Simple Chicken Quesadillas: Quick and Delicious Weeknight Treat
Enjoy Quick Simple Chicken Quesadillas with flavorful chicken, melty cheeses, and vibrant peppers, ready in just 20 minutes.
Equipment
- - Skillet
- small bowl
Ingredients
For the Spice Mix
- 1 tbsp Chili Powder Provides a smoky heat; substitute with taco seasoning for a different spice profile.
- 1 tsp Salt Enhances flavor; adjust to taste for your preference.
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder Adds aromatic flavor; fresh garlic can be used but may alter texture.
- 1 tsp Ground Cumin Offers earthy depth; omit if unavailable.
For the Filling
- 2 cups Cooked Chicken Main protein source; shredded or diced any leftover cooked chicken works well, including rotisserie.
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil For sautéing vegetables; can substitute with canola or vegetable oil.
- 1 medium Onion Adds sweetness and depth; yellow or white onions work beautifully.
- 1 cup Bell Peppers (Red & Green) Provide color, crunch, and sweetness; any color pepper can work for a vibrant mix.
- to taste Hot Sauce Adds optional heat to taste; adjust based on your spice preference.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Adds freshness and flavor; optional and can be omitted if you're not a fan.
For the Cheesy Layers
- 1 cup Pepper Jack Cheese Melts beautifully, adding creaminess and a bit of heat; use Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Provides a sharp contrast to the peppers; any creamy cheese can be used based on your liking.
For the Tortillas
- 4 large Whole Wheat Tortillas Holds the fillings well and provides fiber; regular flour or corn tortillas also work perfectly.
- 1 tbsp Oil for Cooking Necessary for a crispy tortilla; choose any neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil for best results.
Instructions
How to Make Simple Chicken Quesadillas
- In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, salt, garlic powder, and cumin. This fragrant blend will elevate your chicken and vegetables. Set aside half for later use.
- Take your cooked chicken and generously coat it with half of the spice mix you just prepared. This will infuse it with flavor, ensuring every bite is delicious.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and bell peppers along with the remaining spice mix. Sauté until tender and vibrant, about 6-8 minutes. If you like a little kick, swirl in some hot sauce and chopped cilantro before mixing with the chicken.
- On each whole wheat tortilla, sprinkle a layer of cheese, followed by the chicken-vegetable mixture, and then another layer of cheese. Fold the tortilla in half to secure the treasures inside.
- Heat a little oil in the same skillet and cook the quesadillas for about 4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Your cheese should be perfectly melted and oozing out if you peek inside!
- Allow the quesadillas to cool for a moment before slicing them into wedges. Serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream to complete this delectable meal.
Notes
Optional: Add some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick! Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.