Looking for a quick and satisfying dinner that never fails to please? This easy chicken quesadilla recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal that's ready in just 20 minutes. Perfectly seasoned chicken, melty cheese, and crispy tortillas come together to create that authentic Mexican-inspired flavor you're craving. Whether you're cooking for your family or hosting friends, these chicken quesadillas are guaranteed to become your go-to recipe.

Why You'll Love This Simple Chicken Quesadilla Recipe

This chicken quesadilla recipe stands out for its perfect balance of convenience and flavor. Traditional Mexican quesadillas have been adapted for home cooking without sacrificing any of the authentic taste. They're perfect for busy weeknights, casual entertaining, or when you need to transform leftover chicken into something exciting. Plus, they're customizable to suit everyone's tastes and dietary preferences.

Jump to:

• Why You'll Love This Simple Chicken Quesadilla Recipe
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Hints and Tips
• Dietary Benefits & Serving Suggestions
• Recipe Variations & Substitutions
• Equipment
• Storage
• Top Tip
• FAQ
• Related
• Pairing
• Chicken Quesadilla Recipe

Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

• 6 large flour tortillas (8-inch)
• 2 cups Mexican cheese blend, shredded
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• Cooking spray or butter for tortillas

Optional Toppings:

• Sour cream
• Guacamole
• Pico de gallo
• Fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges
• Hot sauce

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
2. Add diced onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes)
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant
4. Add shredded chicken and taco seasoning
5. Stir well to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste
7. Transfer to a bowl and clean the skillet for quesadilla assembly

Assemble the Quesadillas

1. Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface
2. Sprinkle about ½ cup of the mixed cheeses on one half of the tortilla
3. Add approximately ⅓ cup of the chicken mixture over the cheese
4. Top with another sprinkle of cheese (this helps the quesadilla stick together)
5. Fold the empty half over the filled half to create a half-moon shape

Cook the Quesadillas

1. Heat the same skillet over medium heat
2. Lightly spray one side of the quesadilla with cooking spray (or brush with butter)
3. Place the quesadilla in the skillet, sprayed side down
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy
5. Spray the top side with cooking spray, then carefully flip
6. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until cheese is fully melted and both sides are crispy
7. Remove to a cutting board and let rest for 1 minute before slicing

Hints and Tips

• Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor
• Shred your own cheese rather than using pre-shredded for better melting
• Don't overfill the quesadillas – less is more for proper sealing
• Let the quesadillas rest briefly before cutting to prevent the filling from spilling out

Dietary Benefits & Serving Suggestions

This chicken quesadilla recipe is high in protein and can be adapted for various dietary needs. For a healthier version, use whole wheat tortillas and reduce the cheese amount. Serve with:

• Mexican rice
• Black beans
• Fresh green salad
• Corn salad
• Mexican coleslaw

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers
• Healthier option: Use low-fat cheese and whole wheat tortillas
• Gluten-free: Replace flour tortillas with corn tortillas
• Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with black beans and corn

Equipment

• Large skillet or griddle
• Spatula
• Cheese grater
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Storage

• Store assembled but uncooked quesadillas between sheets of wax paper in an airtight container for up to 24 hours
• Keep cooked quesadillas in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results, or in the microwave for 30-45 seconds

Top Tip

For the crispiest quesadillas, avoid using too much oil or cooking spray. A light coating is all you need – too much will make the tortillas soggy rather than crispy.

FAQ

Share Your Chicken Quesadilla Recipe Creation! 🌮

How did your Chicken Quesadilla Recipe turn out? Ready to savor something new? This recipe is sure to impress with its juicy seasoned chicken, perfectly melted cheese, and crispy golden tortillas, all enhanced with colorful peppers and onions for that authentic Mexican restaurant flavor. If you're a fan of easy Mexican-inspired dishes and fresh homemade meals, be sure to try our [Marry Me Salmon Recipe] next – another easy-to-make yet delicious treat!

Did you make this Chicken Quesadilla Recipe? We'd love to hear about your experience! Leave a star rating and share your thoughts in the comments. Did you try any creative twists, like adding fresh jalapeños or a drizzle of chipotle cream? Maybe you experimented with different cheese combinations or created your own spice blend for the chicken? Your feedback not only helps others but also contributes to our growing community of home cooks.

Don't forget to share a photo of your culinary creation! We love seeing those perfect grill marks and that irresistible cheese pull. Everyone's quesadilla has its own special touch, and we can't wait to see yours!

Related

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Pairing

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