Jump to Recipe Print RecipeSizzling on the stovetop, the aroma of these Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas filled my kitchen, instantly drawing family members in with the promise of a little sweet heat. Each bite reveals tender, shredded chicken enveloped in a tangy BBQ glaze, elevated by a drizzle of honey that turns the ordinary into extraordinary. This recipe not only embraces comfort food vibes but also promises effortless prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights and game days alike. You can personalize them with your favorite veggies or extra spices to match your cravings. So, are you ready to whip up a dish that combines gooey cheese and crispy tortillas in an unforgettable way? Why are these quesadillas a must-try? Simplicity: You only need basic skills to whip up these delicious Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas in under 30 minutes. Flavor Explosion: The blend of sweet honey and zesty BBQ sauce adds a unique twist that will tantalize your taste buds. Versatility: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or cheese, making each batch a personal creation! Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or informal gatherings; everyone will be reaching for seconds. Make Ahead: These quesadillas are easy to store; enjoy delicious leftovers—just reheat in a skillet for that freshly made taste! Elevate your weeknight meals with this delightful dish; check out more comfort food recipes that are just as simple and flavorful! Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Ingredients For the Filling • Cooked Chicken, shredded – This protein base offers heartiness; substitute with cooked turkey or a meat alternative for a different taste. • BBQ Sauce – Adds that tangy kick; use your favorite brand or homemade for a personal touch. • Honey – Sweetens the dish and balances the heat; can be swapped with agave syrup or maple syrup. • Hot Sauce – Infuses the necessary heat; adjust to tailor the spiciness to your preference. For the Cheesy Goodness • Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Provides that sharp flavor and superb melting properties; feel free to swap it with any flavorful cheese. • Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Ensures a glorious stretchy cheese pull; try provolone if you’re looking for a different taste. For the Crunch and Flavor • Flour Tortillas – Wraps everything together and crisps beautifully when cooked; corn tortillas are a great gluten-free option. • Olive Oil – Used for sautéing the veggies; butter or cooking spray can also do the job. • Sliced Red Onions – Adds a sweet and pungent flavor; green onions or shallots are good substitutes. • Chopped Bell Peppers – Gives crunch and sweetness; any color or variety can be used as a substitute. • Fresh Cilantro – Brightens the flavor profile; it can be omitted based on personal preference. For the Seasoning • Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing overall flavor; adjust to your taste. Optional Dips • Sour Cream and Guacamole – Creamy sides for dipping; Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative. Ready to dive into these enticing Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas? Let’s get cooking! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with BBQ sauce, honey, and hot sauce until the chicken is well-coated. You want to ensure every bite of your Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas has a beautiful blend of sweet and spicy flavors. Set the mixture aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the other ingredients. Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced red onions and chopped bell peppers, cooking for about 5 minutes until they become soft and slightly caramelized. Stir occasionally, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness. This step adds delicious depth to your quesadillas. Step 3: Assemble the Quesadilla Lay a flour tortilla flat on a clean surface, and sprinkle half of it with a mix of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Spoon a generous amount of the Hot Honey BBQ chicken mixture on top, followed by the sautéed onions and peppers, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro if desired. Fold the tortilla in half, ensuring the filling is well-contained for the next cooking step. Step 4: Cook the Quesadilla In the same skillet or on a preheated griddle, place the folded quesadilla. Cook for about 3 minutes on each side over medium heat until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside has melted beautifully. You can gently press down with a spatula to ensure that everything melds together perfectly during cooking. Step 5: Rest and Slice Once your quesadilla is perfectly cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a minute. This brief resting time helps the melted cheese settle, preventing it from spilling out when you slice. Use a sharp knife to cut the quesadilla into wedges, revealing that gooey interior filled with the tasty Hot Honey BBQ chicken. Step 6: Repeat and Serve Continue the process with the remaining tortillas and filling, ensuring to add oil to the skillet as needed. Serve your Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas warm, accompanied by optional sides like sour cream and guacamole for extra creaminess. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and textures that make this dish a favorite! Expert Tips for Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Chicken Safety First: Ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe temperature, particularly if starting with raw meat—165°F is the magic number! Spice Control: Start with a small amount of hot sauce in the filling, especially if you’re unsure about the heat level; you can always add more later. Let It Rest: Allowing the quesadilla to rest for a minute after cooking helps keep the cheesy goodness inside, preventing messy spills when sliced. Non-Stick Essentials: Use a non-stick skillet or enough oil to keep those quesadillas from sticking; no one wants a torn quesadilla! Custom Creations: Don’t hesitate to personalize your Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas by adding in your favorite veggies or alternate cheeses for a fun flavor twist. Make Ahead Options These Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save valuable time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken mixture (shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, honey, and hot sauce) up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can sauté the red onions and bell peppers ahead of time, which also helps to deepen their flavors. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the quesadillas with the prepped ingredients, cook them in a skillet for about 3 minutes on each side until golden, and enjoy the same delicious taste without the hassle. These tips ensure your quesadillas remain just as tasty! Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Variations Feel free to explore these delightful variations that add a personal twist to your Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas! Vegetarian Delight: Omit the chicken and load up on sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a hearty veggie version. This twist still delivers that satisfying texture and flavor! Spicy Cheese Kick: Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese to dial up the heat. You’ll enjoy a delicious, melty surprise that perfectly complements the honey and BBQ blend. Crunchy Texture Boost: Add some fresh corn or black beans to the filling for added crunch and flavor. These additions lend a delightful visual pop while enhancing the overall taste experience! BBQ Sauce Swap: Experiment with different BBQ sauces like mustard-based or smoky variations to personalize the flavor profile of your quesadillas. Each sauce brings its own unique taste, making it an adventure in every bite! Flavorful Tortillas: Use flavored tortillas—spinach, sun-dried tomato, or even garlic herb—to elevate your quesadilla’s taste and appearance. It’s an easy way to impress at any gathering! Sweet Heat Glaze: Drizzle a little extra honey or even a spicy chili honey over the top before serving. This adds a luscious finishing touch that heightens the sweet and spicy balance beautifully. Fresh Herbs Mix: Instead of just cilantro, try adding fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors—it’s like a sunny garden for your taste buds! Zesty Avocado Spread: Instead of traditional sour cream, whip up a quick avocado lime crema. It adds creaminess and a zesty flavor that pairs perfectly with the quesadillas. Embrace creativity in the kitchen, and feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect quesadilla experience. For more delicious twists, check out my easy veggie recipes that can elevate your meals even further! What to Serve with Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Savoring these delightful quesadillas opens up a world of pairing possibilities to create a comforting family feast. Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch and tang of coleslaw balance the rich cheese and sweet heat, providing a refreshing contrast. A vibrant slaw made with cabbage and carrots adds color and freshness to your spread. Spicy Black Bean Soup: A warm bowl of soup that complements the flavors, offering a hearty and nutritious side. The savory, spiced beans merge well with your quesadilla’s sweetness for a satisfying meal. Guacamole with Tortilla Chips: A creamy dip that adds delicious flavor and a cool contrast, enhancing the spicy profile. Serve this alongside crispy tortilla chips for a fun appetizer that everyone will enjoy. Mexican Street Corn Salad: This dish brings a burst of brightness, featuring grilled corn mixed with tangy lime and spices. Its sweet and smoky flavors pair beautifully with the sweet and spicy quesadillas. Pineapple Salsa: Sweet and zesty salsa can bring a tropical twist to your plate. Its freshness enhances the heat, making each bite of quesadilla even more delightful. Cilantro Lime Rice: The herby and zesty profile of this rice dish adds a light, refreshing option that balances the richness of your quesadillas. Tiny bursts of flavor from lime zest and fresh cilantro will keep your palate happy. Limeade or Sweet Tea: A chilled beverage to complement the robust flavors of your meal. Sweet tea offers a comforting, familiar touch while limeade provides a tangy counterpoint to the sweetness in your quesadillas. How to Store and Freeze Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Fridge: Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Freezer: For longer storage, flash freeze the quesadillas on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best results, ensuring the cheese melts perfectly. Avoid the microwave as it can make the quesadilla soggy. Make-Ahead: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days, making assembly quick and easy when you’re ready to cook! Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Recipe FAQs What type of chicken should I use for the quesadillas? Absolutely! You can use cooked, shredded chicken for ease, but you can also opt for rotisserie chicken or cooked turkey if you’re looking for alternatives. If you’re preparing your chicken from raw, ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F for proper cooking. How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re stacking them, I recommend placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking, ensuring that they stay just as delicious when you’re ready to enjoy them again. Can I freeze the quesadillas? Certainly! To freeze, first, flash freeze the quesadillas on a baking sheet for about 1-2 hours until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container where they can last up to 2 months. This way, you can have a delightful homemade meal ready whenever you’re craving that sweet and spicy flavor! What if my quesadillas are sticking to the skillet? Be sure to use enough oil to coat the skillet or, alternatively, employ a non-stick cooking spray. If issues persist, it might be helpful to cook the quesadillas at a slightly lower heat. Always give them a moment to naturally release from the pan before trying to flip. Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider? Yes! Ensure that the BBQ sauce you choose aligns with your dietary needs, as some brands may contain allergens like gluten or soy. For those allergic to dairy, you can swap the cheese for a vegan alternative that melts well, and use wraps made from gluten-free ingredients if needed. Can I personalize my quesadillas with different veggies? Very much so! Feel free to swap or include additional vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach—this will not only boost the flavor but also increase the nutritional value. The more the merrier, so let your taste preferences guide your additions! Savory Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas for a Cozy Feast Savor the delicious blend of sweet and spicy with these Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas, perfect for weeknight dinners. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsResting Time 1 minute minTotal Time 31 minutes mins Servings: 4 quesadillasCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Filling2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Substitute with cooked turkey or a meat alternative.1/2 cup BBQ sauce Use your favorite brand or homemade.2 tablespoons honey Can be swapped with agave syrup or maple syrup.1 tablespoon hot sauce Adjust to taste.For the Cheesy Goodness1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Feel free to swap with any flavorful cheese.1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Try provolone for a different taste.For the Crunch and Flavor4 pieces flour tortillas Corn tortillas are a great gluten-free option.2 tablespoons olive oil Butter or cooking spray can also be used.1 medium sliced red onion Green onions or shallots are good substitutes.1 cup chopped bell pepper Any color or variety can be used.1/4 cup fresh cilantro Can be omitted based on personal preference.For the Seasoningto taste saltto taste pepperOptional Dips1 cup sour cream1 cup guacamole Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative. Equipment Skilletmixed bowlKnifeSpatula Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a medium bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with BBQ sauce, honey, and hot sauce until well-coated. Set aside.Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced red onions and chopped bell peppers; cook for 5 minutes.Lay a flour tortilla flat; sprinkle half with a mix of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, add chicken mixture and sautéed vegetables, fold in half.Cook in a skillet for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Press down gently with a spatula.Remove from the skillet and let it rest for a minute, then slice into wedges.Repeat the process with remaining tortillas and serve warm with optional dips. Nutrition Serving: 1quesadillaCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesThese quesadillas are easy to store; enjoy delicious leftovers—just reheat in a skillet for that fresh taste. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
