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Golden chicken quesadillas sliced into triangles, garnished with fresh cilantro, served with guacamole, sour cream, and salsa on the side.

Chicken Quesadillas


  • Author: Aneta
  • Total Time: 25 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This easy chicken quesadilla recipe is packed with bold Mexican flavors, featuring tender shredded chicken, sautéed peppers, gooey melted cheese, and warm flour tortillas. It’s the perfect quick dinner or snack option, customizable to suit your spice preferences, and great for the whole family. Serve with guacamole, salsa, and sour cream for a restaurant-worthy meal at home.


Ingredients

Scale

For the chicken filling:

  • 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 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/3 cup salsa (mild, medium, or spicy based on preference)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

For the quesadillas:

  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a mix)
  • Butter or cooking spray, for cooking

Optional toppings:

  • Sour cream
  • Guacamole
  • Salsa
  • Fresh lime wedges

Instructions

  • Prepare the chicken filling:
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Toss in the diced red and green bell peppers and cook for another 2 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  • Season the filling:
    Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, followed by the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the chicken in the spices. Pour in the salsa and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the mixture to heat through and slightly thicken. Remove from heat and stir in the cilantro, if desired.

  • Assemble the quesadillas:
    Lay a flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of shredded cheese over half of the tortilla. Spoon a generous portion of the chicken filling over the cheese, then top with another 1/4 cup of cheese. Fold the tortilla in half to form a half-moon shape. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

  • Cook the quesadillas:
    Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with butter or cooking spray. Place one folded quesadilla onto the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully with a spatula and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side. Remove and repeat with the remaining quesadillas.

  • Serve and enjoy:
    Cut each quesadilla into thirds or quarters and serve immediately with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and lime wedges on the side.

Notes

  • You can make this recipe spicier by using hot salsa or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken filling.
  • For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for black beans, grilled veggies, or plant-based chicken alternatives.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet for the best texture.
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 10 mins
  • Category: breakfast
  • Method: Sauté and Griddleg
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 quesadilla
  • Calories: 400 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 540 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 65 mg

Keywords: chicken quesadillas, easy quesadilla recipe, Mexican recipes, cheesy quesadillas