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

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BBQ Chicken Quesadilla is a flavorful, crispy, and cheesy dish that combines smoky BBQ chicken with gooey melted cheese, all folded into a golden tortilla. It’s one of those recipes I reach for when I want something fast, satisfying, and full of bold flavor. The sweet and tangy BBQ sauce paired with savory chicken and melty cheese makes this quesadilla hard to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s super quick to make, especially if I already have cooked chicken on hand. It’s a perfect use for leftovers, and I can customize it easily with whatever cheese or extras I have in the fridge. It’s great for lunch, dinner, or even a snack, and it’s always a hit with both kids and adults. I also like how easy it is to double or triple the batch when I’m feeding a crowd. BBQ Chicken Quesadilla

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

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

Directions

I start by mixing the cooked chicken with BBQ sauce in a bowl until it’s fully coated.
I heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly oil it.
I place a tortilla on the skillet, sprinkle one half with shredded cheese, add a layer of BBQ chicken, then top with more cheese and optional onion or cilantro.
I fold the tortilla in half and cook it for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
I remove the quesadilla, let it cool for a minute, then slice it into wedges and serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 large quesadillas (about 4 servings) and takes only 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s ideal for a fast weeknight dinner or a casual lunch.

Variations

Sometimes I add jalapeños for heat or use pepper jack cheese for extra kick. I’ve also tried it with pulled pork or rotisserie chicken, and it works just as well. For a smoky twist, I add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or use a chipotle BBQ sauce. If I want more veggies, I throw in some sautéed bell peppers.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I use a skillet or air fryer to bring back the crispiness. The microwave works too, but the tortilla can get soft instead of crispy. BBQ Chicken Quesadilla

FAQs

Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?

Yes, I usually use my favorite bottled BBQ sauce, but homemade works great too if I have the time.

What kind of cheese melts best for quesadillas?

I like using a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack because they melt well and give that perfect gooey texture.

Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely. I’ve made these with beef, and even tofu for a vegetarian twist. It’s very flexible.

How do I make it extra crispy?

I make sure to use just a little oil in the pan and press the quesadilla gently with a spatula while it cooks. That helps it get nice and golden.

Can I freeze BBQ chicken quesadillas?

Yes, I freeze them after assembling (before cooking), or after cooking and cooling. I reheat them straight from frozen in the oven or air fryer.

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Quesadilla is one of my go-to meals when I need something quick, cheesy, and full of flavor. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for using up leftover chicken. Whether I’m feeding myself or making a batch for friends, it’s always a delicious and satisfying option.