There’s a certain magic that happens when sweet meets spicy, and these Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are the perfect embodiment of that harmony. Imagine biting into a warm, crispy tortilla filled with tender chicken smothered in a luscious honey-barbecue sauce, gooey cheese, and a colorful crunch of sautéed peppers and onions. This beginner-friendly recipe is not just a feast for the taste buds—it offers the ultimate convenience for busy weeknights, ready in just 35 minutes! Plus, it’s immensely adaptable, making it a true crowd-pleaser for game nights or casual dinners at home. What’s not to love about a dish that delivers comfort and flavor in every wedge? Ready to dive into a delightful cooking adventure?
Why Will You Adore These Quesadillas?
Ultimate Convenience: These BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are a quick meal, taking only 35 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The balance of sweet honey and smoky BBQ sauce creates an unforgettable taste experience that will delight your taste buds.
Customizable: Whether you want to add jalapeños for a spicy kick or swap the chicken for a vegetarian option, this recipe caters to every palate.
Crispy, Cheesy Goodness: Enjoy the delightful contrast of crispy tortillas and gooey cheese that oozes out with every bite.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for game nights or family dinners, everyone will be reaching for seconds with this satisfying dish. For more easy weeknight meals, check out these Smashburger Quesadillas Cheesy for added inspiration!
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Ingredients
• Let’s gather everything you need for these delicious BBQ Chicken Quesadillas!
For the Filling
- Shredded Chicken – Provides protein-packed heartiness; feel free to substitute with canned chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- BBQ Sauce – Adds rich, smoky flavor; opt for your favorite brand or try a homemade version for extra love.
- Honey – Imparts natural sweetness to balance the BBQ sauce; agave syrup or maple syrup can be great substitutes.
- Hot Sauce – Offers customizable heat; adjust according to your spice preference for a personal touch.
- Red Onions – Adds sweetness and a pop of color when sautéed; red or yellow onions work beautifully!
- Bell Peppers – Contributes freshness and crunch; use a mix of colors for a vibrant presentation!
- Cilantro – Offers herbal brightness; it’s optional but highly recommended for a flavor boost.
For the Cheesy Goodness
- Cheddar Cheese – Melts wonderfully, delivering savory, rich flavor; sharp cheddar adds an extra zing!
- Mozzarella Cheese – Adds that stretchy, gooey texture for that perfect cheese pull; consider mixing in pepper jack for a spicy twist!
For the Tortillas
- Flour Tortillas – The base that creates a crispy outer layer; whole wheat or corn tortillas work if you’re looking for an alternative.
- Olive Oil – Helps prevent sticking and achieve a golden-brown finish; any neutral oil can work in a pinch!
To Taste
- Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance flavor; don’t skip this step!
For Serving (Optional)
- Sour Cream – A cool, creamy addition for dipping; plain Greek yogurt is a healthy alternative.
- Guacamole – Adds creaminess and flavor; alternatively, try pico de gallo for a zesty kick!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Step 1: Prepare the BBQ Chicken Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce, honey, and hot sauce. Stir vigorously until the chicken is well-coated and each piece is glistening with that luscious mixture. Let this tasty blend sit for a moment, allowing the flavors to meld together while you move on to the next delicious step.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add in the sliced red onions and bell peppers, sautéing for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. Season them with salt and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness and bring an inviting aroma to your kitchen.
Step 3: Assemble the Quesadillas
Lay a flour tortilla flat on a clean surface and evenly sprinkle half of it with a generous mix of cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Next, add a layer of your BBQ chicken mixture, followed by the sautéed onions and peppers. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor, ensuring every bite will be packed with goodness.
Step 4: Fold the Tortilla
Carefully fold the tortilla in half, gently pressing down to enclose the filling. This will help keep all the delicious ingredients intact while cooking. Ensure the edges are securely sealed to prevent any gooey cheese from leaking out during the next sizzling step of making your Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas!
Step 5: Cook the Quesadillas
In the same skillet over medium heat, add a little more olive oil if necessary and place your folded quesadilla in the pan. Cook for about 3 minutes on one side, checking for a golden-brown crust before flipping. After flipping, cook for another 3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly and the outside to crisp up beautifully.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once the quesadilla is golden brown and the cheese is irresistibly melted, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a minute on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice the quesadilla into wedges. This resting time is essential to keep the filling from spilling out when you cut into your scrumptious BBQ Chicken Quesadillas.
Step 7: Repeat for Remaining Quesadillas
Continue the assembly and cooking process with the remaining tortillas and fillings, ensuring a delicious batch of Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas. Remember to adjust the heat as necessary to avoid burning any of your masterpieces while keeping them crisp and golden.
Step 8: Serve with Dipping Sauces
Finally, arrange your cheesy, crisp quesadilla wedges on a serving platter. If desired, serve them warm with tangy sour cream and creamy guacamole on the side for dipping. These added touches will elevate the flavor profile, turning every bite into a delightful treat for your family and friends.
Make Ahead Options
These Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are perfect for meal prep, allowing busy cooks to save precious time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the BBQ chicken mixture (shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, honey, and hot sauce) up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, sauté the red onions and bell peppers 2-3 days ahead of time, refrigerating them until you’re ready to assemble. When you’re ready to serve, just layer the filling onto tortillas with cheese, cook them in a skillet for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown, and enjoy beautiful, crispy quesadillas just as delicious as if made fresh!
Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
- Shred with Care: Make sure the chicken is shredded evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor. Larger chunks may not distribute the BBQ sauce evenly.
- Heat It Right: Preheat your skillet adequately before adding the quesadilla. A properly heated pan prevents sogginess and ensures a beautifully golden crust.
- Cheese Combination: Use a blend of cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella for the best melting effect. Avoid using low-fat cheese, as it may not melt well.
