Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas are not just a meal; they’re an experience, a symphony of flavors that will undoubtedly tantalize your taste buds and become an instant family favorite. Imagine biting into a perfectly golden, crispy tortilla, revealing tender, smoky BBQ chicken coated in a luscious hot honey glaze, all melded together with gooey, melted cheese. It’s a culinary masterpiece that brings together the comforting familiarity of a classic quesadilla with an exciting, modern twist that promises to elevate your weeknight dinner rotation.
While the humble quesadilla has deep roots in Mexican culinary tradition, evolving from simple corn tortillas filled with cheese to endless savory variations, this particular iteration celebrates a vibrant fusion. It beautifully marries the beloved American backyard barbecue flavor profile with the irresistible kick of hot honey – a condiment that has truly taken the food world by storm for its unique balance of sweetness and heat. This dish truly represents the best of both worlds, offering a delightful interplay of cultures and tastes right on your plate.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas
People absolutely adore this dish for countless reasons. Beyond the incredible sweet, spicy, and savory flavor explosion, it’s the compelling combination of textures – the satisfying crunch of the tortilla giving way to succulent, tender chicken and rich, melty cheese – that truly captivates. Furthermore, it’s incredibly versatile and surprisingly convenient to prepare, making it a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner, an impressive game day snack, or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer. Get ready to embark on a flavor journey that you’ll want to revisit again and again!
Ingredients:
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For the Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Filling:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: For this recipe, I personally lean towards boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they tend to stay incredibly juicy and tender, which is perfect for shredding and ensuring a succulent filling for our Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas. However, if you prefer, chicken breasts work just as wonderfully; just be mindful not to overcook them to keep them moist.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A good quality olive oil is essential for sautéing our aromatics and searing the chicken, providing a lovely base flavor and ensuring nothing sticks to the pan.
- 1 medium yellow onion: Finely chopped. The yellow onion adds a foundational sweetness and aromatic depth to the chicken filling, which beautifully balances the heat of the hot honey and the tang of the BBQ sauce. It’s a non-negotiable for that rich, layered flavor profile.
- 3 cloves garlic: Minced. Garlic is the backbone of so many delicious dishes, and our Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas are no exception. It brings a pungent, savory aroma that truly enhances the overall experience.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This spice is a game-changer! Smoked paprika not only lends a beautiful reddish hue to our chicken but also infuses it with a deep, smoky flavor that perfectly complements the BBQ sauce. It’s a key ingredient for that authentic, robust taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: For a gentle, earthy warmth that layers nicely with the heat from the hot honey. It’s not about making it intensely spicy here, but rather adding another dimension of comforting flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Cumin offers an earthy, slightly nutty note that ties all the other spices and flavors together, adding complexity to our irresistible Hot Honey BBQ Chicken.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, of course! Seasoning throughout the cooking process is crucial for building flavor, so don’t be shy, but always taste as you go.
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce: This is where you can truly personalize your Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas. Choose a BBQ sauce that you genuinely love – whether it’s a smoky, sweet, tangy, or slightly spicy variety. It will be the dominant flavor base for our chicken.
- 1/4 cup hot honey: Ah, the star of the show! Hot honey brings that irresistible sweet-and-spicy kick that makes these quesadillas so unique and memorable. You can find pre-made hot honey in most grocery stores these days, or you can easily make your own by gently warming honey with a generous pinch of red pepper flakes and letting it infuse. This ingredient is what truly elevates these from regular BBQ chicken quesadillas to spectacular Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas.
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For the Quesadillas:
- 8 large (10-inch) flour tortillas: Soft, pliable, and sturdy enough to hold all that delicious filling, large flour tortillas are the perfect vehicle for our Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas. I prefer the 10-inch size to get a good, substantial quesadilla.
- 2 cups shredded cheese blend: For maximum melt and flavor, I recommend a blend of cheeses. My go-to is usually a mix of Monterey Jack for superior meltiness, sharp cheddar for robust flavor, and a touch of mozzarella for that satisfying cheese pull. Pre-shredded works, but freshly shredded cheese truly melts like a dream, often without the anti-caking agents found in packaged varieties.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or a little extra olive oil: This is for crisping up those tortillas to golden-brown perfection. Butter adds a lovely richness, while olive oil provides a lighter, equally effective crisp.
