Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Introduction
Easy Chicken Quesadillas are a go-to meal when you’re craving something cheesy, flavorful, and simple to prepare. With seasoned shredded chicken, lots of gooey cheese, and a crispy tortilla, these quesadillas are always a hit. They’re also incredibly versatile—add your favorite veggies or toppings to make them your own. Serve them with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for an extra treat!
Ingredients
For the Quesadillas:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar/Monterey Jack)
- 8 medium flour tortillas
- 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
For Serving (Optional):
- Salsa
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and well seasoned. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Assemble the Quesadillas
Lay out 4 tortillas on a flat surface. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese over each tortilla, then divide the cooked chicken evenly between the tortillas. Top the chicken with more cheese, and place another tortilla on top to create a quesadilla.
3. Cook the Quesadillas
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1/2 tablespoon of butter and let it melt. Place one of the quesadillas in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted. Repeat with the remaining quesadillas, adding more butter as needed.
4. Serve
Remove the cooked quesadillas from the skillet and let them cool slightly. Cut each quesadilla into wedges and serve warm with salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover cooked chicken, or even grilled chicken for this recipe. Just make sure it’s shredded or finely chopped.
- Cheese: Use your favorite cheese—Mexican blend, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a bit of spice.
- Tortillas: Flour tortillas work best for quesadillas, as they get nice and crispy while holding the fillings together.
Variations
- Vegetable Quesadillas: Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms along with the chicken for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Chicken Quesadillas: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture for some heat.
- BBQ Chicken Quesadillas: Toss the shredded chicken in your favorite BBQ sauce before assembling for a smoky, sweet twist.
- Buffalo Chicken Quesadillas: Mix the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and add blue cheese crumbles for a buffalo chicken version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the quesadillas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply cook them in a skillet until crispy and the cheese is melted.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven until warmed through to maintain the crispy texture.
Can I freeze quesadillas?
Yes, you can freeze assembled, uncooked quesadillas. Wrap each quesadilla in plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. To cook from frozen, heat in a skillet over medium-low heat until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden brown.
What can I serve with chicken quesadillas?
Serve these quesadillas with your favorite sides like salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or even a simple salad. Spanish rice and black beans also pair well with quesadillas for a complete meal.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, but keep in mind that corn tortillas are smaller and more delicate, so they may not hold as much filling and can be trickier to work with. You may need to cook them for a shorter time to prevent them from breaking.
Easy Chicken Quesadillas are a quick, tasty, and versatile meal that everyone loves. Whether you’re making them for a simple weeknight dinner or a fun weekend snack, they’re always a hit. Customize the fillings to suit your preferences and enjoy these cheesy, flavorful quesadillas any time!
Try this recipe and enjoy the melty, cheesy goodness of a classic chicken quesadilla. They’re sure to become a family favorite!
Let me know if you need more variations or additional tips for this recipe!
