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–+ servings
A chicken quesadilla on a white plate with a glass next to it.
Kate Ramos

Authentic Mexican Chicken Quesadilla Recipe

Whenever I'm craving something cheesy, crispy, and satisfying, I make this authentic Mexican chicken quesadilla recipe. It's simple, packed with flavor, and comes together fast enough for even the busiest weeknight.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Mexican Classics
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Seasoned Chicken
Filling
  • ½ white onion thinly sliced (or red onion)
  • 1 red yellow or orange bell pepper, cored, seeded, and thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 2 green onions sliced
  • ½ cup canned black beans drained and rinsed (optional)
Quesadillas

Method
 

  1. Season and Cook the Chicken. Toss the 1 1/2 pounds bite-sized chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons lime juice. Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook 5–6 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables. In the same skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the 1/2 sliced onion and 1 sliced bell pepper and cook 4–5 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized. Remove from heat and add the cooked chicken, 2 sliced green onions, and 1/2 cup drained black beans (if using).
  3. Assemble the Quesadillas. Heat a clean large skillet or frying pan over medium heat and lightly coat with cooking spray or a small amount of oil. Place one flour tortilla flat in the skillet. Spread a generous layer of cheese over half of the tortilla, then add a scoop of the chicken mixture on top of the cheese. Fold the empty side of the tortilla over the filling to close.
  4. Cook Until Golden. Cook 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese melts completely. Repeat with remaining tortillas, wiping the skillet between batches if needed.
  5. Slice and Serve. Transfer the cooked quesadillas to a cutting board and use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut each into 3 wedges. Serve immediately with sour cream, salsa, and hot sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 20gFat: 19gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 13gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 493mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2g

Notes

  1. Chicken swap: Rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken works great — skip Steps 1 and simply toss the meat with the seasonings in the pan before assembling.
  2. Tortilla choice: Flour tortillas give the crispiest result. Corn tortillas offer a gluten-free option but are smaller and more delicate — use two per quesadilla as a top and bottom tortilla.
  3. Cheese: Chihuahua cheese is the most authentic choice for gooey, melty cheese pull. Monterey Jack is the best substitute; pepper jack adds heat.
  4. Sheet pan method: Assemble all quesadillas on a baking sheet, brush with oil, and bake at 425°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping once, if cooking for a crowd.
  5. Storage: Store cooked quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot skillet (no oil needed) to restore crispiness — avoid the microwave.

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