Description
A fast-food inspired quesadilla that mimics the classic Taco Bell Chicken Quesadilla. This recipe features tender, seasoned chicken and melty cheese sandwiched between perfectly grilled flour tortillas. It’s a satisfying blend of savory flavors and a crispy, gooey finish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco spice blend)
• 1/4 cup water
For the Quesadilla:
• 4-6 flour tortillas (depending on size)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
• 1/2 cup diced onions (optional)
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
• 1 tablespoon butter (for grilling)
Optional Garnishes:
• Sour cream
• Salsa or Pico de Gallo
• Guacamole
Instructions
-
Prepare the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken with taco seasoning and add it to the skillet.
- Pour in water, cover, and cook for about 8–10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Shred the chicken using two forks.
-
Assemble the Quesadilla:
- Lay one tortilla on a flat surface.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese evenly over the tortilla.
- Add a layer of shredded chicken, and if using, add diced onions and bell peppers.
- Top with another layer of cheese and cover with a second tortilla.
-
Grill the Quesadilla:
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add butter.
- Place the assembled quesadilla in the skillet.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing slightly with a spatula until the tortillas are golden and crispy and the cheese has melted.
-
Serve:
- Remove from the skillet and cut into wedges.
- Serve warm with your favorite garnishes like sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.
Notes
• For extra flavor, sauté the onions and bell peppers in the skillet before adding them to the quesadilla.
• You can adjust the spice level by choosing mild or spicy taco seasoning, or by adding extra chili powder.
• If you prefer a softer quesadilla, reduce the grilling time slightly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 quesadilla
- Calories: ~400 kcal
- Sugar: ~4 g
- Sodium: ~900 mg
- Fat: ~20 g
- Saturated Fat: ~8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~12 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~35 g
- Fiber: ~3 g
- Protein: ~25 g
- Cholesterol: ~70 mg