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how to make chicken quesadilla

Chicken Quesadillas

Before diving into the heart of this chicken quesadilla journey, it’s essential to explore what delightful side dishes can complement this savory creation. Pairing is key
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless chicken breast diced into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil ideally olive or avocado
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1/2 large bell pepper chopped (feel free to choose your favorite color)
  • 6 soft flour tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
  • 1 tablespoon taco spice blend
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

Equipment

  • skillet

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
  1. Heat the cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, taco spice blend, and smoked paprika. Sauté until the chicken is cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking and to get all those spices mixed in well.
Step 2: Cook the Bell Pepper
  1. Once the chicken is fully cooked, add the chopped bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the peppers become tender but still retain some crunch. It's all about flavor and texture here!
Step 3: Assemble the Quesadillas
  1. Now, it's assembly time! On a clean surface, lay out a tortilla. Spoon a portion of the chicken and pepper mixture onto one half of the tortilla. Top that with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese and some fresh cilantro. Fold the tortilla in half, pressing gently to keep everything inside.
Step 4: Cook the Quesadilla
  1. In the same skillet, melt a tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once it's bubbling, place the folded tortilla in the skillet. Cook until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt, around 3-4 minutes. Flip it carefully and cook the other side until it's also golden brown.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
  1. Once both sides are perfectly crispy and cheesy, remove the quesadilla from the skillet. Let it rest for a minute, then slice it into wedges. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 16gFiber: 2g

Notes

  • Use quality cheese: A blend of different cheeses elevates your quesadilla. Taco cheese or Monterey Jack adds layers of flavor.
  • Don’t overfill: It’s tempting to pile on the ingredients, but moderation is key for a perfect flip and golden crisp.
  • Experiment with spices: Try adding chili flakes or cumin for an extra kick!
  • Use leftover chicken: If you have cooked chicken on hand, feel free to use it to save time!
  • Keep it crisp: After cooking, avoid stacking the quesadillas on top of each other too soon. Let them cool on a rack to maintain that crispiness.

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