Barbecue Chicken Quesadillas
There’s something truly comforting about a plate full of Barbecue Chicken Quesadillas. I remember the first time I tried making these on a casual summer evening. I had a few friends over, and I wanted to whip up something that was easy yet incredibly tasty. The aroma of the grilled chicken mingling with the smoky barbecue sauce filled the air, instantly making everyone feel at home. With vibrant avocado and melted mozzarella cheese tucked inside a crispy tortilla, these quesadillas are the perfect blend of flavors and textures. What I love most is how versatile they are. You can easily switch up the ingredients based on your favorites or what you have on hand. I’ve even made them with different cheeses and added extra veggies for a fun twist! Sharing these with friends over laughter and good conversation just makes them all the more enjoyable. These quesadillas are my go-to whenever I’m looking for a quick meal that feels a little special.
Recipe Snapshot
60 mins
0 mins
0 mins
Easy
350 kcal
28 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
15 g
Mixing Bowl, Skillet, Frying Pan, Oven, Cutting Board
The Best Thing About This Barbecue Chicken Quesadillas
Quick and Easy to Prepare
One of the biggest reasons I adore Barbecue Chicken Quesadillas is the sheer simplicity of making them. In less than an hour, you can have a delicious meal ready to enjoy. The process involves cooking the chicken, shredding it, and then assembling the quesadillas. It’s almost therapeutic, and you can even involve your kids in the fun!
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, Barbecue Chicken Quesadillas fit the bill perfectly. They’re easy to serve and share, making them an excellent choice for parties or game days. Plus, they’re always a crowd-pleaser!
Flavor Explosion
The combination of flavors in these quesadillas is simply irresistible. The smoky taste of the barbecue sauce complements the tender chicken, while the creamy texture of the avocado and the gooey mozzarella elevate each bite. You can even customize them with your favorite toppings like sour cream or fresh cilantro for an extra kick.
Healthy Twist
Using whole-grain tortillas and fresh ingredients, Barbecue Chicken Quesadillas can be a healthier option compared to many takeout choices. You’ll feel good knowing you’re enjoying a meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Meal Prep Friendly
If you’re looking to save time during the week, these quesadillas can be prepped in advance. You can cook the chicken and make the filling ahead of time, so all you need to do is assemble and cook them when you’re ready to eat. It’s a great way to have a homemade meal in no time!
Kid-Approved
Kids love quesadillas, and Barbecue Chicken Quesadillas are no exception! The fun shape, combined with familiar flavors, makes them a hit with little ones. You can even get creative by incorporating vegetables to sneak in some extra nutrition.
What to Buy for Barbecue Chicken Quesadillas
When creating your Barbecue Chicken Quesadillas, it’s essential to choose quality ingredients that complement each other perfectly. The combination of tender chicken, rich barbecue sauce, and creamy avocado creates a delicious flavor profile that’s balanced and satisfying. These ingredients work beautifully together to deliver a tasty meal.
- 1 chicken breast on the bone, with skin (about 10-12 ounces): This lean protein is the star of the dish, providing a hearty base for your quesadillas.
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce: The key ingredient that brings all the flavors together, adding smoky sweetness to the chicken.
- 1 avocado, diced: Fresh and creamy, avocado adds texture and richness to the quesadilla.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, part-skim, shredded: This cheese melts beautifully, giving the quesadillas their gooey, satisfying texture.
- 6 whole-grain tortillas (6-inch): These serve as the perfect wrap for your delicious filling, adding a nice crunch when cooked.
Cooking Method for Barbecue Chicken Quesadillas
Cooking Barbecue Chicken Quesadillas is a straightforward process that anyone can master. The first step is to prepare the chicken, ensuring it’s cooked through and flavorful. Then, it’s all about assembling the quesadillas and cooking them to golden perfection!
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This is crucial for cooking the chicken evenly. While it’s heating, you can get started on the next steps.
