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BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

A simple dinner that combines sweet, smoky barbecue and gooey cheese into a delicious quesadilla that everyone will love.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Tex-Mex
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Rotisserie chicken works beautifully for speed.
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce Your favorite kind – smoky or sweet.
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack blend Can swap for mozzarella for a milder pull.
  • 1/2 unit red onion, thinly sliced Caramelize if you want a sweeter note.
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels Fresh or frozen; omit for low-FODMAP.
  • 6 large flour tortillas Use whole wheat or gluten-free as needed.
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil For crisping the tortillas.

Optional Ingredients

  • chopped cilantro For brightness.
  • sliced jalapeno For added heat.
  • lime wedges For serving.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a medium bowl, combine shredded chicken with 3/4 cup barbecue sauce. Stir until every strand is glossy and flavorful. Taste and add more sauce if desired.
  • Heat a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat and add 1/2 tablespoon butter or oil.

Cooking

  • On a clean surface, lay one tortilla flat. Sprinkle 1/3 cup cheese across half the tortilla, add a generous 1/2 cup of the BBQ chicken mixture, a few red onion slices, and a sprinkle of corn. Top with another 1/3 cup cheese.
  • Fold the tortilla over to make a half-moon. Place in the hot skillet and press gently with a spatula. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and the cheese has melted.
  • Repeat with remaining tortillas, adding small pats of butter as needed. Keep finished quesadillas wrapped in foil in a warm oven (about 200°F or 95°C) while cooking the rest.
  • Let each quesadilla rest for 1 minute, then slice into wedges. Serve with lime wedges, extra barbecue sauce, and a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, substitute shredded jackfruit or seasoned beans for the chicken. Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze individual wedges for up to 2 months.
Keyword BBQ Chicken Quesadillas, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Family Recipe, Weeknight Meal