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A close-up shows delicious and cheesy Smoky BBQ Chicken Quesadillas, the featured image for this recipe.

Smoky BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

These quesadillas transform a simple dish into a flavor-packed experience by infusing smoky barbecue flavor into tender chicken, combined with melted cheese and crisp vegetables, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. The key lies in layering flavors and textures for a satisfying meal or snack.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 bell pepper any color
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack
  • 8 large flour tortillas
  • Optional toppings: sour cream
  • Optional toppings: guacamole
  • Optional toppings: cilantro

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Large skillet or grill pan
  • spatula
  • cutting board
  • knife
  • Griddle or second skillet

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces. In a bowl, toss with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
  3. Add BBQ Sauce: Reduce heat to low and stir in the BBQ sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken.
  4. Assemble the Quesadillas: Spread a thin layer of cheese on one half of each tortilla. Top with a portion of the BBQ chicken, red onion, bell pepper, and remaining cheese.
  5. Cook the Quesadillas: Fold the tortillas in half. Heat a lightly oiled skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook each quesadilla for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
  6. Serve: Cut each quesadilla into wedges and serve immediately with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and cilantro.

Notes

For extra smoky flavor, consider using chipotle powder in addition to smoked paprika. Don't overload the quesadillas to ensure even cooking and prevent sogginess. Experiment with different cheeses, vegetables, and BBQ sauces to create your own unique flavor combinations. Leftover cooked chicken can be used to speed up the process.