- Rest Before Slicing: Let the cooked quesadilla rest for a minute before slicing. This helps maintain its structure and prevents the filling from spilling out.
- Adjust the Heat: Feel free to tweak the hot sauce amount based on your spice preference. Start with less if you’re unsure about the heat level in your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas.
Storage Tips for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
- Room Temperature: Enjoy your quesadillas fresh for the best flavor; if left out, consume them within 2 hours to ensure food safety.
- Fridge: Store leftover BBQ Chicken Quesadillas in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their taste and texture.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the quesadillas in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat for optimal crunch and melting cheese, or microwave them briefly if you’re short on time.
What to Serve with Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
The perfect meal deserves equally delightful pairings to elevate your dining experience.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, crunchy complement; the acidity balances the sweetness of the quesadillas while adding texture.
- Spicy Black Bean Soup: The heartiness of this soup pairs beautifully with the crispy quesadillas, creating a comforting contrast in flavors.
- Fresh Guacamole: Creamy and rich, this dip enhances the sweet and spicy notes, adding a smooth texture that pairs perfectly together.
- Corn Salsa: Bursting with sweetness and tang, this vibrant salsa accentuates the flavors of your quesadillas while adding a refreshing crunch.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy, fragrant rice with a zesty twist provides a perfect base that complements the rich flavors of the BBQ chicken.
- Margaritas: This refreshing drink with just the right kick pairs flawlessly with the sweet and spicy notes of the quesadillas, enhancing the whole meal experience.
- Cheesy Nachos: Offer a playful shareable option that complements the quesadillas, providing extra crunch and cheesy goodness for your guests.
- Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing option, this balances the rich flavors with natural sweetness and a burst of freshness.
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas: Customization Ideas
Feel free to put your own spin on these delicious BBQ Chicken Quesadillas with some fun twists and substitutions!
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Vegetarian Delight: Substitute shredded chicken with roasted vegetables or a generous scoop of black beans and corn for a hearty, plant-based option. It not only adds vibrant colors but also an array of flavors.
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Spicy Kick: Add some sliced jalapeños or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the filling for an extra heat boost. This fiery addition will excite those who love a little zing in their meal!
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Cheese Variations: Experiment with cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy twist or Gouda for a robust flavor. Switching up the cheese can completely change the profile of your quesadilla while keeping it ooey-gooey.
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Extra Crunch: Toss in some thinly sliced radishes or shredded cabbage for a crunchy texture contrast. This not only enhances texture but also adds a fresh, crisp element to the dish.
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Sweet & Savory: Incorporate some pineapple chunks or mango salsa into the filling for an unexpected sweet contrast that complements the BBQ sauce perfectly. The sweet burst will create a refreshing balance!
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Herb Boost: Swap cilantro for fresh basil or parsley to give a completely different aromatic flair. Think about those Italian-inspired quesadillas with a barbecue twist for a fun fusion!
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Sauce Swap: Try using different BBQ sauces, such as honey mustard or an apple cider-infused sauce, to elevate your flavor game. The choice of sauce can dramatically alter the taste and mood of the dish.
Be inspired to customize your quesadillas and explore different flavor avenues! If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t miss out on trying Cowboy Butter Chicken or Dollys Chicken and Stuffing for more delicious ideas!
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for the quesadillas?
Absolutely! Using shredded chicken is ideal for this recipe, as it provides a hearty base. You can use cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience, or if you’re starting with raw chicken, make sure to cook it thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F before shredding. This helps you achieve a tender and juicy filling that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
What are the best storage methods for leftover quesadillas?
Very good question! Store leftover BBQ Chicken Quesadillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you prefer, place parchment paper between layers to keep them from sticking together. For longer shelf life, you can freeze these quesadillas; just make sure they’re cooled first. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze these quesadillas? If so, how?
Definitely! Freezing your BBQ Chicken Quesadillas is a great way to enjoy them later. After cooking and allowing them to cool, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
What should I do if my quesadillas are soggy?
Oh no! Soggy quesadillas can happen if the ingredients are too wet. To prevent this, make sure to drain any excess moisture from sautéed vegetables and always use shredded chicken that isn’t too watery. Additionally, cooking the quesadillas on medium heat allows them to crisp up nicely on the outside. If you’ve already made them soggy, you can try reheating in a skillet over medium heat for a few extra minutes to regain some crunch.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe, like allergies?
Great question! This recipe contains common allergens like dairy (cheddar and mozzarella cheese) and gluten (flour tortillas). For a dairy-free version, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives or skip the cheese altogether. If gluten is a concern, corn or gluten-free tortillas can be substituted without sacrificing flavor. Always check ingredients if you’re cooking for someone with allergies.
Can I use a different type of sauce instead of BBQ?
Absolutely! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different sauces. For a southwestern twist, try using a chipotle sauce or taco sauce. A honey mustard blend can also work beautifully for a sweet and tangy flavor. Just keep in mind that the taste profile will change a bit, but that’s the joy of cooking—finding new combinations that delight your taste buds!
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas: Sweet & Spicy Comfort in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce, honey, and hot sauce. Stir until well-coated.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced red onions and bell peppers, sauté for about 5 minutes.
- Lay a flour tortilla flat, sprinkle half with cheese, layer with BBQ chicken mixture, sautéed onions and peppers, and cilantro.
- Carefully fold the tortilla in half, pressing down to enclose the filling.
- In the same skillet, add olive oil if necessary and cook folded quesadilla for about 3 minutes on each side.
- Once golden brown, remove from skillet, let rest for a minute, and slice into wedges.
- Continue assembly and cooking with remaining tortillas and fillings.
- Arrange quesadilla wedges on a platter, serve warm with sour cream and guacamole if desired.
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