Healthy Chicken Quesadilla

When I think of comfort food, the first thing that comes to mind is a delicious Healthy Chicken Quesadilla. Picture this: it’s a cozy weeknight, and I’m craving something both satisfying and wholesome. I crave that perfect balance of crispy and gooey, and what better way to achieve that than by whipping up some quesadillas? They’re not just easy to make; they’re customizable too! I love loading them up with fresh ingredients, making each bite a burst of flavor. Plus, the aroma that fills my kitchen while the quesadillas are cooking is simply irresistible. It instantly brings back memories of family dinners, laughter, and the joy of sharing good food. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a fun dinner with friends, these Healthy Chicken Quesadillas are always a hit. So, let’s dive into this delicious dish that brings warmth and joy to the table.

Ingredients Required for Healthy Chicken Quesadilla

Using high-quality ingredients is essential for crafting the perfect Healthy Chicken Quesadilla. The combination of lean chicken, creamy cheddar cheese, and flavorful BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering experience. Each ingredient plays a role in enhancing the final dish, ensuring it’s both delicious and satisfying.

• 1 cup chicken breast, shredded (about 1 small breast): This lean protein is the star of the show, delivering essential nutrients and a satisfying bite.
• Avocado oil spray: A healthy alternative to traditional cooking oils, it keeps the quesadillas crispy and golden.
• 2 cups liquid egg whites: These act as our tortilla base, providing a light and fluffy texture while being low in calories.
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce of choice: This adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
• 2/3 cup cheddar cheese, grated: For that melty, gooey goodness that makes every bite irresistible.
• 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped: Fresh herbs elevate the dish with a burst of flavor and color, making it even more appealing.

Recipe Directions for Healthy Chicken Quesadilla

Making Healthy Chicken Quesadilla is a delightful process that brings together all of these amazing ingredients. Let’s get started with creating this delicious dish together!

1. Begin by bringing a small pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chicken breast and cook until it’s no longer pink inside, which should take about 10 to 15 minutes. Once done, set it aside to cool slightly.
2. Preheat your broiler to HIGH and adjust the oven rack to the second from the top position. Prepare a baking sheet by spraying it with avocado oil spray and set it aside for later.
3. In a small pan, spray some avocado oil and set the heat to HIGH. Once hot, reduce the heat to LOW and pour in half a cup of liquid egg whites. Allow it to cook until fully set, which should take around 5 minutes. Gently remove this “tortilla” and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process until you’ve cooked all the egg whites and have a total of four tortillas.
4. In a bowl, use two forks to shred the cooked chicken breast. Pour in the BBQ sauce and mix well until the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce.
5. Evenly divide the chicken mixture between two of the egg white tortillas. Follow up by adding cheddar cheese and cilantro onto each tortilla. Finally, cover these filled tortillas with the remaining two.
6. Spray the tops of the assembled quesadillas with more avocado oil spray. This will help them turn crispy and golden when broiled.
7. Place the baking sheet under the broiler for about 15 minutes, or until the tops are lightly browned and crispy. Keep a close eye to avoid burning!
8. Once they’re done, let them cool for a moment before cutting. Trust me, the waiting will make them taste even better.
9. Finally, serve your Healthy Chicken Quesadillas warm, along with your favorite dipping sauces, and get ready to devour every last bite!

Substitutions and Tips

If you’re looking to elevate your cooking game or simply want some handy tips for making the best Healthy Chicken Quesadilla, here are some suggestions:

• Storage: After cooking, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days to keep them fresh.
• Freezing: You can also freeze the cooked quesadillas. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in foil or freezer-safe plastic wrap.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of fresh salsa or a mixed green salad for a refreshing contrast to the cheesy quesadillas.
• Variations: Try adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Serving suggestion: These quesadillas work great as a main dish for lunch or dinner but can also be sliced into smaller pieces for a fun appetizer at gatherings.

What Complements This Healthy Chicken Quesadilla

Looking to create the perfect meal around your Healthy Chicken Quesadilla? Here are some ideas:

• Fresh Salsa: A zesty salsa adds a delightful contrast to the flavors and makes a refreshing side dish.
• Guacamole: The creaminess of guacamole complements the crispy quesadillas beautifully.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs well, adding freshness to your meal.
• Rice or Quinoa: Adding a side of seasoned rice or quinoa can make the meal even heartier.
• Perfect for Parties: Cut them into smaller pieces to serve as finger food at gatherings or casual get-togethers.
• Weeknight Dinner: These quesadillas are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner when you want something tasty but easy to prepare.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Healthy Chicken Quesadilla is a delicious blend of flavors and textures that makes it a standout dish for any occasion. It’s simple to prepare, nutritious, and can be customized to your tastes. I encourage you to try making this recipe at home; it might just become your new favorite go-to meal!

Healthy Chicken Quesadilla

The ultimate comfort food, Healthy Chicken Quesadilla combines crispy egg white tortillas with tender chicken and melty cheese for a deliciously satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy recipe is customizable and so flavorful. Make it tonight for a quick and wholesome dinner option!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 2 quesadillas

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup chicken breast shredded (about 1 small breast)
• 1 spray avocado oil for cooking
• 2 cups liquid egg whites
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce of choice plus additional for drizzling (low-carb, if desired)
• 2/3 cup cheddar cheese grated
• 2 tablespoons cilantro chopped

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Grater
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Frying pan

Method

 

1. Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil, and cook the chicken breast until no longer pink inside, about 10-15 minutes. Set aside.
2. Preheat your broiler to HIGH, and adjust your oven rack to the 2nd from the top placement. Spray a baking sheet with avocado oil. Set aside.
3. Spray some avocado oil in a small pan and set the heat to HIGH. Once hot, turn the heat back down to LOW and add ½ cup of liquid egg whites to the pan. Allow it to cook until set, about 5 minutes, and then remove the "tortilla" and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the rest of the egg whites until you have 4 tortillas.
4. In a bowl, shred the chicken breast using 2 forks. Add the BBQ sauce. Mix until the chicken is well coated.
5. Divide the chicken evenly between 2 tortillas. Do the same with the cheese and cilantro. Next, cover with the other 2 tortillas. Spray the tops with avocado oil spray.
6. Place the pan with the quesadillas under the broiler, and cook until lightly browned and crispy, about 15 minutes.
7. Let cool and DEVOUR.

Notes

• Storage: After cooking, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days to keep them fresh.
• Freezing: You can also freeze the cooked quesadillas. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in foil or freezer-safe plastic wrap.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of fresh salsa or a mixed green salad for a refreshing contrast to the cheesy quesadillas.
• Variations: Try adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Serving suggestion: These quesadillas work great as a main dish for lunch or dinner but can also be sliced into smaller pieces for a fun appetizer at gatherings.

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Meet Brooke Davis

I’m all about cozy, comforting food made with fresh, local ingredients. I develop most of our weeknight dinners and heartier main dishes. My specialty is taking a classic comfort food and giving it a bright, California twist. We all cook and test together, but I’m usually the one in charge of the main event and making sure every recipe is perfect.