Authentic Chicken Quesadilla – the name itself brings up images of a crowd-pleasing appetizer that bursts with flavor. These delicious treats are the ultimate choice for filling up a hungry crowd. With their tender chicken, melty cheese, and colorful vegetables tucked inside a crispy tortilla, they are sure to impress guests at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party, game night, or simply craving a savory snack, these authentic chicken quesadillas are the answer. Their versatility allows for endless customization, adding toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and salsa to create a personalized taste experience.

Why this recipe works

When it comes to Mexican food, authenticity is key. This Chicken quesadilla recipe captures the essence of traditional Mexican flavors while offering a simple and convenient preparation method. By using boneless, skinless chicken breasts and a medley of fresh vegetables, we ensure a tender and flavorful filling. The combination of spices adds depth and warmth to every bite, making these quesadillas a delightful comfort food option. With easy-to-find ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up a batch of these cheesy chicken quesadillas.

What is Chicken Quesadilla

Chicken quesadillas are a classic Mexican dish consisting of a tortilla filled with a savory mixture of chicken, vegetables, and melted Cheese. The tortillas are cooked until golden brown, resulting in a crispy exterior and a gooey, melty interior. This versatile dish can be enjoyed as an appetizer, a main course, or even a snack. With endless possibilities for customization, you can add your favorite toppings and accompaniments to create a personalized flavor experience.

Best ingredients for Authentic Chicken Quesadilla

• Chicken breasts: Chicken is the star of this recipe so make sure to use high-quality breasts. They provide a delicious protein base for the quesadilla filling. To ensure moist and flavorful chicken, season it with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Red bell pepper: Diced red bell peppers add vibrant color and a subtle sweetness to the quesadilla filling. They complement the flavors of the chicken and provide a refreshing crunch. Feel free to use other bell pepper colors for variation.
• Onion: Diced onion adds aromatic flavor and depth to the filling. It caramelizes beautifully while sautéing, enhancing the overall taste of the quesadillas. Red onion can be used as an alternative.
• Corn kernels: Sweet corn kernels, whether fresh or frozen, contribute a burst of freshness and a pleasant pop of texture. They bring a touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements of the quesadillas.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds a delightful aroma and subtle pungency to the dish. It infuses the chicken and vegetables with a rich, savory flavor that enhances the overall taste profile.
• Ground cumin and chili powder: These two spices are essential for achieving the authentic Mexican flavor in the quesadillas. Ground cumin provides earthiness and warmth, while chili powder adds a mild heat and complexity to the filling.
• Flour tortillas: Soft and pliable, flour tortillas serve as the perfect vehicle to encase the flavorful filling. They create a delicate and slightly chewy texture that contrasts with the crispy exterior when cooked. Use corn tortillas as an alternative.
• Shredded cheese: A crucial ingredient for creating the ooey-gooey deliciousness of the quesadillas, shredded cheese melts and binds the filling together. Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese are popular choices for a quesadilla filling.

How to make Chicken Quesadillas

Please note: This is just an overview – the full ingredients and directions are in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Step 1: Cook the chicken. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the diced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken in the skillet for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the vegetables. In the same skillet, add the diced onion, red bell pepper, corn kernels, and minced garlic. Sauté the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened and slightly caramelized.

Step 3: Combine chicken and vegetables. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of ground cumin and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Season with additional salt and black pepper if desired.

Step 4: Prepare the tortillas. Wipe the skillet clean and return it to medium-low heat. Place one flour tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese over it. Spoon a portion of the chicken and vegetable mixture on top of the cheese. Add another layer of cheese and cover with another tortilla.

Step 5: Cook the quesadilla. Press down gently with a spatula to seal the quesadilla. Cook the quesadilla for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until the tortillas turn golden brown and the cheese melts to perfection.

Step 6: Repeat and serve. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling, creating a batch of delicious quesadillas. Transfer the cooked quesadillas to a cutting board and let them cool for a minute. Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve them warm.

Serve this authentic chicken quesadilla with your choice of toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and chopped cilantro. Enjoy!

Storing and freezing tips

If you happen to have any leftover quesadillas, fear not! They can be stored for later enjoyment. Simply place the cooled quesadillas in an airtight container and refrigerate them. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat them in a skillet or oven until heated through.

For long-term storage, you can freeze the quesadillas. Wrap each quesadilla individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then heat them in a skillet or oven until warmed to perfection.

Top tips for the best Chicken Quesadillas

• Season your chicken: Don’t forget to season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before cooking. This step ensures a flavorful filling.
• Cheese matters: Use a combination of cheeses like Monterey Jack and cheddar for the perfect melty texture and flavor. Feel free to experiment with other types of cheese as well, like mozzarella cheese.
• Heat control: Cooking the quesadillas over medium-low heat allows the cheese to melt slowly while ensuring the tortillas turn golden brown without burning.
• Pre-shredded chicken: Save time by using pre-shredded chicken, such as leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken. It adds convenience without compromising flavor.
• Get creative: While this recipe is delicious as is, don’t be afraid to add your own twist. You can incorporate additional ingredients like black beans, diced tomatoes, or even a squeeze of lime juice to elevate the flavors.

Serving suggestions

These authentic chicken quesadilla is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are a few serving suggestions to inspire your culinary creativity:

• Top them off: Serve your quesadillas with a dollop of sour cream, a scoop of guacamole, a spoonful of salsa, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. These toppings complement the rich flavors of the quesadillas.
• Side it up: Pair your quesadillas with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
• Heat things up: For those who crave a bit of heat, serve your quesadillas with your favorite hot sauce or salsa.

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Polish version of this recipe available here.

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