Description

A warm, crispy quesadilla stuffed with tender chicken, sautéed peppers, and gooey melted cheese is the perfect comfort meal. Quick to make and packed with flavor, these Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas are ideal for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or even a fun snack. Inspired by classic Mexican street food, this recipe brings restaurant-quality quesadillas right into your kitchen with simple ingredients and easy steps.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 small red bell pepper, diced
1 small green bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
4 large flour tortillas (8–10 inch)
1 tablespoon butter or oil (for toasting)
Sour cream, fresh salsa, guacamole, and chopped cilantro (optional, for serving)

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell peppers and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until fragrant.
Add the cooked chicken and toss to coat evenly with the spice and vegetable mixture. Cook for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat.
Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle a thin layer of cheese on half of the tortilla.
Spoon about ¼ of the chicken mixture over the cheese, then add another layer of cheese on top. Fold the tortilla in half to cover the filling. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and brush lightly with butter or oil.
Place one quesadilla in the pan and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Transfer to a cutting board and let cool slightly, then slice into wedges. Repeat with remaining quesadillas.
Serve warm with sour cream, salsa, guacamole, and garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
Mix cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Add extra vegetables like corn, spinach, or mushrooms for variety.
Brush the tortillas with melted butter for a crispier finish.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months; reheat in a skillet or oven for best results.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes