Chicken Quesadillas Recipe

This Chicken Quesadilla recipe is the perfect blend of crispy tortillas, melted cheese, and seasoned chicken. Packed with savory onions, bell peppers, and a hint of lime, these quesadillas are the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re serving them for lunch, dinner, or a fun game day snack, this simple recipe is sure to impress. Quick to prepare, customizable with your favorite ingredients, and full of flavor, these quesadillas are ideal for any occasion.

Ingredients:

For the Quesadillas:

• 1 boneless skinless chicken breast (just under ¾ lb.)
• 1-2 tablespoons avocado oil (or olive oil)
• A splash of chicken broth or dry white wine
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 1 cup bell pepper, diced (red and green)
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 4 (8-inch) flour tortillas (burrito size)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 2 ¾ cups Mexican blend cheese (see notes)

For the Seasonings:

• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon each of: onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, dried oregano, chili powder

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Combine the seasonings and set aside. Slice the chicken breast in half to create 2 thinner pieces. Cover with plastic wrap and use the textured side of a meat tenderizer to pound it to about ½ inch thick. Pat dry and rub each side with 2 teaspoons of the seasoning mixture. Set aside the remaining seasoning for the vegetables.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes, then dice it into small pieces.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Add a splash of chicken broth or white wine to the skillet and scrape up any flavorful bits from the bottom. Increase heat to medium-high and add the diced onions and bell peppers. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add garlic, cilantro, lime juice, hot sauce, honey, and the remaining seasoning. Stir to combine and cook for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.
4. Assemble the Quesadillas: Turn off the heat and wipe the skillet clean. Brush melted butter over one side of each tortilla. Place one tortilla, butter-side down, in the skillet over medium-low heat. Sprinkle ½ cup cheese evenly on top, then add one-quarter of the chicken and vegetable mixture on one half of the tortilla.
5. Cook the Quesadillas: Allow the cheese to melt and the bottom of the tortilla to turn golden brown. Once the bottom is crispy, fold the tortilla in half to form a half-moon shape, pressing gently with a spatula. Remove the quesadilla and set it aside. Repeat the process for the remaining tortillas.
6. Serve: Cut each quesadilla in half and serve with sour cream, salsa, and guacamole for dipping. Enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Chicken Quesadillas are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and flavorful. The seasoned chicken, sautéed onions, peppers, and zesty lime make each bite bursting with taste, while the melted Mexican cheese creates the ultimate comfort food. This recipe is quick to make, easy to customize, and ideal for lunch, dinner, or a fun appetizer.

Tips

• Chicken: For a more tender texture, you can marinate the chicken in lime juice and spices for an hour before cooking.
• Cheese: Use a Mexican blend cheese for the best melting consistency, but feel free to use cheddar or Monterey Jack.
• Crispy Tortillas: Adjust the heat as necessary to ensure the tortillas don’t burn but get a nice crispy texture.
• Keep Warm: If making multiple quesadillas, place them on a baking sheet in a warm oven (low heat) to keep them hot while cooking the others.

Variations and Substitutions

• Spicy: Add more hot sauce or extra jalapeño for an extra kick.
• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add black beans, corn, and extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms.
• Grilled Chicken: For an extra smoky flavor, grill the chicken instead of pan-searing it.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortillas for a gluten-free version of this recipe.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken or any pre-cooked chicken for convenience. Just heat it through and follow the recipe as instructed.

Can I freeze leftover quesadillas?

Yes, you can freeze quesadillas! Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet or oven when ready to eat.

Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the quesadillas right before serving. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but can be made a few hours ahead and kept warm.

Serving and Suggestions

• Sides: Serve your quesadillas with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for added flavor.
• Salad: Pair with a refreshing side salad or Mexican street corn for a complete meal.
• Drinks: Complement with a cold margarita or a spicy iced tea for a fun and festive touch.

These Chicken Quesadillas are sure to be a crowd-pleaser and make for an easy and delicious meal. Perfect for family dinners, game day, or any time you want a quick and tasty bite!