These BBQ Chicken Quesadillas combine tender chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, reduced-fat cheese, onions, and high-protein tortillas for a simple meal-prep option with plenty of flavor. They work well for lunch or dinner and can be reheated in a skillet or air fryer to bring back the crisp exterior.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded or chopped
- 4 high-protein tortillas
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, plus more to taste
- 1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheese
- 1/2 medium red or yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon olive oil or cooking spray
- Black pepper to taste
- Optional: cilantro, green onions, jalapeños, or smoked paprika
How to Make BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
1. Prepare the chicken
Cook the chicken thoroughly, then shred or chop it into bite-size pieces. Toss it with BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
2. Cook the onions
Heat a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of olive oil or cooking spray. Cook the sliced onions until softened and lightly browned.
3. Build the quesadillas
Place a tortilla in a clean skillet. Add a portion of cheese, BBQ chicken, onions, and another light layer of cheese to one half. Fold the tortilla over the filling.
4. Cook until crisp
Cook over medium to medium-low heat until the underside is golden and the cheese begins to melt. Carefully flip and cook the second side until crisp and heated through.
5. Rest and slice
Let each quesadilla rest briefly before cutting into wedges. This helps the filling stay together.
Estimated Nutrition
Per quesadilla: approximately 320 calories, 32g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. Nutrition is an estimate and will vary with the tortillas, BBQ sauce, cheese, chicken portions, and other ingredients used.
Meal Prep, Storage & Reheating
Allow the quesadillas to cool before placing them in airtight meal-prep containers. Refrigerate and use within about 3–4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving. A skillet or air fryer generally restores a crisper tortilla than a microwave.
Meal Prep Tips
- Choose a BBQ sauce that fits your preferred sweetness and sodium level.
- Do not overfill the tortillas; a moderate amount makes them easier to flip and store.
- Keep extra BBQ sauce separate until serving if you want the tortilla to stay firmer.
- Pair with vegetables, fruit, or another side that fits your meal plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes. Fully cooked leftover chicken works well. Reheat the finished quesadilla thoroughly before eating.
Can I make these ahead?
Yes. Cook, cool, portion, and refrigerate them in airtight containers. For the best texture, reheat in a skillet or air fryer.
What cheese works best?
Reduced-fat cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend can work. Choose a cheese that melts well and fits your nutrition preferences.
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