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Crispy Chicken Quesadilla Recipe with Gooey Cheese

crispy chicken quesadilla - featured image

Tender, flavorful chicken nestled between layers of crisp tortillas with melted cheese oozing in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, snacks, or game-day spreads.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thinly
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 regular-sized flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Optional toppings: salsa, guacamole, sour cream, chopped cilantro, jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips (about 1/4-inch thick).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken strips in the spice mix until evenly coated.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken strips and cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
  4. Lay out the flour tortillas. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on one half of each tortilla.
  5. Place a portion of the cooked chicken on top of the cheese layer. Add more cheese on top of the chicken for extra gooeyness.
  6. Fold the empty half of the tortilla over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press down slightly to seal.
  7. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Place the folded quesadillas in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the tortillas are golden and crispy.
  8. Remove the quesadillas from the skillet and let them cool for a minute. Use a sharp knife to cut each quesadilla into wedges. Serve with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.

Notes

Use freshly grated cheese for better meltability. Cook quesadillas in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Adjust seasoning to taste before assembling.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken quesadilla, gooey cheese quesadilla, easy quesadilla recipe, Mexican comfort food, quick dinner recipe