Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 quesadillas
Looking for the perfect quick and tasty meal? These Chicken Quesadillas are the answer! With tender chicken, melted cheese, and a crispy tortilla, this recipe delivers all the flavors you love in one satisfying bite. Whether you’re preparing lunch, dinner, or a late-night snack, these quesadillas are sure to become a family favorite. Plus, they’re so easy to make!
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican cheese blend)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for dipping (optional)
Step-by-Step Preparation:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown on the outside. Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding it into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
2. Prepare the Quesadilla Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, and chopped cilantro (if using). You can also add in the thinly sliced onion and bell pepper for extra flavor and crunch.
3. Assemble the Quesadillas:
Place a tortilla in a clean, lightly greased skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle a little of the cheese mixture on one side of the tortilla, then top with another tortilla. Cook for 2-3 minutes, pressing down gently with a spatula, until the bottom tortilla is golden and crispy. Flip the quesadilla and cook for another 2-3 minutes until both sides are crispy and the cheese has fully melted.
4. Serve & Enjoy:
Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it rest for a minute before cutting it into wedges. Serve with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole on the side for dipping.
Tips for the Best Chicken Quesadillas:
- Customize your filling: Feel free to add extra toppings such as diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or black beans to make your quesadilla even more flavorful.
- Make it spicy: If you like some heat, add sliced fresh jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to your quesadilla before serving.
- Keep it crispy: Use medium heat to cook your quesadillas. Too high, and they may burn before the cheese melts; too low, and they might turn soggy.
These Chicken Quesadillas are simple to make, incredibly satisfying, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, they’re the perfect go-to meal. Enjoy them as a quick lunch, dinner, or even a party snack – everyone will love them!