These Easy Chicken Quesadillas are the perfect quick and delicious meal, filled with tender chicken, gooey melted cheese, and savory seasonings. They are ideal for a busy weeknight dinner or a simple lunch, and you can customize them with your favorite toppings and fillings. Serve them with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for an irresistible dish.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped onions (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.
Step 2: Assemble the Quesadillas
- Lay one flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheese evenly over half of the tortilla.
- Spread about 1/2 cup of the seasoned chicken over the cheese.
- Add some chopped bell peppers, onions, and cilantro if using.
- Sprinkle an additional 1/2 cup of cheese over the chicken and vegetables.
- Fold the tortilla in half, pressing gently to seal.
- Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and fillings.
Step 3: Cook the Quesadillas
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease the skillet with cooking spray or a small amount of oil.
- Place one quesadilla in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt.
- Carefully flip the quesadilla and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the other side is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
- Transfer the cooked quesadilla to a cutting board and repeat with the remaining quesadillas.
Step 4: Serve
- Let the quesadillas cool for a minute, then cut each quesadilla into wedges.
- Serve with salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite toppings. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe, saving time and adding flavor.
- Cheese: Use a blend of cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend for the best flavor and meltiness.
- Filling: Don’t overfill the quesadillas, as this can make them difficult to flip and cause the filling to spill out.
- Cooking Temperature: Cook the quesadillas over medium heat to ensure the cheese melts without burning the tortilla.
Variations
- Vegetarian Quesadillas: Omit the chicken and use black beans, corn, and sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
- Spicy Quesadillas: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.
- BBQ Chicken Quesadillas: Mix the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce before assembling for a sweet and smoky flavor.
- Breakfast Quesadillas: Add scrambled eggs and cooked bacon or sausage to the filling for a breakfast twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make Quesadillas Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the quesadillas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Cook them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
2. How Do I Store Leftover Quesadillas?
Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
3. Can I Freeze Quesadillas?
Yes, you can freeze quesadillas. Place the uncooked or cooked quesadillas on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in a skillet or oven without thawing.
4. What Can I Serve with Chicken Quesadillas?
Chicken quesadillas pair well with a variety of sides, such as Spanish rice, refried beans, a fresh green salad, or tortilla chips with salsa and guacamole.
These Easy Chicken Quesadillas are a versatile and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a simple lunch. With tender chicken, gooey cheese, and your favorite toppings, they’re sure to be a hit with the whole family. Customize them with your preferred fillings, serve them with your favorite sides, and enjoy the flavors of this classic Mexican-inspired dish. Give this recipe a try, and make quesadilla night a fun and tasty experience for everyone!