Quesadillas are a staple in quick and easy meals, but when you add BBQ chicken, crispy bacon, and melty cheese, they become a flavor-packed dish perfect for any occasion.
Whether you are looking for a simple weeknight dinner, a game-day snack, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these BBQ Bacon Chicken Quesadillas deliver on taste and texture.
With a balance of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors, this dish comes together in just 25 minutes. The crispy tortilla, cheesy filling, and bold BBQ sauce make it a meal everyone will love.
We’ll guide you through the best ingredients, step-by-step instructions, dipping sauce pairings, and customization options to make your quesadillas even better.
Ingredients for BBQ Bacon Chicken Quesadillas
To make these quesadillas, you will need simple and flavorful ingredients:
- Chicken – Cooked and shredded; rotisserie chicken works well for convenience.
- Bacon – Cooked until crispy and chopped into small pieces.
- BBQ Sauce – Choose a smoky or sweet variety to complement the flavors.
- Cheese – A blend of cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack creates the best melt.
- Tortillas – Flour tortillas work best for a crispy, golden-brown exterior.
- Butter or Oil – For cooking the quesadillas and achieving the perfect crunch.
- Onions & Peppers (Optional) – Adds extra flavor and texture.
How to Make BBQ Bacon Chicken Quesadillas
Follow these simple steps to create crispy, cheesy, and flavorful BBQ bacon chicken quesadillas.
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Shred the cooked chicken and toss it with your favorite BBQ sauce.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy, then drain and chop it into small pieces.
- If using onions and peppers, sauté them in a pan for a few minutes until soft.
Step 2: Assemble the Quesadillas
- Lay one tortilla flat on a cutting board or plate.
- Evenly distribute the BBQ chicken mixture over one half of the tortilla.
- Sprinkle bacon and shredded cheese over the chicken.
- Fold the tortilla in half or place another tortilla on top to create a full quesadilla.
Step 3: Cook to Perfection
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little butter or oil.
- Place the assembled quesadilla in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the pan and let it cool slightly before slicing into wedges.
Best Dipping Sauces for BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Pairing your quesadillas with the right dipping sauce enhances the flavors. Here are some great options:
- Ranch Dressing – Creamy and tangy, balancing the smoky BBQ flavors.
- Chipotle Mayo – Adds a spicy kick with a hint of smokiness.
- Sour Cream & Chives – Light and refreshing to cut through the richness.
- Extra BBQ Sauce – Enhances the sweet and smoky flavors of the dish.
Customization Ideas & Variations
Quesadillas are versatile, and you can customize them based on your preferences. Try these variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Tex-Mex Twist: Include black beans, corn, or avocado for a Southwestern feel.
- Extra Cheesy: Mix different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, and pepper jack for a richer taste.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap flour tortillas for low-carb tortillas or cheese wraps.
What to Serve with BBQ Bacon Chicken Quesadillas
These quesadillas pair well with a variety of side dishes to complete the meal. Some great options include:
- Coleslaw – A refreshing and crunchy contrast to the smoky flavors.
- Mexican Rice – A classic side that complements the dish.
- Corn Salsa – Sweet and tangy, adding extra texture.
- Loaded Guacamole – A creamy and zesty accompaniment.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and works perfectly for this recipe.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the filling ahead of time, but for the best texture, cook the quesadillas fresh.
Can I bake the quesadillas instead of pan-frying?
Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway for an even crisp.
BBQ Bacon Chicken Quesadillas
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded (rotisserie or grilled)
- ½ cup BBQ sauce your favorite brand
- 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil for cooking
- ½ cup diced onions optional
- ½ cup diced bell peppers optional
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder optional, for extra flavor
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
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Cook and shred the chicken if not using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
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In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until fully coated.
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Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy, then chop it into small pieces.
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If using onions and bell peppers, sauté them in a pan over medium heat until soft.
Step 2: Assemble the Quesadillas
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Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.
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Spread a portion of the BBQ chicken evenly over half of the tortilla.
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Sprinkle crumbled bacon over the chicken.
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Add a generous amount of shredded cheese.
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Fold the tortilla in half, pressing gently to hold everything together.
Step 3: Cook the Quesadillas
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Heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter or oil.
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Place the assembled quesadilla in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
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Remove from the pan and let it cool for a minute before slicing into wedges.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
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Serve warm with ranch dressing, sour cream, or extra BBQ sauce for dipping.
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Pair with coleslaw, guacamole, or corn salsa for a complete meal.