- Add the chicken breast and a quarter cup of water to a small casserole pan. Cover it loosely with foil. This helps to keep the moisture in while the chicken cooks. Let it cook for about 45 minutes or until the juices run clear and the chicken is tender.
- Once the chicken is cooked through, allow it to cool until you can handle it. Remove the skin and discard it. Use a fork to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This step adds a lovely texture to the quesadillas.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the barbecue sauce. Mix thoroughly to ensure all the pieces are coated with the sauce, which adds flavor to each bite.
- Next, place one tortilla on a medium nonstick skillet over medium heat. You want the skillet hot enough to give the tortilla a nice crisp without burning.
- On one half of the tortilla, sprinkle with a heaping tablespoon of mozzarella cheese. Then, add one-sixth of the chicken and barbecue mixture and one-sixth of the diced avocado.
- Add another heaping tablespoon of cheese on top of the filling. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps the quesadilla hold together.
- Fold the tortilla over to cover the filling. Press it down slightly to help it seal.
- Cook on both sides for about 2 minutes or until the tortilla turns golden brown and the cheese is melted. You’ll know it’s done when you see a beautiful golden color.
- Once cooked, remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it cool for a minute before cutting it into wedges. This prevents the cheese from oozing out.
Things Worth Knowing
- Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh chicken and ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t skip the water: Adding water while cooking the chicken helps keep it moist.
- Adjust the heat: If you find the tortillas browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly to ensure the filling warms through without burning the outside.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add spices or hot sauce to the barbecue sauce for an extra kick!
Helpful Hints
When making Barbecue Chicken Quesadillas, these tips can elevate your cooking experience. From storage to serving suggestions, these insights can help you make the most of your meal.
- Storage: Leftover quesadillas should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for 3 to 4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked quesadillas for easy meals later. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and they’ll be good for up to 2 months.
- Pairing: These quesadillas pair wonderfully with a side salad, chips, or even some fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
- Customization: Add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the filling for added nutrition.
- Serving: Serve with sides of guacamole, sour cream, or salsa for dipping!
Serving Ideas for Barbecue Chicken Quesadillas
The ways to serve Barbecue Chicken Quesadillas are virtually endless! Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable:
- Lunch or Dinner: These quesadillas make for a hearty lunch or a satisfying dinner that everyone will love.
- Game Day Treat: Perfect for serving at parties or on game days—everyone can enjoy them while watching the game.
- With Dips: Serve with a range of dips such as guacamole, salsa, or ranch dressing for extra flavor.
- Seasonal Flavors: Experiment with seasonal ingredients, like roasted corn in the summer or sautéed mushrooms in the fall, to keep things interesting.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, reheat them in a skillet to retain their crunchiness instead of using a microwave.
- Family Style: Present the quesadillas on a large platter for a family-style meal. It makes serving easier and encourages sharing!
FAQ
Conclusion
In conclusion, Barbecue Chicken Quesadillas are a delightful way to enjoy a meal that’s both simple and satisfying. With tender chicken, creamy avocado, and gooey cheese, they deliver a wonderful mix of flavors that everyone will love. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
Barbecue Chicken Quesadillas
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Skillet
- Frying Pan
- Oven
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 1 chicken breast chicken breast on the bone, with skin (about 10-12 ounces)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, part-skim, shredded
- 6 whole-grain tortillas (6-inch) whole-grain tortillas
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.
- Add chicken breast and 1/4 cup water to a small casserole pan, cover loosely with foil and cook for 45 minutes or until cooked through and juices run clear. Allow chicken to cool until it can be handled, remove skin and discard. Shred chicken with a fork.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken and barbecue sauce.
- Place one tortilla on a medium nonstick skillet and turn to medium heat. On one half of the tortilla, sprinkle with 1 heaping tablespoon mozzarella cheese, add 1/6th of chicken barbecue mixture, 1/6th of diced avocado, sprinkle another heaping tablespoon cheese and fold the tortilla over.
- Cook on both sides for about 2 minutes or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
