Homemade Chicken Quesadillas

I’ve always had a soft spot for Homemade Chicken Quesadillas. There’s something incredibly comforting about the combination of crispy tortillas, savory chicken, and gooey cheddar cheese that brings back so many fond memories. I remember the first time I made them; the aroma of the sautéed onions and bell peppers filled my kitchen, drawing friends in like moths to a flame. It was a casual gathering, and soon enough everyone was gathered around the table, eagerly anticipating those golden, cheesy pockets of joy. The best part? Each bite was a symphony of flavors that danced on the palate—perfectly seasoned with taco seasoning and a hint of freshness from the cilantro. This dish is not just food; it’s a celebration of good times with friends and family.

What You Need for Homemade Chicken Quesadillas

Creating the perfect Homemade Chicken Quesadillas is all about choosing the right ingredients. Fresh, wholesome components not only enhance the flavor but also ensure a satisfying meal. The key players in this dish are the chicken, cheese, and tortillas. Together, they create a delightful harmony that is hard to resist.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: This is essential for sautéing the vegetables and adding a rich flavor.
• 1 onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and depth to the quesadilla filling.
• ½ red bell pepper (chopped): Offers a slight crunch and vibrant color.
• ½ green bell pepper (chopped): Balances the sweetness of the red peppers.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (⅛ stick): Enhances the richness of the filling.
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed): The star protein, providing heartiness to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning: Infuses all the ingredients with a delicious, zesty flavor.
• 2 (10-inch) flour tortillas: Essential for holding everything together; I prefer flour for their flexibility.
• 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully, giving that unmistakable cheesy goodness.
• 4 tablespoons canned corn (drained): Adds a touch of sweetness and texture.
• 1 tomato (chopped): Freshness to lighten the meal.
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar: Brightens the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro: A fragrant herb that elevates the flavor profile.
• 1 pinch kosher salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.

Homemade Chicken Quesadillas Instructions

Making Homemade Chicken Quesadillas is a fun and straightforward process. I love how each step builds on the last to create something delicious. Let’s dive into these simple instructions.

1. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to a nonstick pan over medium heat. Once hot, sauté the onion and both the red and green bell peppers for about 10 minutes. You want them to soften and become fragrant, then remove them from the pan and set them aside.
2. In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Watch it closely so it doesn’t burn! This butter will add richness to the chicken.
3. Now, add the cubed chicken and sprinkle on 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked through and no longer pink. You should notice a wonderful aroma filling your kitchen!
4. In a separate pan over low heat, warm 1 tortilla on each side until slightly golden. This step helps to make the tortilla more pliable and delicious.
5. Now it’s time to assemble! On one half of the warmed tortilla, layer half of the cheddar cheese, followed by half of the cooked chicken mixture, the sautéed onions and bell peppers, and canned corn.
6. Flip the other half of the tortilla over the filling and let it cook on low heat for a few minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the cheese to melt completely and the tortilla to crisp up.
7. Once the quesadilla is golden brown on one side, carefully remove it from the pan. Cut it into three triangles with a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
8. Repeat the process with the remaining tortilla and ingredients. Each one will turn out golden and crispy!
9. For a refreshing side, in a food processor, combine the chopped tomato, another onion, white vinegar, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of kosher salt. Pulse for one minute until you have a chunky salsa.
10. Serve your warm quesadillas with the freshly made salsa on the side. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the joy of sharing them with loved ones!

Helpful Notes about Homemade Chicken Quesadillas

Here are some helpful notes to ensure your Homemade Chicken Quesadillas turn out amazing! These tips will guide you through storage, serving, and variations.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on a skillet for the best texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked quesadillas for up to two months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of fresh salsa, guacamole, or a crisp green salad to balance the cheesiness.
• Customizable: Feel free to try different proteins, such as shredded beef or turkey, or even make a vegetarian version using only veggies and cheese.
• Creative sides: Try pairing your quesadillas with a refreshing corn salad or a zesty coleslaw for added crunch.

