Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the combination of sweet and spicy, especially when it comes together in a dish that’s oh-so-comforting. These Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas offer a delightful burst of flavor that will have your taste buds dancing. With juicy shredded chicken coated in a sticky sweet and spicy sauce, layered between gooey melted cheese and crisp tortillas, this dish is perfect for a casual dinner, a fun gathering with friends, or a cozy night in. Let’s dive into this easy and scrumptious recipe that will become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup hot honey
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a cheese blend)
- 4 large tortillas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional toppings: sliced green onions, cilantro, sour cream, jalapeños
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, hot honey, barbecue sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is wonderfully mixed together.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat, then add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and let it warm up.
- Place one tortilla in the skillet, and sprinkle about 1/2 cup of cheese evenly over the tortilla, creating a luscious cheesy base.
- Spoon a generous portion of the savory chicken mixture on top of the cheese, spreading it out evenly for a delightful bite every time.
- Add another 1/2 cup of cheese on top of the chicken mixture, then gently place a second tortilla on top to seal in all that goodness.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom tortilla turns golden brown and the cheese begins to melt beautifully.
- Carefully flip the quesadilla, adding the remaining tablespoon of olive oil if necessary, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the other side is also golden and the cheese is fully melted.
- Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it cool for a minute before slicing into wedges, which will reveal the oozy, cheesy filling.
- Repeat the process with the remaining ingredients to create more delicious quesadillas.
- Serve warm and garnish with your choice of optional toppings such as sliced green onions, cilantro, sour cream, or jalapeños for an extra kick!
Notes or Tips
- For an added burst of flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the chicken mixture.
- You can customize your cheese blend based on your preference—pepper jack cheese adds a nice kick!
- To reheat leftovers, place them in a skillet over low heat to retain that crispy texture.
Cooking Techniques
Getting the quesadillas perfectly crispy and golden involves a little technique. Make sure your skillet is adequately heated before adding the tortillas. Don’t rush the process; give each quesadilla ample time to cook on each side for the best texture. Flipping them carefully, and using a spatula can help prevent any delicious filling from spilling out!
FAQ
- Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
You can substitute shredded beef, pulled pork, or even a plant-based protein if you’re looking for a vegetarian option! - What type of tortillas work best?
Flour tortillas yield a soft, slightly chewy texture, while corn tortillas bring a delightful crunch—choose based on your preference! - Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix the chicken filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to make the quesadillas.
Conclusion
These Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are not just a meal; they’re a warm embrace for your taste buds! With their perfect balance of flavors and textures, they’re sure to bring joy to your dinner table. So prep, cook, and savor each delicious bite as you and your loved ones enjoy this comforting dish. Happy cooking!