Loaded BBQ Chicken Quesadilla with Fresh Veggies

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When it comes to quick, satisfying meals that burst with flavor, nothing beats a Loaded BBQ Chicken Quesadilla with Fresh Veggies. This dish combines the smoky sweetness of BBQ chicken with melty cheese and crunchy vegetables, all folded into a golden tortilla. It’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights, game-day snacks, or whenever you crave comfort food with a twist.

Let’s walk through everything you need to know to create this crowd-pleasing quesadilla that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy and Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners.
  • Packed with Flavor: The tangy BBQ sauce, melted cheddar, and fresh veggies create a delicious balance of textures and tastes.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, cheese, or even switch up the protein for endless possibilities.
  • Kid-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love the cheesy, flavorful goodness.

Ingredients for Loaded BBQ Chicken Quesadilla with Fresh Veggies

IngredientQuantity
Chicken (shredded)2 cups
BBQ sauce1½ cups
Tortillas (8-inch)6
Cheddar cheese2 cups (shredded)
Bell peppers (optional)1 cup (diced)
Red onion (optional)½ cup (sliced)
Fresh cilantro¼ cup (chopped)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture

  1. In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
  2. Set the mixture aside while you prepare the tortillas and other ingredients.

2. Heat the Tortillas

  1. Place a clean skillet over low-medium heat.
  2. Warm one side of a tortilla for about 20-30 seconds to make it pliable.

3. Assemble the Quesadilla

  1. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over half of the tortilla.
  2. Add a generous layer of the BBQ chicken mixture on top of the cheese.
  3. Sprinkle more cheese over the chicken and add optional veggies like bell peppers or onions for extra crunch.

4. Fold and Cook

  1. Fold the tortilla in half, pressing gently to seal the edges.
  2. Flip the quesadilla and cook the other side until golden brown and cheese begins to melt, about 2-3 minutes per side.

5. Repeat and Serve

  1. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and chicken mixture.
  2. Slice each quesadilla into wedges and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Dips and Sides

Pair your Loaded BBQ Chicken Quesadilla with Fresh Veggies with these flavorful sides:

  • Guacamole: A creamy, fresh complement to the smoky BBQ flavors.
  • Sour Cream: Adds a tangy touch to balance the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
  • Pico de Gallo: A fresh, zesty salsa to brighten each bite.
  • Salad: A simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette rounds out the meal.

Tips for Perfect Quesadillas

  • Choose the Right Tortillas: Flour tortillas work best because they’re pliable and crisp up nicely.
  • Don’t Overstuff: Overfilling can make flipping the quesadilla tricky. Stick to a moderate amount of filling.
  • Use Low Heat: Cooking on low-medium heat ensures the cheese melts without burning the tortilla.
  • Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can affect melting.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per quesadilla:

NutrientAmount per Serving
Calories420
Protein30g
Total Fat18g
Carbohydrates36g
Fiber3g

FAQs About BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

1. Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the quesadillas and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Cook them fresh when you’re ready to eat.

2. Can I use store-bought BBQ chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken or pre-made BBQ chicken are excellent time-savers.

3. How do I keep quesadillas warm for serving?

Place cooked quesadillas on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven to keep them warm while you finish cooking the batch.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Wrap individual quesadillas in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in a skillet or oven for best results.

5. What other cheeses work well in this recipe?

Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella for a delicious twist.

6. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken with black beans, roasted sweet potatoes, or grilled veggies for a hearty vegetarian version.

Creative Variations

1. Spicy BBQ Quesadilla

  • Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat.

2. Hawaiian Style

  • Include diced pineapple for a sweet and tangy flavor.

3. Ranch BBQ Twist

  • Mix some ranch dressing into the BBQ sauce for a creamy touch.

4. Breakfast Quesadilla

  • Swap chicken for scrambled eggs and add bacon for a morning treat.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

A quesadilla is more than just a tortilla and cheese. This Loaded BBQ Chicken Quesadilla with Fresh Veggies brings bold flavors and textures that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether it’s the gooey cheddar, smoky BBQ sauce, or the fresh crunch of veggies, every bite is a celebration of flavor.

Conclusion: Your Next Family Favorite

This recipe for Loaded BBQ Chicken Quesadilla with Fresh Veggies is easy to make, endlessly customizable, and sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. From busy weeknights to casual weekend lunches, it’s a dish that fits any occasion.

Gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready to enjoy one of the most satisfying meals you’ve ever made. Happy cooking!

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Loaded BBQ Chicken Quesadilla with Fresh Veggies


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  • Author: Clara
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 quesadillas

Description

This Loaded BBQ Chicken Quesadilla with Fresh Veggies is a quick and flavorful dish, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Smoky BBQ chicken, gooey cheese, and fresh veggies are layered inside golden tortillas for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.


Ingredients

Quesadilla Filling

  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1½ cups BBQ sauce
  • 6 (8-inch) flour tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
  • ½ cup sliced red onion (optional)
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

 Prepare the Chicken Mixture:

  • In a medium bowl, mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until evenly coated. Set aside.

2. Heat the Tortillas:

  • Warm a clean skillet over medium heat.
  • Place a tortilla in the skillet and heat for about 30 seconds on one side to make it pliable.

3. Assemble the Quesadilla:

  • Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese over one half of the tortilla.
  • Add a layer of the BBQ chicken mixture, followed by optional veggies like diced bell peppers and sliced red onion.
  • Sprinkle more cheese on top of the chicken mixture for extra gooeyness.

4. Cook the Quesadilla:

  • Fold the tortilla in half, pressing gently to seal the edges.
  • Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

5. Slice and Serve:

  • Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it cool for a minute.
  • Slice into wedges and garnish with fresh cilantro.
  • Serve immediately with your favorite dips and sides.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course, Snack
  • Method: Pan-Fried
  • Cuisine: ex-Mex

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