Name: Irresistible Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas You'll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Cooked Shredded Chicken (Ensure cooked to 165°F before shredding); 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce (Rich, smoky flavor); 1/4 cup Honey (Can substitute with agave syrup or maple syrup); 1-2 tablespoons Hot Sauce (Adjust to personal spice preference); 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Adds savory character); 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (For delightful cheese pulls); 4 large Flour Tortillas (Crisp beautifully when toasted); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Prevents sticking); 1 cup Sliced Red Onions (Adds texture and sweetness); 1 cup Chopped Bell Peppers (Adds freshness and crunch); 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Cilantro (For herbal brightness); to taste Salt (Enhances flavor); to taste Pepper (Enhances flavor)

“Did you hear the sizzle coming from my kitchen? It’s the sound of transformation, blending sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors into something extraordinary. These Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are not just easy to make; they’re a delightful way to use up cooked chicken while impressing family and friends alike. Like a cozy hug wrapped in a tortilla, this recipe packs tender chicken, gooey cheese, and a vibrant mix of veggies—all harmonized by a kick of heat. Perfect for casual dinners, game nights, or any occasion that calls for comfort food, these quesadillas can be ready in just 35 minutes! Ready to stir things up in your kitchen and create a dish that feels as good as it tastes? Let’s dive into cooking these sweet and spicy beauties!”

Why You’ll Crave These Quesadillas?

Flavor Explosion: The balance of sweet honey and spicy hot sauce creates a truly unique taste that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Quick & Easy: With just 35 minutes of prep and cook time, these quesadillas are the perfect weeknight meal.
Versatile Filling: Whether you’re using leftover chicken or customizing with extra veggies, the filling options are endless, making it great for clearing out the fridge!
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for game nights or casual dinners, everyone loves a good quesadilla! Pair them with Chicken Enchiladas Home for a spread that delights.
Crispy Goodness: Achieving that golden-brown crunch on the outside while keeping the inside gooey is a visual and textural joy.
Make Ahead: Enjoy them later! Just store in an airtight container, and you’ll have a quick meal ready any time, similar to these Smashburger Quesadillas Savory.

Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Ingredients

For the Filling
• Cooked Shredded Chicken – Provides a tender, protein-packed base; use raw chicken and ensure it’s cooked to 165°F before shredding for Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas.
• BBQ Sauce – Adds a rich, smoky flavor that forms the tangy backbone of the dish.
• Honey – Imparts natural sweetness and a glossy finish; can substitute with agave syrup, maple syrup, or brown sugar.
• Hot Sauce – Provides necessary heat; adjust to your personal spice preference.

For the Cheese
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts into gooey ribbons, adding a savory character to the quesadilla.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Ensures delightful cheese pulls and a stretchy texture that everyone loves.

For the Tortilla
• Large Flour Tortillas – Cradle the filling and crisp up beautifully when toasted for the ultimate quesadilla experience.
• Olive Oil – Prevents sticking and aids in achieving a golden-brown finish on the exterior.

For the Veggies
• Sliced Red Onions – Adds texture and a touch of natural sweetness to the filling.
• Chopped Bell Peppers – Contributes a splash of freshness and crunch to balance the richness.
• Chopped Fresh Cilantro – Adds herbal brightness, elevating the dish to new flavor heights.
• Salt and Pepper – Enhances the overall flavor profile of your quesadillas.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine your cooked shredded chicken with BBQ sauce, honey, and hot sauce. Mix thoroughly until the chicken is fully coated, letting the flavors meld together—this should take about 2 minutes. Set aside while you prepare the vegetables, so the sweet-spicy fill for your Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas is ready when you are.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat a skillet over medium heat and drizzle in some olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the sliced red onions and chopped bell peppers. Sauté them for about 5 minutes or until softened, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper as they cook, enhancing the veggies’ flavors. Remove the mixture from heat and set aside, allowing the veggies to cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Quesadilla
Take a large flour tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface. On one half of the tortilla, sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Next, spoon on the BBQ chicken mixture, followed by the sautéed onions and bell peppers. Top with a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro for an aromatic touch before folding the tortilla in half, encasing the delicious filling inside.

Step 4: Cook the Quesadilla
Preheat another skillet or griddle on medium heat, adding a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking. Carefully place the folded quesadilla in the hot skillet and cook for about 3 minutes on one side. Press down gently with a spatula, ensuring even cooking, until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese has melted.

Step 5: Flip and Finish
Once the first side is golden, flip the quesadilla over and cook for an additional 3 minutes. Again, gently press down with the spatula, allowing the other side to crisp up beautifully. Look for a toasty appearance and some oozing cheese to signal it’s perfectly cooked.

