Ingredients (For 6 Quesadillas)

• Flour tortillas: 6 large
• Chicken: 1 lb (450g), ground, shredded, or finely chopped
• Tomato purée: 1/2 cup
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic: 5 cloves, minced (or to taste)
• Pickled jalapeños: 3 tbsp, chopped
• Paprika: 1 tbsp (sweet or smoked)
• Cumin powder: 1/2 tsp
• Dried oregano: 1/2 tbsp
• Salt: 1/4 tsp (or to taste)
• Olive oil: as needed for cooking
• Cilantro: 2 tbsp, finely chopped
• Grated cheese: 3 cups (300g) (cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, pepper jack, Oaxaca, or queso quesadilla)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling

1. Heat the oil: In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook the onions and garlic: Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Cook the chicken: Add the chicken to the pan. If you’re using ground chicken, break it up with a spatula as it cooks. If using shredded or chopped chicken, stir occasionally. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked through, around 6-8 minutes.
4. Add the seasoning and sauce: Stir in the tomato purée, chopped pickled jalapeños, paprika, cumin powder, dried oregano, and salt. Mix everything well, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.
5. Simmer: Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to combine the flavors and thicken slightly. Stir occasionally.
6. Add cilantro: Once the chicken mixture is done, remove it from the heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. Set aside the filling while you prepare the tortillas.

Step 2: Assemble the Quesadillas

1. Heat the skillet: Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with a little olive oil.
2. Build the quesadilla: Place one tortilla on the skillet. Sprinkle a generous amount of grated cheese evenly over half of the tortilla. Then, spread a portion of the chicken mixture over the cheese. Sprinkle a little more cheese on top for an extra cheesy quesadilla.
3. Fold the tortilla: Fold the tortilla over the filling, pressing gently with a spatula to help it stay folded.

Step 3: Cook the Quesadillas

1. Cook each side: Cook each quesadilla for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is fully melted. Use a spatula to flip the quesadilla carefully, ensuring it doesn’t spill.
2. Repeat the process: Continue assembling and cooking the remaining quesadillas.

Step 4: Serve

1. Slice and serve: Once cooked, transfer each quesadilla to a cutting board and slice it into wedges using a pizza cutter or sharp knife.
2. Optional toppings: Serve the quesadillas with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or any of your favorite toppings for added flavor.
3. Enjoy: These chicken quesadillas are best served hot and fresh.

Cooking Tips

• Make it your own: Feel free to experiment with the cheeses. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, and pepper jack are all great options. You can even combine them for more flavor.
• Adjust the spice: If you prefer spicier quesadillas, add more pickled jalapeños or chili powder. For a milder version, you can skip the jalapeños entirely.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking the quesadillas, make sure to give them enough space in the skillet so they cook evenly. Cooking them one at a time works best.
• Use high-quality tortillas: Fresh, high-quality flour tortillas will make a big difference in the texture and flavor of the quesadillas.

Nutritional Facts (Per Quesadilla)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 32 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg
• Sodium: 900 mg
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Calcium: 300 mg
• Iron: 2.5 mg

FAQs

1. Can I make the filling ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the chicken filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it before assembling the quesadillas.
2. What can I serve with chicken quesadillas?
   • Chicken quesadillas are delicious with sides like guacamole, salsa, sour cream, or even a fresh salad. You can also serve them with rice or beans for a more filling meal.
3. Can I freeze quesadillas?
   • Yes! You can freeze assembled but uncooked quesadillas. Lay them flat in a freezer bag and store them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, cook them directly from frozen in a pan.
4. How do I reheat leftover quesadillas?
   • To reheat quesadillas and keep them crispy, use a skillet or oven. Heat them on the stovetop for 1-2 minutes on each side or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until heated through.
5. What can I substitute for chicken?
   • You can use ground beef, shredded beef, pork, or even tofu as a substitute for chicken. Adjust the seasonings according to your preference.

Conclusion

Chicken quesadillas are a delicious and easy meal that you can whip up in no time. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a casual dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of tender chicken, gooey melted cheese, and crispy tortillas is irresistible. Plus, with the flexibility to customize the fillings and cheeses to your liking, these quesadillas are perfect for any occasion.

Not only are they great for quick dinners, but you can also prepare the filling ahead of time, making them ideal for meal prep. Paired with a fresh side of guacamole or sour cream, these quesadillas are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy this flavorful dish and make it your own by experimenting with different fillings and toppings!