There’s nothing quite like a quesadilla loaded with rich, savory flavors and a touch of heat to make your taste buds dance! Our Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas perfectly balance sweetness and spice, delivering velvety cheese, zesty BBQ chicken, and fresh vegetables all in a crispy, golden tortilla. This dish is incredibly satisfying—ideal for lunch, dinner, or even game day snacks. Excited to start cooking? You’re about to discover a fun, straightforward, and delicious recipe that will become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
These quesadillas check all the boxes for a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy:
- Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip these up in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- Perfect for Beginners: If you’re just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward with clear, easy-to-follow instructions.
- Ideal for the Whole Family: Packed with flavor and customizable to individual tastes, these quesadillas are sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike.
- Economical: Using leftover chicken and simple ingredients, this meal is budget-friendly without sacrificing taste!
- Versatile: Easily modify this dish to suit your dietary preferences; it’s a canvas for creativity!
The Necessary Ingredients
To make these delicious quesadillas, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup sliced red onions
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sour cream and guacamole for serving (optional)
Notes and Substitutions on Ingredients:
- Cooked Chicken: This is the heart of the dish! You can use rotisserie chicken to save time or substitute with shredded beef or even beans for a vegetarian twist.
- BBQ Sauce: While store-bought BBQ sauce works perfectly, feel free to make your own for a personalized flavor. You might want to try different BBQ styles like Kansas City, Texas, or Carolina.
- Cheeses: Cheddar and mozzarella are delightful, but feel free to experiment with pepper jack for an extra kick, or even vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
How to Prepare the Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Step by Step
Prepare for a tasty adventure! Follow these steps to create mouthwatering Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas:
- Combine the Chicken Mixture: In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, honey, and hot sauce. Stir until the chicken is well-coated. Set this flavorful mixture aside.
Pro Tip: Taste your mixture before using it. Adjust the hot sauce to reach your desired spice level! - Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers, cooking for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and browned. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.
Pro Tip: Caramelizing the onions enhances their sweetness and flavor. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning! - Assemble the Quesadillas: Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle a generous layer of cheddar and mozzarella cheese over one half. Add a layer of the BBQ chicken mixture, followed by the sautéed onions and bell peppers. Finally, sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top.
Pro Tip: Don’t overload your quesadilla! A slimmer filling makes it easier to flip and yields a crispy shell. - Fold and Cook: Fold the tortilla in half over the filling. Heat another skillet or griddle to medium heat. Once hot, place the filled quesadilla on the skillet and cook for about 3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and the cheese has melted.
Pro Tip: Use a spatula to gently press down the quesadilla while cooking for an even melt and crispy exterior. - Cut and Serve: Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it cool slightly before cutting into wedges. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling. Serve warm with sour cream and guacamole if desired.
Pro Tip: Keep cooked quesadillas warm in a low oven while you finish the rest!
Serving Suggestions
Here are some creative ways to elevate your Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas experience:
Perfect Pairings:
- Beverages: Serve with cold beers, lemonade, or iced tea to complement the spicy BBQ flavors.
- Sides: Pair with a fresh garden salad, rice, or a side of chips and salsa for a complete meal.
Occasions:
- Weeknight Dinner: Quick enough for busy nights, yet delicious enough to impress!
- Game Day Snacks: These quesadillas are perfect finger foods for watching the big game.
Serving Tips:
- Arrange quesadilla wedges on a platter for easy sharing.
- Add a vibrant garnish of fresh cilantro on top for a pop of color!
Storage and Reheating Tips
To enjoy your Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas later, follow these storage and reheating methods:
Refrigerated:
- Storage Duration: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Type of Container: Use glass or BPA-free plastic containers to avoid sogginess.
Freezed:
- Packaging: Wrap cooled quesadillas tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to 2 months.
- Defrosting: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating:
- Best Method: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. This maintains the crispy texture. Alternatively, you can use an oven set to 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Guaranteed Success Tips
- Don’t Overfill: An overloaded quesadilla can make flipping and cooking a challenge. Aim for a manageable amount of filling.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies and high-quality cheese elevate the dish’s flavors significantly.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Taste as you go! Everyone’s heat preference varies, so feel free to adjust the hot sauce accordingly.
Recipe Variations
For a unique spin on these quesadillas, consider these variations:
- For a Spicy Version: Add 1 teaspoon of chipotle powder or diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture for an extra kick.
- For a Veggie Delight: Substitute the chicken with black beans or pinto beans and add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini for a plant-based option.
- For a Sweet Twist: Use a chipotle peach or raspberry BBQ sauce in place of regular BBQ to add a fruity flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I make these quesadillas in advance?
A: Yes! You can assemble the quesadillas and store them in the refrigerator for up to one day before cooking.
Q2: What can I serve with quesadillas?
A: Perfect companions include salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and a side salad for added freshness.
Q3: Can I use different types of tortillas?
A: Absolutely! Whole wheat, corn, or gluten-free tortillas are excellent alternatives. Just be mindful of cooking times as different types may vary.
Q4: My quesadillas are coming out soggy, any tips?
A: Ensure your cooked filling is not too wet. Pat dry vegetables after cooking if necessary and avoid overfilling.
Q5: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the assembled quesadillas on a parchment-lined tray for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Q6: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Skillet reheating works best to maintain crispiness. Microwaving is quicker but may make them soggy.
Q7: How can I make this dish healthier?
A: Opt for whole grain tortillas, reduce cheese quantity, and add more veggies to the filling.
Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick weeknight dinner or serving it during a get-together, these Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are sure to bring smiles to the table. Give this recipe a try—you’re in for a delicious treat!
Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Ingrédients
Method
- In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, honey, and hot sauce. Stir until the chicken is well-coated. Set aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers, cooking for about 5 minutes until soft and browned. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.
- Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle a layer of cheddar and mozzarella cheese over one half. Add the BBQ chicken mixture, sautéed onions, and bell peppers, followed by cilantro.
- Fold the tortilla in half. Heat another skillet over medium heat and cook the filled quesadilla for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cheese is melted.
- Remove from the skillet, let cool slightly, and cut into wedges. Repeat with remaining tortillas.