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Optional Toppings (highly recommended for a complete experience!):
- Fresh cilantro: Chopped. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro provides a bright, herbaceous contrast to the rich and spicy flavors.
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop of cool, creamy sour cream or Greek yogurt offers a wonderful counterpoint to the heat and richness of the Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas.
- Diced avocado or guacamole: For a rich, buttery texture and added healthy fats. Avocado is always a welcome addition in my book!
- Extra hot honey: If you’re a true hot honey enthusiast like me, an additional drizzle over the finished quesadillas is pure bliss.
- Thinly sliced jalapeños: For those who crave an extra layer of fresh, vibrant heat.
- A squeeze of lime juice: A little citrus zest can brighten and elevate all the flavors in the Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas, making them even more irresistible.
1. Preparing the Irresistible Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Filling
This is where the magic begins, creating the heart and soul of your Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas. Trust me, taking your time with this filling pays off immensely in the final flavor profile.
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Sauté the Aromatics to Perfection:
Grab a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or a Dutch oven, my friends. I find that a good quality pan helps with even heat distribution, which is key for building layers of flavor. Place your chosen pan over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Allow the oil to heat up until it’s shimmering slightly – that’s your cue that it’s ready. Toss in your finely chopped yellow onion. We’re not just cooking them; we’re coaxing out their natural sweetness and softening them until they become translucent and incredibly fragrant. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes, during which you should stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent any browning. You’ll notice the kitchen filling with a wonderful, sweet aroma – that’s when you know you’re on the right track for making outstanding Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas.
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Infuse with Garlic and Aromatic Spices:
Now, add your minced garlic to the skillet with the softened onions. Let it cook for just about 30 seconds to a minute, stirring constantly, until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. It’s crucial not to burn the garlic here, as burnt garlic can quickly turn bitter and overpower your dish. Next, sprinkle in the smoked paprika, chili powder, and ground cumin. Stir these glorious spices into the onion and garlic mixture and let them cook for another minute. This brief ‘toasting’ of the spices is a small but mighty step; it awakens their essential oils and really brings out their deep, complex flavors, which will infuse into every bite of your Hot Honey Bbq Chicken. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper at this stage. Remember, seasoning in layers builds the best flavor.
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Sear the Chicken for Flavor and Texture:
Gently push the aromatic mixture to one side of the pan, creating a clear space. Place your boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into the empty space. If you’re using chicken breasts, I often recommend slicing them thinner or butterflying them to ensure more even and quicker cooking. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, aiming for a beautiful, golden-brown crust. This initial searing isn’t about cooking the chicken all the way through; rather, it’s about developing incredible flavor and texture on the exterior, which will contribute immensely to the overall richness of our Hot Honey Bbq Chicken. If your pan feels too crowded, it’s always best to sear the chicken in batches to avoid steaming it. This step adds a fantastic foundational layer of taste that truly enhances our Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas.
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Simmer in Luscious BBQ Sauce:
Once your chicken has a lovely sear, pour in your 1 cup of favorite BBQ sauce directly over the chicken and the onion-garlic-spice mixture. Stir everything together gently, ensuring that every piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in that rich, flavorful sauce. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover your skillet, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your chicken; breasts might be ready closer to 15 minutes, while thicker thighs could take up to 20-25 minutes. The goal here is truly tender, fall-apart chicken that is easily shreddable. This simmering process allows all those incredible BBQ flavors to meld beautifully with the chicken, creating a deep, savory foundation for our Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas.
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Shred and Coat for Ultimate Tenderness:
Once the chicken is perfectly cooked and fork-tender, carefully remove it from the skillet and place it on a clean cutting board. Using two forks, pull the chicken apart into bite-sized shredded pieces. It should be very tender and incredibly easy to shred, almost falling apart on its own. Return all the shredded chicken to the skillet with the remaining BBQ sauce mixture. Stir everything together thoroughly, making sure every single strand of chicken is coated in that delicious, savory sauce. This step creates the succulent, flavorful base that will make your Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas truly irresistible.
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Introduce the Star: The Hot Honey!
