Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I was flipping through my favorite recipe book, the warmth of nostalgia washed over me while thinking about the countless cozy nights spent with family and friends. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas, a meal that captures the essence of comfort food and makes even the busiest weekdays feel special. This easy recipe blends tender, shredded chicken with the tangy sweetness of BBQ sauce and honey, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla and oozing with melty cheese. What I love most? Not only can you whip these up in just 35 minutes, but they also make for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for game nights or a casual dinner. Are you ready to indulge in a tantalizing twist on classic quesadillas? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together! Why Are These Quesadillas So Irresistible? Quick and Easy: These Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are perfect for busy weeknights, taking only 35 minutes from prep to plate. Flavor Explosion: Imagine biting into a crispy tortilla filled with tender chicken, melty cheese, and the delightful sweetness of honey mingling with tangy BBQ—perfection! Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a family dinner or game night with friends, these quesadillas are sure to impress and satisfy everyone’s cravings. Versatile: Customize with your favorite ingredients—try adding corn or swapping cheeses to make it your own. They’re a canvas for your culinary creativity! Comfort Food Elevated: This dish marries southern BBQ with Mexican flavors, creating a heartfelt meal that brings warmth and nostalgia to your kitchen. Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Ingredients For the Filling Cooked Chicken (2 cups) – Provides a tender, protein-packed base; use leftover poultry for convenience or cook until 165°F before shredding. BBQ Sauce (1 cup) – Adds rich, smoky flavor; choose your favorite brand or make your own for a personalized touch. Honey (2 tablespoons) – Imparts natural sweetness and gloss to the filling; substitute with agave syrup for a different twist. Hot Sauce (1 teaspoon, adjust to taste) – Introduces spice; adapt based on your heat preference. For the Cheese Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded) – Melts wonderfully, adding savory flavor to each bite. Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded) – Ensures gooey, melty goodness that enhances the overall texture. For the Tortillas Flour Tortillas (4 large) – Wraps the delicious filling and crisps nicely in the skillet. Olive Oil (1 tablespoon) – Prevents sticking and helps achieve that golden, toasty finish. For the Vegetables Red Onions (½ cup, sliced) – Adds sweetness and texture when sautéed until soft. Bell Peppers (½ cup, chopped) – Contributes freshness and color, making your quesadillas even more vibrant. Fresh Cilantro (¼ cup, chopped) – Enhances flavor and serves as a bright garnish for the dish. For Seasoning Salt and Pepper – Essential for boosting and balancing all flavors in the dish. For Serving (Optional) Sour Cream and Guacamole – Provide a creamy contrast to the sweet-spicy blend, making each bite even more enjoyable. Indulge in these Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas and transform ordinary weeknights into extraordinary culinary experiences! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling In a medium bowl, combine the cooked and shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce, honey, and hot sauce. Stir well until the chicken is evenly coated in the sweet and spicy mixture. Set this flavorful filling aside, letting the ingredients meld together for a few moments while you prepare the vegetables. Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced red onions and chopped bell peppers to the skillet, sautéing them for about 5 minutes. Cook until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, then season them with salt and pepper to taste. This step brings a burst of color and sweetness to your Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas. Step 3: Assemble the Quesadilla On a clean surface, take one flour tortilla and lay it flat. Sprinkle a generous layer of cheddar and mozzarella cheese over half of the tortilla. Spoon a portion of the chicken filling onto the cheese, followed by a layer of the sautéed onions and bell peppers. Top with some fresh cilantro for an added pop of flavor, then fold the tortilla in half to encase the delicious filling. Step 4: Cook the Quesadilla Preheat another skillet or griddle over medium heat. Carefully place the folded quesadilla in the hot pan, cooking for about 3 minutes on each side. Press gently while cooking to ensure everything heats evenly and the cheese melts into gooey perfection. Look for a golden brown color on both sides before removing the quesadilla from the heat. Step 5: Slice and Serve Allow the quesadilla to rest for a minute on a cutting board, making it easier to slice without spilling the filling. