Welcome to the best authentic chicken quesadilla recipe you’ll ever try! If you love vibrant Mexican flavors combined with tender chicken and gooey cheese, then you’re in the right place. Whether you’re a quesadilla connoisseur or a newbie looking to impress, this guide will help you create a perfect meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Introduction
Chicken quesadillas are a beloved Mexican dish that has found its way into the hearts (and stomachs) of people around the world. With its crispy tortillas filled with a savory combination of seasoned chicken, bell peppers, onions, and melted cheese, each bite is a fiesta of flavors. This authentic chicken quesadilla recipe is not just easy to make but also packed with traditional spices that give it a true Mexican taste. If you’re a fan of dishes like chicken fajitas or tacos, this quesadilla recipe will be your new go-to.
Want to explore more Mexican flavors? Check out this Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw Recipe for a perfect side!
Ingredients for Chicken Quesadilla Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious quesadillas:
- 1 pound chicken tenders or chicken breasts (thinly sliced)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt (divided)
- 1 red bell pepper (small dice)
- 1 white onion (small dice)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ¼ cup cilantro (chopped)
- 2 minced canned chipotle chilis plus 2 tablespoons of the adobo sauce
- ½ cup low-fat Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 lime
- 4 soft taco-size flour tortillas (whole wheat or white)
- 2 cups freshly shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Olive oil for frying
Optional Substitutions:
- Replace chicken with beef strips or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Use cheddar cheese instead of Monterey Jack for a sharper flavor.
- Substitute Greek yogurt with vegan yogurt for a dairy-free option.
How to Make Chicken Quesadilla – Step by Step
Step 1: Season the Chicken
In a large bowl, toss together the chicken with ½ teaspoon of salt and all the remaining spices until evenly combined.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat about 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through, about 6 minutes. Remove chicken to a clean bowl.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the peppers and onions and cook until softened and slightly browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add this mixture to the bowl with the chicken.
Step 4: Mix with Chipotle Peppers and Cilantro
Add the minced chipotle peppers, 1 tablespoon of adobo sauce, and chopped cilantro to the bowl. Mix until evenly combined.
Step 5: Prepare the Chipotle Greek Yogurt Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, juice of half a lime, ½ teaspoon of salt, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of the adobo sauce. Set aside.
Step 6: Assemble the Quesadillas
Evenly sprinkle ¼ cup of shredded cheese on the bottom half of each tortilla. Spread ¼ of the chicken and pepper mixture on top of the cheese, and then top with another ¼ cup of the cheese. Fold the top half over.
Step 7: Fry the Quesadillas
Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of oil to your hot skillet. Place the folded quesadilla in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until the outside is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove to a cutting board and let rest for 2 minutes. Cut into thirds and serve with extra chopped cilantro and the chipotle Greek yogurt sauce.
Helpful Tips for Chicken Quesadilla Recipe
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions, bell peppers, and cilantro will enhance the flavor of the quesadilla.
- Preheat the Pan: Ensure the skillet is hot before placing the quesadilla to achieve a perfectly crispy exterior.
- Cheese Choices: While Monterey Jack is recommended, a mix of cheddar and mozzarella can also give a deliciously gooey texture.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Quesadilla Recipe
- Marinate the Chicken: If you have time, marinate the chicken in the spice blend for at least 30 minutes for more intense flavor.
- Don’t Overstuff: Overstuffing the quesadilla can make it hard to flip. Keep the filling moderate.
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: A cast-iron skillet distributes heat evenly, ensuring the quesadilla is cooked to perfection.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Quesadilla Recipe
Pair your chicken quesadilla with:
- Mexican Street Corn Salad
- Refried Beans
- Guacamole and Salsa
- Lemonade or a Margarita
For a full meal, serve it alongside this Louisiana Voodoo Fries Recipe.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 320
- Fats: 12g
- Carbs: 28g
- Proteins: 26g
- Vitamins: High in Vitamin C and Iron
Storage and Leftovers for Chicken Quesadilla Recipe
- Storing: Keep the quesadilla in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side to retain the crispy texture.
- Freezing: Wrap the cooked quesadillas in aluminum foil and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Chicken Quesadilla Recipe
Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, any melty cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or a Mexican cheese blend works well.
Q2: Can I make these quesadillas gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free tortillas, and you’re set.
Q3: What can I serve with chicken quesadillas?
Serve with salsas, guacamole, and a side of rice for a complete meal.
Q4: Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the filling up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
Related Recipes for Chicken Lovers
Conclusion
There you have it! The best authentic chicken quesadilla recipe that’s not only delicious but easy to prepare. We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do. Let us know in the comments your favorite variations or share a picture of your culinary creation!
Ready to explore more? Check out our guide on Baked Chicken Chimichangas for another Mexican favorite.
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Chicken Quesadilla Recipe – Authentic, Easy, & Delicious
Description
Welcome to the best authentic chicken quesadilla recipe you’ll ever try! If you love vibrant Mexican flavors combined with tender chicken and gooey cheese, then you’re in the right place. Whether you’re a quesadilla connoisseur or a newbie looking to impress, this guide will help you create a perfect meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders or chicken breasts (thinly sliced)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt (divided)
- 1 red bell pepper (small dice)
- 1 white onion (small dice)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ¼ cup cilantro (chopped)
- 2 minced canned chipotle chilis plus 2 tablespoons of the adobo sauce
- ½ cup low-fat Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 lime
- 4 soft taco-size flour tortillas (whole wheat or white)
- 2 cups freshly shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Olive oil for frying
Optional Substitutions:
- Replace chicken with beef strips or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Use cheddar cheese instead of Monterey Jack for a sharper flavor.
- Substitute Greek yogurt with vegan yogurt for a dairy-free option.
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
In a large bowl, toss together the chicken with ½ teaspoon of salt and all the remaining spices until evenly combined.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat about 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through, about 6 minutes. Remove chicken to a clean bowl.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the peppers and onions and cook until softened and slightly browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add this mixture to the bowl with the chicken.
Step 4: Mix with Chipotle Peppers and Cilantro
Add the minced chipotle peppers, 1 tablespoon of adobo sauce, and chopped cilantro to the bowl. Mix until evenly combined.
Step 5: Prepare the Chipotle Greek Yogurt Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, juice of half a lime, ½ teaspoon of salt, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of the adobo sauce. Set aside.
Step 6: Assemble the Quesadillas
Evenly sprinkle ¼ cup of shredded cheese on the bottom half of each tortilla. Spread ¼ of the chicken and pepper mixture on top of the cheese, and then top with another ¼ cup of the cheese. Fold the top half over.
Step 7: Fry the Quesadillas
Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of oil to your hot skillet. Place the folded quesadilla in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until the outside is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove to a cutting board and let rest for 2 minutes. Cut into thirds and serve with extra chopped cilantro and the chipotle Greek yogurt sauce.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions, bell peppers, and cilantro will enhance the flavor of the quesadilla.
- Preheat the Pan: Ensure the skillet is hot before placing the quesadilla to achieve a perfectly crispy exterior.
- Cheese Choices: While Monterey Jack is recommended, a mix of cheddar and mozzarella can also give a deliciously gooey texture.