Now for the grand finale of the chicken filling! Drizzle the 1/4 cup of hot honey generously over the shredded BBQ chicken. Stir it in thoroughly, ensuring that the hot honey is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Take a moment to taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you’re craving a little more heat, feel free to add an extra dash of hot honey or even a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper. If you find it needs a touch more sweetness or tang, a little more BBQ sauce can do the trick. This crucial step is what defines these incredible quesadillas, creating that signature sweet-and-spicy kick that will have everyone asking for your recipe for Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas. Keep the filling warm or set it aside while you prepare your other components, eagerly awaiting its destiny in the tortillas.
2. Preparing Your Quesadilla Assembly Line
Efficiency is key when assembling quesadillas, so having all your components ready to go will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
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Grate the Cheese (If Not Pre-Shredded):
If you’re using block cheese, now is the ideal time to shred it. I always recommend freshly shredded cheese for quesadillas because it melts significantly better and more evenly than most pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents that can hinder a perfect melt. Aim for approximately 2 cups of your chosen blend. As mentioned, a fantastic combination that I swear by for Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas includes Monterey Jack for its incredible meltiness, sharp cheddar for a robust, savory flavor, and a touch of mozzarella for that desirable stretchy, gooey texture. This blend ensures maximum cheesiness and an utterly satisfying bite.
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Organize Your Workspace for Seamless Assembly:
Before you even think about heating the pan for your Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas, take a moment to set up your culinary command center. Ensure all your prepared components are within arm’s reach: your stack of large flour tortillas, your glorious and warm Hot Honey BBQ Chicken filling, your generously shredded cheese, and your butter (or olive oil) for the pan. Additionally, if you plan on adding any of the optional fresh toppings – like cilantro, sour cream, or diced avocado – have them prepped and ready to go for serving. This meticulous organization transforms the assembly process from a hurried scramble into a smooth, almost meditative experience, allowing you to focus on crafting perfectly cooked, delicious Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas without any last-minute stress.
3. Assembling and Cooking Your Perfect Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
This is where everything comes together, transforming simple ingredients into a golden, cheesy, and utterly delicious meal.
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Heat the Pan to Perfection:
Place a large non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned cast-iron pan over medium heat. Add about 1/2 tablespoon of unsalted butter (or a drizzle of olive oil). Allow it to melt and coat the bottom of the pan evenly. You want a nice, even heat – not too high, which would burn the tortilla, and not too low, which would prevent it from crisping properly. We’re aiming for that beautiful golden-brown crust that truly makes Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas exceptional.
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Lay Down the First Tortilla and Warm It:
Once the butter is melted and the pan is perfectly heated, carefully place one flour tortilla into the skillet. Let it warm for about 30 seconds to a minute until it starts to soften slightly and become more pliable. This gentle warming makes it easier to fold and helps it get a head start on that crisp texture.
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Layer the Cheese (The Foundation):
Now, sprinkle about 1/4 cup of your shredded cheese blend evenly over half of the tortilla. This initial layer of cheese is incredibly important; it acts as a delicious, melty “glue” that will securely hold our filling in place once it starts to melt, ensuring your Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas stay perfectly intact.
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Generously Add the Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Filling:
Spoon a generous 1/2 to 3/4 cup of your prepared Hot Honey BBQ Chicken filling over the cheese on that same half of the tortilla. Be careful not to overfill! While it’s tempting to cram in as much as possible, overfilling can make your quesadilla difficult to fold, cook unevenly, and potentially spill its delicious contents all over your pan. We want perfectly structured, easy-to-eat Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas, so a mindful portion is key.
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Top with More Cheese (For Maximum Meltiness):
Sprinkle another 1/4 cup of cheese directly over the chicken filling. This ensures maximum cheesiness and, crucially, helps to seal the quesadilla shut once it melts, keeping all that incredible Hot Honey BBQ Chicken goodness safely inside.
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Fold, Press, and Cook to Golden Perfection:
Carefully fold the empty half of the tortilla over the filled half, creating a neat half-moon shape. Gently press down with a spatula to encourage the cheese to begin melting and sealing the edges. Cook for 2-4 minutes per side, or until the tortilla is beautifully golden brown and wonderfully crispy, and the cheese inside is thoroughly melted and delightfully gooey. You’ll know it’s ready when you see that gorgeous golden-brown exterior and feel the satisfying crispness when you gently tap it. This is the moment where your Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas truly come alive, achieving that perfect balance of crispy exterior and warm, gooey interior.
