Name: BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (or 2 small chicken breasts, cooked and shredded); ½ cup storebought or homemade BBQ sauce; ¼ cup frozen corn, thawed; ¼ cup cooked black beans; ¼ cup diced red bell pepper; ¼ cup diced onion; 1 cup grated cheddar cheese; 4 10-inch flour tortillas (or gluten-free tortillas, if needed); 2 teaspoons cooking oil (about ½ teaspoon per tortilla plus extra for pan)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 26 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with flavor, comforting textures, and just the right amount of zest, you’ve got to try this BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Recipe. It’s everything I love about quesadillas but kicked up a notch with smoky BBQ chicken, oozing melted cheese, and vibrant veggies like corn, black beans, and diced red peppers. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party snack, this recipe delivers on all fronts without any fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a clear glass bowl in the center filled with shredded white chicken topped with a thick, dark brown sauce. Surrounding the bowl are small white plates or dishes holding different colorful ingredients: one with black beans, sweet yellow corn, and bright orange diced carrots arranged separately; one with shredded white cheese; and one with small diced red tomatoes. Behind the main bowl is a halved avocado with a seed. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a vital role in building that perfect harmony of taste and texture. From the tender shredded chicken soaking up barbecue sauce to the colorful mix of vegetables, every element adds something special to your quesadilla experience.

2 cups cooked shredded chicken: The heart of the dish, providing protein and soaking up the BBQ sauce beautifully.
½ cup BBQ sauce: Adds that sweet, smoky, tangy punch that makes this quesadilla unforgettable.
1 cup grated cheddar cheese: Gives rich creaminess and the gooey melt we all crave in quesadillas.
¼ cup frozen corn (thawed): Offers a subtle sweetness and a little pop with each bite.
¼ cup cooked black beans: Brings earthiness and a boost in texture that complements the chicken perfectly.
¼ cup diced red pepper: Lends freshness and a splash of vibrant color.
¼ cup diced onion: Adds a mild bite and savory depth to balance the flavors.
2 teaspoons cooking oil: Essential for that golden, crispy exterior when grilling the tortillas.
4 10-inch flour tortillas: The perfect canvas to hold this delicious filling, soft yet sturdy enough to crisp up nicely.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling

Start by mixing your cooked shredded chicken with half a cup of BBQ sauce. This step ensures every bite is moist and full of that smoky, tangy flavor that makes this BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Recipe so irresistible. If you have leftover chicken breasts, you can shred them up quickly for a fast prep.

Step 2: Get Your Veggies and Cheese Ready

While the chicken marinates, grate your cheddar cheese and have your corn, black beans, diced red pepper, and diced onion ready. Having everything prepped and within reach makes assembling the quesadillas a smooth, enjoyable process.

Step 3: Toast the Tortilla

Heat a nonstick pan over medium-low heat. Drizzle about half a teaspoon of oil on one side of a tortilla and spread it with your hands so the tortilla is evenly coated on both sides. Place it in the pan and toast for about 10 seconds before removing the pan from the heat and flipping the tortilla over. This brief toasting creates a slight crisp base that will hold up to the filling beautifully.

Step 4: Assemble the Quesadilla

Spread a quarter cup of grated cheddar cheese evenly over half of the tortilla. Next, layer on half a cup of the BBQ chicken followed by a tablespoon each of corn, black beans, and diced red pepper. Fold the empty side of the tortilla over the filling and gently press the edges to seal everything inside. This helps keep the filling intact while cooking.

Step 5: Cook Until Golden and Melty

Place the filled tortilla back onto the pan over medium heat. Let it cook for about 2 minutes, then carefully flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes. The goal here is to get a golden, crispy outside with the cheese melted to perfection on the inside. Once done, remove the quesadilla from the pan and cut it into four triangle slices, making it perfect for sharing or enjoying all on your own!

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Recipe

The image shows a white plate with four triangle-shaped quesadilla slices stacked slightly on each other, the top layer having a golden-brown toasted texture with some dark spots. Inside the quesadilla, layers of black beans, corn, and small pieces of orange and green vegetables are visible. On the side of the plate, there are three bright red cherry tomatoes, a scoop of creamy white sauce, and a serving of light green guacamole with small chunks. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Recipe even further, consider garnishing it with fresh cilantro leaves, a dollop of cool sour cream, or a sprinkle of chopped green onions. These toppings introduce a fresh brightness that pairs beautifully with the rich, smoky filling.

Side Dishes

Pair your quesadillas with a simple side salad for a light contrast or some zesty guacamole to keep those Tex-Mex vibes going strong. A bowl of salsa or pico de gallo also works wonders and adds a pop of flavor and color on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try cutting the quesadilla into bite-sized wedges and serving them on a wooden board with little dipping bowls of extra BBQ sauce and cheese dip. This makes it a fantastic party appetizer that’s both delicious and visually appealing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the cooked quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, making for an easy lunch or snack option.

Freezing

You can freeze these quesadillas for longer storage by wrapping each one individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months to enjoy later without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the quesadilla in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain that perfect texture—this little extra step makes all the difference!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar adds a wonderful sharpness and melt, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a Tex-Mex blend for different flavor profiles.

What if I don’t have cooked chicken?

No worries—just quickly sauté chicken breasts or thighs with a little seasoning, shred them, and combine with your BBQ sauce. It only takes a few extra minutes!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap out the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, extra beans, or even grilled veggies with a bit of BBQ sauce for that smoky flavor.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes! Just use gluten-free tortillas, which are widely available, and double-check your BBQ sauce is gluten-free too.

How spicy is this BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Recipe?

The spice level is generally mild, but you can easily add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture if you like things with a kick.

Final Thoughts

This BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Recipe quickly became one of my favorite go-to meals because it’s so simple, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s perfect for those busy nights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. I can’t wait for you to make it, savor every bite, and maybe even share it with friends and family. Happy cooking!