Chicken Quesadillas with Chipotle Ranch
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Chicken quesadillas with chipotle ranch hold a special place in my heart and kitchen. There’s something utterly satisfying about biting into a warm, cheesy quesadilla bursting with flavor. These chicken quesadillas not only deliver on taste but are also quick to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights or a casual family gathering. The addition of chipotle ranch dressing adds a delightful twist that elevates this dish beyond the ordinary, making it a favorite for both kids and adults alike.
Why you’ll love this dish
Making chicken quesadillas with chipotle ranch at home is a game changer. Not only are they budget-friendly, but they also provide a delicious meal that checks all the boxes—savory, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. This dish is perfect for any occasion; whether you’re looking for a quick dinner after a long day or a fun dish to share with friends during game night, these quesadillas will not disappoint.
"I whipped these up for a last-minute gathering, and they were a hit! Everyone loved the chipotle ranch—it added a unique flavor that I never expected!"
The cooking process explained
Let’s break it down! Making these chicken quesadillas involves a few simple steps but results in a mouthwatering dish that everyone will enjoy. You’ll start by cooking the chicken and onion with a blend of spices, then marry that with creamy chipotle ranch and cheese. Finally, you’ll fry it up in a tortilla for a crispy finish. Trust me; the process is as fun as it is rewarding!
What you’ll need
Here’s a comprehensive ingredient list so you can gather everything before you start cooking:
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 4 ounces diced green chilies
- ⅓ cup chipotle ranch dressing
- ⅓ cup avocado ranch dressing
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 burrito-sized flour tortillas
- 1 tablespoon butter
Tip: Don’t hesitate to swap the cheeses for your favorites or adjust the spice levels based on your taste preference.
Step-by-step instructions
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the diced chicken and onions to the pan. Season with Slap Ya Mama, garlic powder, cumin, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir and cook until the chicken is fully cooked, and the onions are translucent.
Incorporate the diced green chilies, chipotle ranch dressing, and avocado ranch dressing into the chicken mixture. Mix well and let it cook for a few more minutes to meld the flavors.
In a separate frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Place a tortilla in the pan and allow one side to heat up. Flip it over.
On one half of the tortilla, spoon over the chicken mixture, followed by a generous amount of both cheeses.
Fold the tortilla over and fry until it’s golden brown and crispy. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and chicken mixture.
Remove from the pan and place the quesadillas on a plate. Cut into wedges just before serving.
Top with sour cream, green onions, cilantro, or avocado as desired.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serve these delicious chicken quesadillas alongside a fresh side salad or some guacamole. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro can elevate your dish even further. For a complete meal, consider pairing them with some Spanish rice or a refreshing corn salad.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftover quesadillas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To enjoy them again, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. For longer storage, feel free to freeze them, but remember to wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn.
Helpful cooking tips
- For an extra crunchy quesadilla, you can brush the tortillas with a little more butter before frying.
- Prepped chicken earlier in the day? This is a great way to save time getting dinner on the table.
- If you prefer more heat, consider adding jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese.
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with your quesadillas! You can add sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or even swap meats for ground turkey or beef. Want a vegetarian option? Replace the chicken with black beans or sautéed mushrooms for a delicious alternative.
Your questions answered
Q: How long does it take to prepare these quesadillas?
A: Prep time is about 10 minutes, and cooking usually takes around 20 minutes.
Q: Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
A: Absolutely, but keep in mind that corn tortillas tend to be a bit more fragile.
Q: What can I serve on the side?
A: Fresh salsa, Mexican rice, or a simple salad make excellent sides that complement the quesadillas beautifully.
Now that you’ve got all the details, it’s time to gather your ingredients and enjoy the delightful experience of making these chicken quesadillas with chipotle ranch! Happy cooking!
Chicken Quesadillas with Chipotle Ranch
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken and onions to the pan. Season with Slap Ya Mama, garlic powder, cumin, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir and cook until the chicken is fully cooked and the onions are translucent.
- Incorporate the diced green chilies, chipotle ranch dressing, and avocado ranch dressing into the chicken mixture. Mix well and let it cook for a few more minutes to meld the flavors.
- In a separate frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Place a tortilla in the pan and allow one side to heat up. Flip it over.
- On one half of the tortilla, spoon over the chicken mixture, followed by a generous amount of both cheeses.
- Fold the tortilla over and fry until it's golden brown and crispy. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and chicken mixture.
- Remove from the pan and place the quesadillas on a plate. Cut into wedges just before serving.
- Top with sour cream, green onions, cilantro, or avocado as desired.