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Repeat for a Feast of Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas:
Remove the cooked quesadilla from the pan and place it on a clean cutting board. If necessary, wipe out the pan with a paper towel to remove any stray cheese or burnt bits. Add another 1/2 tablespoon of butter (or a drizzle of olive oil) to the pan and allow it to melt. Then, repeat the entire process for the remaining tortillas and filling. Before you know it, you’ll be a Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadilla-making pro, churning out a stack of these irresistible treats for everyone to enjoy!
4. Serving Your Delicious Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
The final step is to present your masterpieces and dive in!
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Slice and Serve with Style:
Once all your Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas are cooked to crispy, cheesy perfection, transfer each one to a cutting board. Using a pizza cutter or a sharp chef’s knife, slice each quesadilla into 2 or 3 neat wedges. I find that wedges are the perfect size for dipping and are incredibly easy to handle, especially when shared. Arrange these tempting wedges artfully on a serving platter.
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Garnish and Elevate the Experience:
Now comes the fun part – the toppings! Garnish your Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas generously with a sprinkle of fresh, vibrant cilantro. Add a dollop of cool, creamy sour cream or Greek yogurt to provide a delightful contrast to the warmth and spice. Don’t forget some creamy, diced avocado, or a spoonful of fresh guacamole for added richness. If you’re feeling extra bold and truly want to amplify that signature flavor, a final drizzle of additional hot honey over the top will take your Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas to an unparalleled level of deliciousness. For those who love an extra kick, a few thin slices of fresh jalapeño will add a beautiful pop of color and heat. And finally, a squeeze of fresh lime juice over everything adds a wonderful bright counterpoint to the rich, savory flavors, tying all the elements together harmoniously.
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Immediate Gratification:
These Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas are truly at their absolute best when enjoyed immediately, straight from the pan. They are warm, the tortillas are perfectly crispy, and the cheese is still wonderfully melted and gooey. Gather your family and friends and dive into this flavorful experience without delay!
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Leftovers (if any!):
While these quesadillas are designed for immediate enjoyment, any leftover Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. For the best reheating results, I recommend using a dry skillet over medium-low heat or a toaster oven. This method helps to regain some of that lovely crispness that makes quesadillas so satisfying. While microwaving is an option for quick reheating, be aware that you’ll likely lose that desirable crispy texture, resulting in a softer, less appealing quesadilla. Nevertheless, the flavors of the Hot Honey BBQ Chicken filling will still be fantastic!
Conclusion:
Oh, my friends, if there’s one recipe I truly believe will become a staple in your culinary repertoire, it’s this one. We’ve explored the magic that happens when smoky BBQ meets fiery hot honey, all wrapped up in a perfectly crisp tortilla with tender chicken and gooey cheese. The symphony of flavors in every bite is nothing short of extraordinary—a delightful dance between sweet, spicy, savory, and wonderfully comforting. I promise you, these aren’t just any quesadillas; they are a vibrant explosion of taste that will wake up your taste buds and leave you craving more.
From the moment you take that first bite, you’ll understand why I’m so enthusiastic. The initial sweetness from the honey, quickly followed by the tangy kick of the BBQ sauce, and then that gentle, building heat from the chili, all harmonizing with the succulent chicken and the rich, melted cheese. It’s truly a game-changer for weeknight dinners, party appetizers, or even a fun weekend lunch. The ease of preparation, combined with the incredibly satisfying results, makes this a recipe that delivers big on flavor without demanding hours in the kitchen. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when thoughtfully combined, can create something truly spectacular and memorable.
Elevate Your Meal: Serving Suggestions and Perfect Pairings
Now, let’s talk about how to make your Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas an even more unforgettable experience. While they are absolutely stellar on their own, pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal to new heights. For a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, spicy flavors, I adore serving these with a simple, crisp coleslaw. The crunch and the creamy, tangy dressing cut through the richness beautifully. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette is another fantastic option, adding a much-needed burst of freshness and a vibrant splash of color to your plate. If you’re leaning into a more indulgent, comfort-food vibe, a side of seasoned fries or sweet potato fries would be utterly delicious, perfect for dipping into any leftover hot honey sauce or even a dollop of sour cream.
