Description
This Family Favorite Chicken Quesadilla recipe delivers a perfect blend of seasoned shredded chicken, melted cheese, and sautéed vegetables wrapped in crispy flour tortillas. Cooked on the stovetop to golden perfection, these quesadillas offer a deliciously crispy exterior with a melty, flavorful interior. Easy to prepare and packed with authentic Mexican flavors, they make a fantastic meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Quesadilla Ingredients
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded (rotisserie recommended for convenience)
- 1½ cups Mexican cheese blend, shredded
- ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 medium bell pepper, diced (any color)
- ½ medium red onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Season Your Chicken Right: Combine the shredded cooked chicken with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the seasoning blend, enhancing the flavor throughout.
- Prep Your Vegetables Perfect: Dice the bell pepper and finely chop the red onion into uniform ¼-inch pieces. This consistency helps them cook evenly and blend harmoniously inside the quesadilla.
- Build Your Quesadillas Smart: Lay one flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread half of the Mexican cheese blend evenly across one half of the tortilla. Layer the seasoned chicken on top, then the diced vegetables, followed by the Monterey Jack cheese, and finish with the remaining Mexican cheese. Fold the tortilla over to form a half-moon shape.
- Cook to Golden Perfection: Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the folded quesadilla in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese inside has completely melted. Maintain medium heat to avoid burning and to achieve perfect crispiness.
- Rest Before Cutting: Transfer the cooked quesadilla to a plate and let it rest for 2-3 minutes. This rest time allows the cheese to set slightly, preventing the filling from spilling out when sliced.
- Slice and Serve Hot: Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the quesadilla into triangular wedges. Serve immediately while the cheese is hot and gooey, garnished with fresh cilantro alongside sour cream, guacamole, and salsa for a restaurant-quality presentation.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds convenience without sacrificing flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning quantities to taste, especially if you prefer more or less spice.
- Ensure the skillet is at medium heat to avoid burning the tortilla before the cheese melts.
- Letting the quesadilla rest after cooking is key to neat, clean slices.
- Serve with fresh sides such as guacamole, salsa, or sour cream for enhanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Keywords: chicken quesadilla, Mexican chicken quesadilla, easy quesadilla recipe, stovetop quesadilla, cheesy chicken quesadilla, family meal, quick Mexican dinner
