Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas

Indulge in the ooey-gooey goodness of Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas, a satisfying and flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick and delicious meal. These quesadillas are filled with tender chicken, savory spices, and melty cheese, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. It’s a crowd-pleaser that is easy to make and a great option for busy weeknights.
Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas are a versatile and customizable meal that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults. They are perfect for a simple dinner, a tasty snack, or even a party appetizer. With a combination of protein, veggies, and cheese, these quesadillas are filling and satisfying.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas
Ingredients:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into small pieces)
- 2 cups chopped onions
- 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
- 2 Tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp taco seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 4 oz can diced green chilies
- 2-3 cups Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)
- 2-3 cups Sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 8 flour tortillas (soft taco size)
- 2 tbsp butter (divided)
Directions:
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Cook chicken, onions, and bell pepper in the pan with taco seasoning, garlic salt, cumin, pepper, and red pepper flakes until chicken is cooked through.
- Add diced green chilies and continue cooking for a few more minutes.
- In a separate pan, melt butter and place a tortilla in the pan.
- Add chicken mixture on one half of the tortilla, sprinkle with both types of cheese, fold the tortilla over, and cook until golden brown.
- Repeat with remaining tortillas and chicken mixture.
- Cut quesadillas into wedges before serving.
- Top with sour cream, green onions, cilantro, or avocado.
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas
Serve the quesadillas hot, straight from the pan, for optimal gooey cheese and crispy tortillas. Cut them into wedges for easy snacking or a fun mealtime experience. Pair with your favorite salsa or guacamole for extra flavor.
How to Store Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas
Store any leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or the oven until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
Tips to Make Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas
- Customize the filling with your favorite ingredients like tomatoes, black beans, or jalapenos.
- Use a combination of cheeses for extra flavor and gooeyness.
- Make sure not to overfill the quesadillas to prevent them from falling apart.
Variation
For a healthier version, use whole wheat tortillas and add more veggies like spinach or mushrooms to the filling. You can also use turkey or tofu as a substitute for chicken.
FAQs
- Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the quesadillas right before cooking.
- Can I freeze the quesadillas? Yes, you can freeze the cooked quesadillas for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe? Absolutely, using leftover cooked chicken can save time and make this recipe even quicker to prepare.