helpful Tips for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

This professional-quality BBQ Chicken Quesadillas relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sometimes I whip up these BBQ Chicken Quesadillas when friends come over, and their faces light up like kids on Christmas morning! The smiles are priceless, and that’s when I know I’ve nailed it!

FAQs

What are BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are a delicious Mexican-inspired dish made with tortillas filled with shredded chicken, barbecue sauce, and melted cheese. They offer a perfect blend of smoky, tangy flavors combined with the gooey texture of cheese. These quesadillas are easy to make and can be customized with additional ingredients like bell peppers or onions. Serving them with sour cream or guacamole elevates the flavor even more. Perfect for parties or a casual dinner, BBQ Chicken Quesadillas satisfy both adults and kids alike.

How can I customize my BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?

You can easily customize your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas by adding various ingredients to suit your taste. Consider including sautéed onions, fresh cilantro, or diced bell peppers for extra flavor. If you enjoy spice, jalapeños or pepper jack cheese can add a nice kick. You might also try different types of cheese such as cheddar or Monterey Jack. Experimenting with different barbecue sauces will give your quesadillas a unique twist, allowing you to create a personalized dish every time.

Can I make BBQ Chicken Quesadillas ahead of time?

Yes, you can make BBQ Chicken Quesadillas ahead of time for convenience. Prepare them fully and store them in the refrigerator before cooking. When ready to eat, simply heat them on a skillet until crispy and heated through. Alternatively, you can freeze uncooked quesadillas for a quick meal later. Just ensure they are tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This makes it easy for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.

What side dishes go well with BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their flavors. A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast. You could also serve tortilla chips alongside salsa or guacamole for added crunch and flavor. Coleslaw adds a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the crispy quesadilla. For something hearty, consider serving corn on the cob or Mexican rice as delicious accompaniments to complete your meal.

Conclusion

In summary, BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are a versatile and flavorful dish that you can easily make at home. With simple ingredients like shredded chicken and barbecue sauce, they become an instant hit at any gathering. Customize them to fit your taste preferences, whether you prefer spicy or mild options. Enjoy these delicious quesadillas with your favorite sides for an unforgettable meal experience. Don’t miss out on trying this delightful recipe; BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are sure to please everyone!

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