Step 6: Slice and Serve
Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it cool for a minute on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice it into wedges, making for easy serving. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining tortillas and filling, ensuring a delightful batch of Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas for everyone to enjoy.

Step 7: Enjoy with Dips
Serve your warm quesadillas alongside small bowls of sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite extra hot sauce for customization. The crispy exterior and gooey inside, bursting with sweet and spicy flavors, will surely impress your family and friends at any gathering!

Expert Tips for Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

Crispy Tortillas: Ensure tortillas are heated enough to achieve a crisp exterior. Overcooking can lead to burnt edges, so keep an eye on them.
Cheese Melting Alert: Use a mix of cheeses for optimal meltability; combining cheddar and mozzarella ensures a gooey texture in your Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas.
Layer Wisely: Spread the filling evenly across the tortilla; if overloaded, it may overflow while cooking, creating a mess.
Rest Before Slicing: Allow quesadillas to cool for a minute before cutting to maintain the filling and prevent cheese spills.
Customize Your Spice: Adjust the hot sauce according to your taste. Start with less and add more to suit your spice preference—everyone enjoys a dish their way!

Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these quesadillas to suit your tastes and dietary needs!

Vegetarian: Substitute shredded chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or a mix of beans for a hearty, plant-based version. Your family won’t even miss the meat!
Spicy Kick: Swap in pepper jack cheese for a zesty twist that packs more heat. You can even sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes for added spice.
Different Sauces: Experiment with different BBQ sauces like smoky hickory or tangy Carolina-style to change up the flavor profile. It’s a fun way to explore new tastes!
Wrap It Up: Use whole grain or spinach tortillas for a healthy spin. Not only do they look beautiful, but they also offer a nutritional boost.
Sweet Twist: Try adding a slice of pineapple for a tropical vibe that pairs wonderfully with the sweet and spicy ingredients. It’s like a vacation on your plate!
Crunch Factor: Add some crushed tortilla chips or slaw mix inside for an extra crunch in every bite. It’s a delightful surprise that enhances the texture.
More Veggies: You can toss in additional veggies like corn or black beans for added nutrition and flavor diversity. It makes each bite even more delightful!

If you love these variations, check out my Honey Lime Chicken or Peruvian Chicken Rice recipes for more versatile meal ideas!

How to Store and Freeze Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

Airtight Container: Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and flavorful.

Reheating Skillet: For the best results, reheat quesadillas in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy, which typically takes about 5 minutes.

Freezing Tips: Freeze assembled quesadillas wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture.

Batch Cooking: Consider making a double batch of Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas for quick meals; simply reheat as needed for easy weeknight dinners!

Make Ahead Options

These Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor their deliciousness any night of the week! You can prepare the BBQ chicken mixture and sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, ensure everything is cooled to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent moisture buildup. When you’re ready to cook, simply assemble the quesadillas by layering the cheeses and fillings on tortillas, then cook them as directed. This simple approach allows you to cut down on prep time, serving up these sweet and spicy beauties with ease!

What to Serve with Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

Elevate your meal experience with a selection of delightful sides that perfectly complement your sweet and spicy quesadillas.

Creamy Guacamole: This smooth and buttery dip adds a cooling contrast, enhancing the heat and sweetness of the quesadillas.
Crispy Potato Wedges: The crunch and heartiness of these potatoes create a satisfying texture that pairs wonderfully with the gooey cheese and chicken.
Fresh Corn Salad: Bursting with sweet corn, vibrant tomatoes, and a zesty lime dressing, this salad brings brightness and freshness to your plate.
Chilled Salsa Verde: A tangy, herby sauce that cuts through the richness of the quesadillas, offering a fresh burst of flavor in every bite.
Mixed Green Salad: Light and refreshing, a simple salad with vinaigrette adds a nice balance to the richness, keeping the meal well-rounded.
Margarita: A classic cocktail that complements the flavor profile of the quesadillas, with its acidity balancing the sweetness and heat perfectly.

Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
I recommend using cooked shredded chicken for the best texture and flavor. If you have raw chicken, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before shredding for your Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas.

How long can I store my leftover quesadillas?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and flavor. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes for that crispy goodness!

Can I freeze Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas?
Absolutely! For the best results, wrap your assembled quesadillas tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw them in the fridge overnight and warm them on the stove until they are crispy and heated through—about 5 minutes per side.

What should I do if my quesadillas are soggy?
If that happens, it’s likely they were overloaded with filling or not cooked long enough. To prevent sogginess, make sure to layer the filling evenly and don’t overload each tortilla. Additionally, cooking them long enough to develop a crispy exterior will help!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! If connecting with friends or family, consider any food allergies or dietary restrictions they might have. You can easily substitute ingredients, like using gluten-free tortillas or dairy-free cheese, to accommodate those preferences. Always communicate about allergens, especially if someone has a severe allergy.