These Loaded BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are a tasty treat, packed with shredded chicken, cheese, and sweet BBQ sauce! Quick and easy to make, they are perfect for a cozy fall dinner.
Throw in your favorite veggies and grill until crispy. Who can resist melted cheese oozing from a warm quesadilla? I often serve these with a side of sour cream for extra fun! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for its flavor and convenience. If you’re in a pinch, leftover grilled or baked chicken works too. You can even use shredded tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce! If you prefer something less sweet, look for a smoky or tangy version. For a homemade option, mix ketchup, vinegar, and spices.
Cheese: While I prefer sharp cheddar for its taste, feel free to use Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend. Vegan cheese is a great substitute if you’re avoiding dairy.
Vegetables: Bell peppers and corn add a nice crunch, but feel free to swap in diced tomatoes or onions. Spinach or black beans can also work for added nutrients.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Quesadillas?
Getting that perfect crispy exterior requires a bit of technique. Here’s how to ensure your quesadillas turn out golden and delicious:
- Use moderate heat. Too high and the outside will burn before the cheese melts.
- Use enough oil or butter to coat the skillet evenly, which helps achieve a crisp texture.
- Press down gently on the quesadilla with your spatula while cooking to help the filling meld together.
- Stay patient! Allow each side to cook for 3-4 minutes for the best results.
Loaded BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or cooked chicken breasts)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped jalapeño peppers (optional for heat)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
For the Quesadillas:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
For Serving:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for serving)
- Extra barbecue sauce (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10-15 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a busy fall evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken with the barbecue sauce. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated in the sauce. Then, add in the corn, diced red bell pepper, and jalapeño peppers (if you’d like some heat). Stir everything together until well combined.
2. Cook the Quesadillas:
Heat half a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Take a flour tortilla and place it in the skillet. On one half of the tortilla, evenly sprinkle half a cup of shredded cheese. Then, spoon about a quarter of the BBQ chicken mixture on top of the cheese.
3. Fold and Grill:
Carefully fold the tortilla in half over the filling. Press down gently with a spatula. Cook this side until it’s golden brown and crispy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Once golden, flip the quesadilla and cook the other side until it’s also golden and the cheese has melted, another 3-4 minutes.
4. Repeat and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the quesadilla from the skillet and transfer it to a cutting board. Repeat the process for the remaining tortillas and filling, adding more oil or butter to the skillet as needed. Allow the quesadillas to cool for a minute before slicing them into wedges.
5. Garnish and Enjoy:
Garnish the quesadillas with chopped cilantro and serve them warm with sour cream and extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.
Enjoy these loaded, cheesy BBQ chicken quesadillas that make a perfect, flavorful fall dinner! They’re quick to make and sure to be a hit with family and friends!
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Can I Use Store-Bought BBQ Sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought BBQ sauce is a great time-saver and comes in various flavors. Just choose one you enjoy to complement the chicken. If you want to kick it up a notch, consider mixing in some spices or hot sauce to customize it!
How to Make Quesadillas Crispy?
For crispy quesadillas, ensure you’re using enough oil or butter in the skillet. Cook them over medium heat to allow the cheese to melt without burning the tortilla. Pressing down gently with a spatula also helps achieve that golden-brown crust.
Can I Make These Quesadillas Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the shredded chicken with a filling like black beans, sautéed mushrooms, or a mixture of vegetables. You can also use a plant-based BBQ sauce for an extra layer of flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat for best results, or in the microwave if you’re in a hurry. Enjoy them warm with a fresh garnish!