Do Share Recipe

I still remember the first time I made this BBQ Chicken Quesadilla Recipe—I barely had the pan off the stove before slicing into it. The smoky aroma from the BBQ sauce mixed with melted cheese instantly filled my kitchen. I’ve made plenty of quesadillas before, but this one quickly earned a permanent spot in my weekly meal rotation.

It’s quick, satisfying, and feels indulgent without being heavy. Every bite reminds me why simple recipes are often the best. If you enjoy creamy dishes, you might also like this Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas Casserole Recipe for a comforting twist.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need for this BBQ Chicken Quesadilla, along with tips to get the best results:

3 oz boneless skinless chicken breast cutlet — fresh chicken works best for juicy texture and even cooking. You can also try this Easy Smothered Chicken Recipe for a flavorful alternative.
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder — adds savory depth without overpowering the BBQ flavor.
1/8 teaspoon onion powder — complements the chicken and enhances overall taste.
1 tablespoon BBQ sauce — choose a smoky, slightly sweet sauce with lower sugar for balance.
1 large whole-wheat or high-fiber flour tortilla — crisps nicely and holds the filling well.
1/4 cup shredded reduced-fat Mexican-blend cheese — freshly grated cheese melts smoother and tastes better.
2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion — adds crunch and mild sweetness.
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped — brightens up the rich flavors.
Nonstick cooking spray — prevents sticking without adding extra oil.

Note: several serving as a note of full line — the ingredient quantities above make 1 generous serving.

Variations

You can easily customize this BBQ Chicken Quesadilla to match your preferences:

Use gluten-free tortillas if needed; smaller ones may require doubling.
Swap the cheese with pepper jack, smoked mozzarella, or dairy-free alternatives.
Add sliced avocado or guacamole after cooking for extra creaminess.
Stir in jalapeños, chipotle sauce, or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Replace chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken to save time.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Equipment You Need

Skillet or nonstick pan — cooks the chicken and crisps the quesadilla evenly.
Spatula — helps flip and fold without tearing the tortilla.
Knife and cutting board — for slicing chicken and chopping toppings.
Measuring spoons — keeps seasoning balanced and consistent.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Quesadilla

This recipe comes together quickly with just a few simple steps.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and spray lightly with nonstick spray. Season the chicken with garlic and onion powder and cook for about 4 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let it rest briefly, then chop into small pieces and toss with BBQ sauce.

Assemble the Quesadilla

Place the tortilla flat and spread the BBQ chicken over one half. Sprinkle cheese evenly, then add red onion and cilantro. This layering helps everything melt together evenly while keeping flavors balanced.

Cook and Serve

Heat the skillet again over medium-high heat and spray lightly. Place the tortilla in the pan, fold it over, and press gently with a spatula. Cook until golden and crispy on both sides, flipping once. Slice into wedges and serve warm.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

After making this recipe several times, here’s what worked best for me:

I always grate the cheese fresh — it melts smoother and tastes richer.
I let the chicken cool slightly before adding BBQ sauce to prevent sogginess.
I prefer lightly toasting the tortilla first for extra crispiness.
A smoky BBQ sauce gives deeper flavor than overly sweet ones.
Sometimes I add a pinch of smoked paprika to the chicken for extra depth.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Quesadilla

Serve the quesadilla hot, sliced into triangles for easy eating. Pair it with a simple green salad, salsa, guacamole, or a spoon of sour cream on the side. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a bright, restaurant-style finish.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutrition breakdown per serving:

Calories: ~325 kcal
Protein: ~32 g
Carbohydrates: ~32 g
Fat: ~10 g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing

Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Assemble the quesadilla without cooking, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 1 month. Cook directly from frozen for best results.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven to maintain crispness. Microwaving works but softens the tortilla.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This BBQ Chicken Quesadilla is one of those recipes that checks all the boxes:

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
Protein-Packed: Keeps you full and satisfied.
Customizable: Easy to adapt for different diets and flavor preferences.
Great for Any Meal: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or casual entertaining.
Big Flavor, Simple Ingredients: Smoky, cheesy, and comforting without being heavy.

Ben Carraoli