And speaking of dipping, don’t shy away from offering a variety of sauces! A cool dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can provide a lovely contrast to the heat, while a bowl of creamy ranch dressing is always a crowd-pleaser. For those who love an extra kick, a drizzle of additional hot honey or a side of your favorite salsa or guacamole would be absolutely divine. Think about a refreshing beverage too – a crisp lager, an chilled iced tea, or even a sparkling limeade would complement the bold flavors perfectly, making for a truly satisfying and complete meal experience.
Unleash Your Creativity: Exciting Variations to Try
One of the things I love most about cooking is the freedom to experiment, and this recipe is incredibly versatile! While the classic version is a standout, don’t hesitate to put your own spin on these delightful quesadillas. If you’re not a fan of chicken, or simply want to try something new, shredded pulled pork or even thinly sliced cooked steak would be phenomenal substitutes, soaking up all that incredible hot honey BBQ goodness. For a vegetarian twist, consider using a hearty mix of black beans, corn, and bell peppers, perhaps with some crumbled paneer or a plant-based chicken alternative, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy these incredible flavors.
You can also play around with the cheese! While cheddar and Monterey Jack are my go-to, a smoky gouda, a sharp provolone, or even a spicy pepper jack could introduce exciting new dimensions. Want more heat? Add an extra pinch of cayenne pepper to your hot honey, or sprinkle some finely diced jalapeños inside the quesadillas before cooking. For a touch of extra sweetness, a thinly sliced red onion caramelized before adding to the filling would be a wonderful addition. And for a textural upgrade, consider adding some crispy bacon bits into the filling for an irresistible smoky crunch. These variations mean you can truly make the recipe your own, adapting it to your taste preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand.
So, there you have it, my friends. I truly hope you’re as excited as I am about this incredible dish. These Hot Honey Bbq Chicken Quesadillas are more than just a meal; they’re an experience, a journey for your taste buds, and a guaranteed way to bring smiles to faces. I urge you, absolutely implore you, to whip up a batch (or two!) of these delightful quesadillas very soon. Don’t just read about the deliciousness—taste it for yourself! And when you do, please, please share your culinary adventures with me. I love hearing about your experiences, seeing your amazing creations, and discovering any unique twists or serving suggestions you come up with. Let’s spread the hot honey BBQ love far and wide!
Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are not just a meal; they’re an experience, a symphony of flavors that will undoubtedly tantalize your taste buds and become an instant family favorite. Imagine biting into a perfectly golden, crispy tortilla, revealing tender, smoky BBQ chicken coated in a luscious hot honey glaze, all melded together with gooey, melted cheese. It’s a culinary masterpiece that brings together the comforting familiarity of a classic quesadilla with an exciting, modern twist that promises to elevate your weeknight dinner rotation.
Ingredients
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2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
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1 cup BBQ sauce
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2 tablespoons honey
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1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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4 large flour tortillas
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1/2 cup sliced red onions
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1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
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1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Sour cream for serving (optional)
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Guacamole for serving (optional)
Instructions
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Step 1
In a large skillet, heat a small portion of the 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the 1/2 cup sliced red onions and 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken, 1 cup BBQ sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 teaspoon hot sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all ingredients and heat through. Keep warm. -
Step 2
If not already shredded, grate the 1 cup cheddar cheese and 1 cup mozzarella cheese. Organize your workspace with the tortillas, filling, and cheese within reach. -
Step 3
Heat a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Add a small portion of the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to coat the pan. -
Step 4
Place one large flour tortilla in the heated skillet. Sprinkle about 1/4 cup of the mixed shredded cheese evenly over half of the tortilla. Spoon a generous amount of the Hot Honey BBQ chicken filling over the cheese on the same half. Top the chicken filling with another 1/4 cup of cheese. -
Step 5
Carefully fold the empty half of the tortilla over the filled half to create a half-moon. Gently press down with a spatula. Cook for 2-4 minutes per side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and gooey. -
Step 6
Remove the cooked quesadilla, slice into wedges, and keep warm while cooking the remaining quesadillas, adding more olive oil to the pan between quesadillas if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro, sour cream, and guacamole, if desired.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
Allergy Information
Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.