Green Chile Chicken Quesadillas

There’s something about a warm, cheesy quesadilla that just feels like home. The moment I bite into a Green Chile Chicken Quesadilla, I’m transported to cozy evenings spent with friends and family, gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter. This delightful dish combines the smoky heat of green chiles with tender, shredded chicken, all enveloped in golden, crispy tortillas. As a kid, my favorite part was always the first bite, where the melted cheese would stretch out just a bit too long, making me giggle as I tried to pull it away from the plate.

Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, Green Chile Chicken Quesadillas have a way of bringing people together. You can whip them up in no time, using leftover chicken or turkey, which means you can enjoy this dish even on those busy evenings when cooking feels like a chore. Plus, they’re customizable! Want them spicier? Add more chiles! Want them a bit creamier? Toss in extra cream cheese! The possibilities are endless.

I vividly remember the first time I made these quesadillas. I was trying to impress my friends with my cooking skills, and I was pleasantly surprised when they devoured every last bite. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible, and the best part? You don’t need to be a master chef to create this comforting meal. So grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

Green Chile Chicken Quesadillas Ingredients

When it comes to crafting Green Chile Chicken Quesadillas, the ingredients are simple yet essential for creating a satisfying meal. The combination of tender chicken, smoky green chiles, and creamy cheese melds together beautifully, making each quesadilla a flavor-packed experience. Let’s explore these key players that elevate this dish to comfort food status.

• 1/2 lb. leftover chicken or turkey, chopped
• 1 4 oz. can diced green chiles, drained
• 2 oz. cream cheese
• 8 Mission Carb Balance tortillas
• 1 cup grated mozzarella
• 2 tsp. olive oil for brushing the pan
• sour cream for serving (optional)
• salsa for serving (optional)

Instructions for Green Chile Chicken Quesadillas

Making Green Chile Chicken Quesadillas is a breeze, and you’ll love how easy it is to combine flavors and textures. Let’s walk through the steps together, ensuring each detail is covered for the perfect quesadilla.

1. Coarsely chop the leftover chicken or turkey and place it in a food processor. Pulse a few times until the poultry is shredded apart. If you don’t have a food processor, you can also chop and mix by hand to achieve a similar texture.
2. Add the drained green chiles and cream cheese to the processor. Pulse a few more times until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
3. Next, mist or brush a non-stick frying pan with olive oil and turn the heat to medium-low. This will ensure the tortillas get that lovely golden color.
4. Take one tortilla, and spread half of it with the chicken mixture. Make sure to cover it evenly for the best flavor in every bite.
5. Sprinkle a little bit of grated mozzarella over the filling. This extra touch of cheese adds a delightful stretchiness.
6. Using a turner, carefully fold the quesadilla in half and lay it gently in the frying pan. This helps to keep all the delicious filling inside.
7. Cook for about two minutes per side, or until the cheese is melted, and the outside of the tortilla is beautifully browned. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
8. Once cooked, remove the quesadilla from the pan and let it rest for a minute before slicing into wedges. This helps the cheese hold together better.
9. Serve hot with optional sour cream and salsa on the side. They add an extra layer of flavor that complements the quesadillas perfectly.

Recipe Variations about Green Chile Chicken Quesadillas

If you’re looking to mix things up, there are so many exciting variations to try with Green Chile Chicken Quesadillas. From swapping ingredients to changing cooking methods, let’s dive into some creative tips that will keep your culinary adventure alive!

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian option.
• Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling for an extra spicy flavor burst.
• Cheesy Goodness: Mix in different cheeses such as cheddar or pepper jack for a different taste and added creaminess.
• Flavor Enhancements: Add spices like cumin and paprika to the filling for an extra depth of flavor. They pair perfectly with the green chiles.
• Freezing for Later: Make a batch and freeze the uncooked quesadillas. Just cook them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of minutes to the cooking time for a quick meal.
• Serving Styles: Instead of wedges, cut the quesadillas into strips for fun finger food at gatherings or parties.

Side Dish Ideas for Green Chile Chicken Quesadillas

Pairing your Green Chile Chicken Quesadillas with the right side dishes can elevate your meal to a whole new level. Here are some delightful suggestions to complement this dish:

• Mexican Rice: A side of flavorful Mexican rice brings a hearty element to your meal and pairs beautifully with the quesadillas.
• Fresh Guacamole: Whip up some creamy guacamole for a fresh, zesty dip. The cool avocado flavor balances the warmth of the quesadillas wonderfully.
• Black Bean Salad: A refreshing black bean salad with corn, tomatoes, and a lime vinaigrette provides a burst of freshness and color on your plate.
• Chips and Salsa: Serve with crispy tortilla chips and your favorite salsa for a fun appetizer or snack before diving into the quesadillas.
• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled or roasted vegetables add a smoky flavor that complements the quesadillas and provides healthy options on the side.
• Seasonal Greens: A simple salad with seasonal greens and a light dressing adds a refreshing crunch that pairs nicely with the rich flavors of the quesadillas.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Green Chile Chicken Quesadillas are a delightful dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a kick of flavor from the green chiles. They are not only quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights, but they also bring a taste of comfort that everyone loves. I encourage you to try making them for your next meal – they’re sure to become a new favorite in your household!

Green Chile Chicken Quesadillas

The ultimate comfort food, Green Chile Chicken Quesadillas are creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering, these quesadillas are sure to satisfy any appetite. Try them tonight for a delicious meal that everyone will love!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1/2 lb. chicken or turkey
• 1 can diced green chiles
• 2 oz. cream cheese
• 8 tortillas Mission Carb Balance tortillas
• 1 cup grated mozzarella
• 2 tsp. olive oil
• sour cream for serving (optional)
• salsa for serving (optional)

Equipment

• Cutting Board
• Skillet
• Grater
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Frying pan
• Food Processor

Method

 

1. Coarsely chop the leftover chicken or turkey and place it in a food processor. Pulse a few times until the poultry is shredded apart. If you don’t have a food processor, you can also chop and mix by hand to achieve a similar texture.
2. Add the drained green chiles and cream cheese to the processor. Pulse a few more times until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
3. Next, mist or brush a non-stick frying pan with olive oil and turn the heat to medium-low. This will ensure the tortillas get that lovely golden color.
4. Take one tortilla, and spread half of it with the chicken mixture. Make sure to cover it evenly for the best flavor in every bite.
5. Sprinkle a little bit of grated mozzarella over the filling. This extra touch of cheese adds a delightful stretchiness.
6. Using a turner, carefully fold the quesadilla in half and lay it gently in the frying pan. This helps to keep all the delicious filling inside.
7. Cook for about two minutes per side, or until the cheese is melted, and the outside of the tortilla is beautifully browned. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
8. Once cooked, remove the quesadilla from the pan and let it rest for a minute before slicing into wedges. This helps the cheese hold together better.
9. Serve hot with optional sour cream and salsa on the side. They add an extra layer of flavor that complements the quesadillas perfectly.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze uncooked quesadillas. Just cook them straight from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.
• Pairing: Serve with fresh guacamole or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.
• Variation: Try adding different spices or vegetables to customize the flavor to your liking.
• Serving Tip: Slice into strips for easy sharing at parties!

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Meet Jenna Miller

I’m the one who brought this group together. I’ve always believed that food tastes better when it’s shared, and I wanted to create a space that felt as warm and sunny as our home state. I’m usually the one writing our posts and helping Brooke develop our main course recipes. My favorite days are when we’re all in the kitchen together, music on, cooking up our next idea.