Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas! Filled with a savory blend of mozzarella and cheddar, tender shredded chicken, and a touch of garlic, these quesadillas are packed with flavor in every bite. They’re perfect for a quick lunch, an easy dinner, or even as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Simple to prepare and made with just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is both satisfying and versatile. Serve with sour cream, chopped parsley, or your favorite salsa for a complete meal that’s sure to be a hit.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie works great!)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then mix well.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
- In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat and stir the garlic butter into the chicken and cheese mixture.
Step 3: Assemble the Quesadillas
- Lay a tortilla on a flat surface and spread about half of the chicken mixture evenly over one half of the tortilla.
- Fold the tortilla in half, pressing gently to secure the filling.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Step 4: Cook the Quesadillas
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with a little butter or cooking spray.
- Place a quesadilla in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Repeat with the other quesadillas, adding more butter if needed.
Step 5: Serve
- Cut each quesadilla into wedges and serve with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of parsley, or salsa if desired.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per quesadilla)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Try pepper jack for a spicy kick or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
Q: Can I make these quesadillas without butter?
A: Yes, you can use cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil if you prefer a lighter option.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
A: Feel free to add diced bell peppers, onions, or even black beans for extra flavor and texture.
Tips for Making the Perfect Cheesy Chicken Quesadilla
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: It’s a time-saving shortcut, as it’s already seasoned and tender, making it ideal for quesadillas.
- Shred the Cheese Fresh: Pre-shredded cheese can be convenient, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and has a smoother consistency.
- Don’t Overfill the Quesadilla: Too much filling can make it hard to flip and may cause the cheese to spill out.
- Cook on Medium Heat: Cooking the quesadillas on medium heat ensures a crispy exterior without burning before the cheese fully melts.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through for the best texture. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 30 seconds, though they may lose some crispness.
- Freezing: You can freeze assembled quesadillas before cooking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To cook, thaw slightly and heat in a skillet.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas are a delicious, easy-to-make meal that’s versatile enough for any occasion. With their golden, crispy exterior and gooey, cheesy filling, they deliver satisfying flavors and textures with minimal effort. Using ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, this recipe provides a quick way to enjoy a meal that’s comforting, filling, and incredibly tasty.
What makes this recipe especially appealing is its adaptability. Whether you’re adding extra veggies, using a different cheese, or adjusting the seasonings, there’s room to make this dish uniquely yours. Plus, they’re perfect for meal prep—make a batch, refrigerate or freeze them, and have a ready-to-go meal whenever you need it.
For an extra layer of flavor, you can pair these quesadillas with salsa, guacamole, or even a fresh pico de gallo. The combination of melted cheese, savory chicken, and hints of garlic makes each bite irresistible. And with a dollop of sour cream on the side, it’s an easy way to create a satisfying meal or snack that will impress friends and family alike.
These quesadillas bring together simplicity and taste in a way that’s both practical and indulgent. Whether you’re whipping up a quick lunch, enjoying a cozy dinner, or serving a fun appetizer at a party, Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. So, grab those tortillas, fire up your skillet, and enjoy this delicious treat!