Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
When summer rolls around, nothing beats a quick, tasty meal that captures the essence of the season. As a busy parent or someone just getting your feet wet in the kitchen, you’ll love the simplicity of these BBQ Chicken Quesadillas. Packed with flavor and ready in just 15 minutes, they make the perfect dinner after a long day of fun in the sun.
What Is Summer Dinner Ideas: BBQ Chicken Quesadillas in 15 Minutes?
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are a delightful fusion of savory shredded chicken, zesty BBQ sauce, and gooey cheese all enveloped in a crispy tortilla. They are not only satisfying but also versatile, allowing you to experiment with various ingredients and flavors. The combination of rich, tangy BBQ sauce and melty cheese makes for a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy. In this recipe, you’ll master the art of quesadilla-making in no time, so let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
These quesadillas stand out for several reasons:
- **Quick and Easy:** With just 15 minutes from prep to plate, this meal is ideal for weeknight dinners.
- **Customizable:** You can switch up the ingredients based on what’s in your fridge or your family’s preferences.
- **Kid-Friendly:** Kids love the crispy outside and cheesy filling, making it an excellent option for family dinners.
- **Light and Flavorful:** The combination of BBQ chicken and cheese provides a fulfilling meal without being overly heavy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: This can be rotisserie chicken or any leftover grilled chicken. It’s the base of your quesadilla.
- 1 cup BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce; a tangy variety pairs excellently with chicken.
- 1 cup shredded cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend work well to give that gooey texture.
- 4 large tortillas: Flour tortillas provide a soft yet crispy exterior.
- 1 tablespoon oil: This is for frying the quesadillas, helping them achieve that golden crisp.
How to Make
Now that you have your ingredients, let’s dive into the cooking process!
- Heat the pan: Begin by preheating a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Adding oil will help achieve a nice crisp on the tortillas.
- Mix the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce, ensuring every piece is coated evenly. This step infuses the chicken with flavor.
- Assemble the quesadilla: Lay a tortilla flat on the counter, sprinkle half of it with cheese, then spoon half the chicken mixture over the cheese. Top with additional cheese, and fold the tortilla in half.
- Cook the quesadilla: Place the assembled quesadilla in the preheated skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- Repeat: Follow the same steps for the remaining ingredients, making another quesadilla or two.
- Slice and serve: Once all quesadillas are cooked, let them cool for a minute, then cut into wedges and serve hot!
Variations & Substitutions
Vegetarian BBQ Quesadillas: For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with black beans and corn. The beans add protein while the corn lends a sweet crunch. Mix these with BBQ sauce just like in the original recipe and it’s a fantastic option for a meat-free dinner.
Spicy BBQ Chicken Quesadillas: For those who enjoy some heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture. This variation delivers a satisfying kick that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
Cheesy Broccoli and Chicken Quesadillas: Add steamed broccoli florets to your filling for a dose of veggies. Mixing in small pieces of broccoli not only enhances the nutrition but adds a great texture contrast to the quesadilla.
Crispy Bacon Quesadillas: For a twist, mix in crumbled bacon with the chicken. The smoky flavor complements the BBQ sauce beautifully, creating a rich and fulfilling meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When crafting your quesadillas, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
Overfilling: One mistake many make is adding too much filling. This can lead to messy quesadillas that are difficult to flip. Stick to a moderate amount for the best results.
Not preheating the skillet: Failing to heat your skillet properly before starting can lead to soggy tortillas instead of crispy ones. Take the time to ensure the pan is hot enough.
Using the wrong cheese: Some cheeses melt better than others. Cheddar and Monterey Jack are ideal, while cheeses like feta may not create the melty texture you want.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
To ensure your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas remain fresh and delicious:
1. **Storing Refrigerated:** Keep cooked quesadillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can lose their crispness but will still taste great.
2. **Freezing:** If you want to make a batch ahead of time, freeze uncooked quesadillas by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and storing in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
3. **Reheating:** To reheat, place quesadillas in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or microwave for 30 seconds to a minute, though this may make them less crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds wonderful flavor to your quesadillas. Just be sure to shred it into bite-sized pieces before mixing with the BBQ sauce.
What type of tortilla works best?
Flour tortillas are typically used for their soft texture, but corn tortillas can also be used if you prefer a gluten-free option. Keep in mind that corn tortillas may be less pliable, so handle them gently.
What toppings go well with BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?
Many toppings complement these quesadillas beautifully. Sliced avocados, fresh cilantro, or a drizzle of sour cream can elevate the dish. For an extra kick, mix in some hot sauce or jalapeños.
Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the quesadillas ahead of time. Store them in the fridge and cook them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Are these quesadillas kid-friendly?
Yes, they are! The combination of cheese and BBQ chicken is usually a hit among children. Feel free to customize the fillings according to your kids’ preferences for an even more appealing meal.
Conclusion:
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are your go-to solution for an exciting summer dinner idea that doesn’t take hours to prepare. They are quick, customizable, and sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. By following this easy recipe, you’ll create a meal that not only satisfies your palate but also fits seamlessly into your busy schedule. Enjoy your cooking and relish each cheesy, gooey bite!