Great Combinations for Homemade Chicken Quesadillas

When it comes to serving your Homemade Chicken Quesadillas, the options are endless! Here are some fantastic ideas to elevate your meal:

• Toppings: Serve with salsa, sour cream, or fresh guacamole to complement the flavors of the quesadillas.
• Salads: A fresh greens salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the quesadillas.
• Vegetable sides: Grilled or steamed vegetables like zucchini or asparagus can make a great side dish.
• Occasions: Perfect for family dinners, game night, or any casual gathering where you want to impress.
• Storage tips: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container, and enjoy them the next day!
• Seasonal pairings: In summer, serve with a chilled corn salad; in winter, try roasted vegetables for added warmth.

FAQ

Conclusion

**Homemade Chicken Quesadillas** are a delightful and satisfying meal that brings comfort and joy to any dining table. With their crispy exterior and cheesy, flavorful filling, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. So why not give them a try tonight? I promise they’ll be a hit with family and friends!

Homemade Chicken Quesadillas

The ultimate comfort food, **Homemade Chicken Quesadillas** are crispy on the outside and filled with savory **chicken** and melted **cheddar cheese**. This easy weeknight dinner satisfies your cravings and is perfect for sharing with family and friends!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 2 quesadillas

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion (chopped)
• ½ red bell pepper (chopped)
• ½ green bell pepper (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (⅛ stick)
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (**)
• 2 (10-inch) flour tortillas
• 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese (***)
• 4 tablespoons canned corn (drained)
• 1 tomato (chopped)
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 pinch kosher salt

Equipment

• Food Processor

Method

 

1. Add 1 tablespoon of **olive oil** to a nonstick pan over medium heat. Once hot, sauté the **onion** and both the **red** and **green bell peppers** for about 10 minutes. You want them to soften and become fragrant, then remove them from the pan and set them aside.
2. In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon of **unsalted butter** over medium heat. Watch it closely so it doesn’t burn! This butter will add richness to the **chicken**.
3. Now, add the cubed **chicken** and sprinkle on 1 tablespoon of **taco seasoning**. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the **chicken** is fully cooked through and no longer pink. You should notice a wonderful aroma filling your kitchen!
4. In a separate pan over low heat, warm **1 tortilla** on each side until slightly golden. This step helps to make the tortilla more pliable and delicious.
5. Now it's time to assemble! On one half of the warmed **tortilla**, layer half of the **cheddar cheese**, followed by half of the cooked **chicken** mixture, the sautéed **onions** and **bell peppers**, and **canned corn**.
6. Flip the other half of the **tortilla** over the filling and let it cook on low heat for a few minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the cheese to melt completely and the tortilla to crisp up.
7. Once the quesadilla is golden brown on one side, carefully remove it from the pan. Cut it into three triangles with a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
8. Repeat the process with the remaining **tortilla** and ingredients. Each one will turn out golden and crispy!
9. For a refreshing side, in a food processor, combine the chopped **tomato**, another **onion**, **white vinegar**, chopped **cilantro**, and a **pinch of kosher salt**. Pulse for one minute until you have a chunky salsa.
10. Serve your warm quesadillas with the freshly made salsa on the side. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the joy of sharing them with loved ones!

Notes

• Tip 1: Don’t use corn tortillas. They work for tacos, not for quesadillas. You need the pliability of flour tortillas to hold the cheese and the filling together.
• Tip 2: Cook over low heat to allow the cheese to melt fully while crisping the tortilla slowly.
• Tip 3: Feel free to add whatever veggies you have on hand. Zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach all work well.
• Tip 4: Reheat in the oven or air fryer to recrisp the quesadillas and evenly melt the cheese.
• Tip 5: Nutritional information does not include optional salsa.

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Meet Hazel Miller

The Flavor Enthusiast Yes, Jenna and I are related! Growing up, our kitchen was the center of our world, and that hasn’t changed. I am a curious cook who loves exploring new ingredients and techniques. I don’t have a single specialty I just love the magic of transformation. Whether we are grilling outdoors or baking indoors, I am always right there, tasting, testing, and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.