Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas: 5 Sweet-Spicy Delights

There’s something truly magical about a crispy, gooey quesadilla, especially when it’s packed with savory goodness and a kick of sweetness. Enter the hot honey BBQ chicken quesadilla, a culinary delight that harmonizes the smoky essence of barbecue with a tantalizing sweet-spice. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, these quesadillas promise that each bite is a harmonious blend of flavor and texture, sure to put a smile on anyone’s face. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newcomer, this recipe is as simple as it is delicious.

Why Make This Recipe

Combines the comforting flavors of BBQ with a sweet twist that excites the palate.
Versatile for meal prep or parties, accommodating both hungry family members and surprise guests.
Quick to make and virtually a crowd-pleaser; who can resist a crispy quesadilla?

You’ll find that once you make these hot honey BBQ chicken quesadillas, they’ll become a regular in your rotation. The charming blend of spicy and sweet flavors will have everyone coming back for more.

How to Make Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

Crafting the perfect hot honey BBQ chicken quesadilla isn’t just straightforward; it’s a fun process that lets you embrace your culinary creativity. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you make your own delightful quesadillas.

Prepare the fillings
Start by taking your cooked chicken and shredding it into bite-sized pieces, ensuring it’s easy to fit into your tortillas. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the hot honey BBQ sauce, tossing everything together until the chicken is well-coated. This mixture is where the magic begins – the bold flavors of the sauce will infuse every bite of your quesadilla.
Heat the skillet
Grab your favorite skillet and heat it over medium heat while adding the olive oil to ensure a beautiful golden crisp on your quesadilla. Allow the oil to warm up for about a minute.
Assemble the quesadilla
Place one tortilla in the skillet, transitioning to the next step as the tortilla becomes slightly warm. Sprinkle half of the tortilla with shredded cheese—get creative here, incorporating some extra flavor by using a mix of cheeses if you’d like.
Add the filling
Layer a generous portion of your hot honey BBQ chicken mixture on top of the cheese. Don’t hesitate; this is where the heart and flavor of the quesadilla lie!
Top it off
Sprinkle a little more cheese over the chicken mixture before folding the tortilla in half. This step will help lock in all the deliciousness.
Cook and flip
Allow your quesadilla to cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip it over and cook the other side for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. At this stage, you can press down lightly with a spatula to ensure it crisps up nicely.
Final touches
Once both sides are beautifully toasted and the cheese is melted to perfection, remove the quesadilla from the skillet. Slice it into wedges with a sharp knife.
Repeat
Calm down your hungry cravings and repeat these steps for the remaining tortillas until all the chicken and cheese are used up.
Serve warm
Enjoy warm with your favorite sides or dips like sour cream, guacamole, or even a little extra hot honey sauce for that added kick!

Storage Tips for Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

If you have leftover quesadillas (which may be unlikely), here’s how to ensure they stay fresh:

Refrigeration: Place leftover quesadillas in an airtight container and refrigerate. They should last about 3 to 4 days at a temperature of 40°F or lower.
Freezing: To store them longer, consider wrapping each quesadilla individually with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Properly stored, they can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating: When you’re ready to dig in again, reheat them on the skillet over medium heat for a crispy texture or use the microwave for a quick heat-up. Just be careful not to overheat to avoid a chewy result!

How to Serve Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

Serving your hot honey BBQ chicken quesadillas can be just as creative as making them. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game:

Dipping sauces: Consider providing a selection of sauces like sour cream, guacamole, or even a chipotle ranch dressing for extra flavor layers.
Fresh garnishes: Chop fresh cilantro or slice green onions to sprinkle on top just before serving. They will add a pop of color and freshness.
Side salads: A refreshing side salad with cherry tomatoes, avocado, and a light vinaigrette pairs well and balances the richness of the quesadillas.
Serving style: Present them in a playful way, either served whole or cut into wedges on a colorful platter with dips in small bowls around it. It invites a sense of conviviality and casual sharing.

Tips to Make Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

Use high-quality tortillas to get that perfect crunch.
If you enjoy a little extra heat, try adding sliced jalapeños into the chicken mixture.
Don’t skip on the cheese; it provides essential gooeyness that brings the whole dish together.
Consider warming your tortillas briefly in the microwave before assembling them for easier handling.

Variations or Substitutions

If you want to switch things up, there are many ways to customize your hot honey BBQ chicken quesadillas. Here are a couple of suggestions:

Meat options: If you prefer, instead of chicken, swap it out for pulled pork or even shredded beef. Each offers a unique flavor while still complementing the BBQ sauce well.
Vegetarian version: Replace chicken with roasted seasonal vegetables or black beans for a filling and flavorful vegetarian option. Add spices like smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes! You can prepare the fillings in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just assemble and cook the quesadillas when you’re ready to serve.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add more flavor and moisture to your quesadillas. Just ensure they are fully cooked and shredded before mixing with the sauce.

Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: To amp up the heat level, consider adding ingredients like sliced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a spicier BBQ sauce to the chicken mixture.

Nutritional Info

When it comes to indulging in delicious food like hot honey BBQ chicken quesadillas, understanding the nutritional aspects can help you enjoy them even more. Here’s a generalized breakdown per serving (assuming two wedges):

Calories: About 350
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 16g
Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 3g

This recipe is rich in protein and can be adjusted in calories based on how much cheese and sauce you opt to use. Pair with a side salad for balanced nutrition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Though making hot honey BBQ chicken quesadillas is generally straightforward, you might stumble upon a couple of common pitfalls. Keep these tips in mind to ensure a successful outcome:

Using too much sauce: It can make the quesadillas soggy. Aim for just enough to coat the chicken for flavor without making it drenched.
Overcrowding the skillet: It’s tempting to make multiple quesadillas at once, but cooking one or two at a time ensures they don’t steam and turn out chewy.
Not preheating the skillet: Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the tortilla, as this will allow for a nice crisp texture.

Final Thoughts

Hot honey BBQ chicken quesadillas are not just a meal; they’re an experience filled with flavor, comfort, and creativity. This dish stands as an ideal solution for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers, sure to satisfy your family’s cravings with minimal effort. Whether you’re treating yourself or feeding a crowd, these quesadillas are destined to become a fan favorite. Dive in, experiment with flavors, and enjoy every sweet-spicy bite that this recipe promises. Happy cooking!