If you’re craving a quick, cheesy, and flavorful meal, nothing hits the spot like a chicken quesadilla. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a snack, this recipe combines tender chicken, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas for a crowd-pleasing dish you can make in under 30 minutes.
Here’s a step-by-step chicken quesadilla recipe that’s simple, tasty, and totally customizable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Filling:
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
½ cup bell peppers, thinly sliced
½ cup onion, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Quesadilla:
4 large flour tortillas
Optional: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or hot sauce for serving
Step-by-Step Chicken Quesadilla Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Veggies
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat
Sauté onions and bell peppers for 3–4 minutes until softened
Add chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine
Step 2: Add Chicken
Mix shredded chicken into the veggies
Heat until warmed through (2–3 minutes)
Remove from skillet and set aside
Step 3: Assemble the Quesadilla
Place a tortilla on a flat surface
Sprinkle half the cheese evenly over one side
Spread the chicken and veggie mixture on top
Sprinkle remaining cheese over the filling
Fold the tortilla in half
Step 4: Cook the Quesadilla
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat
Place the folded quesadilla in the skillet
Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cheese is melted
Repeat with remaining tortillas
Step 5: Serve
Slice each quesadilla into 3–4 wedges
Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa on the side
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Quesadilla
Use rotisserie chicken for a super quick version
Mix cheeses for extra gooey texture and flavor
Avoid overfilling to prevent the quesadilla from breaking
Low to medium heat ensures crispy tortilla without burning
Variations You Can Try
1. Spicy Chicken Quesadilla
Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the filling
2. BBQ Chicken Quesadilla
Mix shredded chicken with 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce for a smoky twist
3. Veggie-Packed Quesadilla
Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a hearty vegetarian-friendly option
4. Breakfast Quesadilla
Add scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage for a morning treat
Quick Serving Ideas
Pair with fresh salsa or pico de gallo
Add a side of Mexican rice or black beans
Sprinkle with fresh cilantro or lime juice for extra zing
Final Thoughts
This chicken quesadilla recipe is quick, versatile, and delicious every time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, it’s a guaranteed hit. With tender chicken, melty cheese, and perfectly crispy tortillas, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make them sooner.