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut into wedges. Arrange the Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas on a platter, and serve them warm, with optional sides of sour cream and guacamole for dipping. Enjoy the delightful crunch and rich flavors in every bite! Step 6: Repeat with Remaining Ingredients Repeat the assembly and cooking process with the rest of the tortillas and filling. Ensure your skillet is adequately preheated for each batch, allowing you to create a consistent golden-brown quesadilla each time. Soon enough, you’ll have a mouthwatering spread that showcases the incredible appeal of these Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas! How to Store and Freeze Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Fridge: Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick meals. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap quesadillas tightly in parchment paper and then in foil, freezing for up to 2 months. This prevents freezer burn. Reheating: To restore crispness, reheat quesadillas in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side, or until warmed through. Enjoy that delightful crunch again! What to Serve with Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Setting the table for a delightful meal has never been easier with these finger-licking quesadillas as your star dish. Creamy Guacamole: The cool, creamy texture of guacamole balances the sweet and spicy notes of the quesadillas, creating a perfect dip. Zesty Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw adds a fresh crunch to each bite, enhancing the flavor experience and making it feel more substantial. Crunchy Potato Wedges: These golden-brown wedges provide a crispy texture contrast, making for a comforting side that compliments the soft quesadillas beautifully. Mexican Street Corn: Sweet, grilled corn with lime and cheese drizzles brings sunshine to your table, adding a vibrant flavor that pairs perfectly with the smokiness of BBQ. Salsa Verde: This bright, tangy salsa complements the sweet honey and BBQ flavors, while adding a zesty kick that truly elevates the dish. Fresh Cilantro Lime Rice: The aromatic rice infused with cilantro and lime brings a refreshing touch that enhances the flavors of the quesadillas marvelously. Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink with a hint of sweetness and tartness, providing a perfect, thirst-quenching contrast to the rich quesadilla flavors. Churros for Dessert: End your meal on a sweet note with these cinnamon-sugar-dusted churros, a fun treat that echoes the comforting flavors you’ve just enjoyed. With these delightful pairings, your dinner is set to be a memorable feast full of warmth and joy! Expert Tips for Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Crispy Tortillas: Ensure your skillet is hot enough to achieve that perfect crunch; preheat it thoroughly before adding quesadillas. Don’t Overcrowd: For the best results, cook one or two at a time. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy tortillas. Rest Before Slicing: Allow quesadillas to cool for a minute after cooking. This will help the cheese set and make slicing easier without losing the filling. Customize Your Heat: Adjust the amount of hot sauce to suit your taste; if you’re sensitive to spice, start with less and add more as desired. Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and quality BBQ sauce will significantly enhance the flavor of your Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas, making them truly memorable. Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Variations Customize your quesadilla adventure with exciting flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds! Spicy Pepper Jack: Swap cheddar cheese for pepper jack for an extra kick of spice. It’ll elevate the flavor profile and give you that welcomed heat. Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with black beans and a colorful mix of peppers and zucchini. This easily turns your quesadilla into a hearty, meatless option that everyone can enjoy. Sweet Pineapple Twist: Add diced pineapple to the filling for a delightful sweet and savory contrast. This makes each bite taste like a tropical vacation—delicious and refreshing! Smoky BBQ Twist: Use smoked BBQ sauce instead of regular BBQ sauce to infuse a deeper, more complex flavor into your quesadillas. It’s a wonderful choice for those who love rich, smoky tastes. Creamy Avocado Surprise: Fold slices of avocado inside for a delightful creaminess. This adds a luscious texture that complements the crispy exterior beautifully. Corny Goodness: Mix in sweet corn kernels to the filling for added sweetness and crunch. It’s a great way to sneak in a bit more veggie goodness while enhancing flavor. Heat Lovers: For those who crave heat, add diced jalapeños along with the sautéed vegetables. These little firecrackers will surely satisfy any spice lover’s dream. Herb-Infused: Consider sprinkling fresh basil or oregano into your chicken mixture. It brings a light, aromatic quality that beautifully complements the savory notes. For even more delicious recipes inspired by comfort food, check out our Chicken Tenders Honey or indulge in a warm bowl of Thai Chicken Soup. Whatever twist you choose for your Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas, you’re set for a cozy and delicious meal! Make Ahead Options These Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dish even on your busiest nights! You can prepare the chicken filling (shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, honey, and hot sauce) up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The sautéed onions and bell peppers can also be made ahead and kept in the fridge for about 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat up the filling and vegetables, assemble the quesadillas, and cook them in a hot skillet for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This way, you’ll have those comforting quesadillas ready to enjoy with minimal effort, just as delicious as when freshly made! Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Recipe FAQs How do I select the right chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! When choosing chicken for your Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas, opt for cooked, shredded chicken, which can be from a rotisserie chicken or leftovers from a previous meal. If you’re starting with raw chicken, ensure it’s cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Look for chicken that is fresh, with no dark spots or unpleasant smells. How should I store leftover quesadillas? To keep your Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, you’ll have delicious meals ready for a quick bite. Remember to allow them to cool completely before sealing them up to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess. Can I freeze my quesadillas for later? Yes, indeed! For longer storage, you can freeze your stuffed quesadillas. Wrap each one tightly in parchment paper, then in foil. You can keep them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side until warmed through and crispy again. What should I do if my quesadillas aren’t crisp enough? Very common! If your Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas turn out soggy, it’s likely due to overcrowding the skillet or not preheating it enough. To achieve that ideal crispiness, ensure your skillet is hot before adding quesadillas, and try to cook one at a time. A little gentle pressing while they cook helps in getting that golden-brown color. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Absolutely! If you’re serving these quesadillas to others, it’s worth noting that this dish contains gluten (from the tortillas) and dairy (from the cheese), which may not be suitable for everyone. For gluten-free options, look for gluten-free tortillas, and to make it dairy-free, you can substitute with dairy-free cheese. Always check ingredients for allergies, especially concerning the BBQ sauce and hot sauce. Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas for a Cozy Night In Enjoy comforting Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas, combining tender chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and melty cheese for a crowd-pleasing meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsResting Time 1 minute minTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 quesadillasCourse: ChickenCuisine: MexicanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Filling2 cups Cooked Chicken Use leftover poultry or cook until 165°F before shredding.1 cup BBQ Sauce Choose your favorite brand or make your own.2 tablespoons Honey Substitute with agave syrup for a different twist.1 teaspoon Hot Sauce Adjust to taste based on your heat preference.For the Cheese1 cup Cheddar Cheese Shredded, melts wonderfully.1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Shredded, ensures gooey goodness.For the Tortillas4 large Flour Tortillas Wraps the filling.1 tablespoon Olive Oil Prevents sticking and gives a toasty finish.For the Vegetables0.5 cup Red Onions Sliced, adds sweetness when sautéed.0.5 cup Bell Peppers Chopped, contributes freshness.0.25 cup Fresh Cilantro Chopped, enhances flavor.For SeasoningSaltPepperFor Serving (Optional)Sour Cream Optional for dipping.Guacamole Optional for dipping. Equipment SkilletMixing Bowlcutting boardSharp KnifePizza Cutter Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a medium bowl, combine the cooked and shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce, honey, and hot sauce. Stir well until the chicken is evenly coated. Set aside.Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced red onions and chopped bell peppers, sautéing for about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.On a clean surface, take one flour tortilla and lay it flat. Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese over half. Spoon chicken filling on top, followed by sautéed vegetables and fresh cilantro. Fold the tortilla in half.Preheat another skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the folded quesadilla for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown.Allow the quesadilla to rest for a minute, then slice into wedges. Serve warm, with optional sour cream and guacamole.Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling, preheating the skillet for each batch. Nutrition Serving: 1quesadillaCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 8mg NotesUsing fresh vegetables and quality BBQ sauce will enhance the flavors. Customize with additional ingredients like corn or different cheeses. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
