Chicken Quesadillas
Craving a burst of flavors that transport you to Mexico? Look no further! This easy Chicken Quesadilla recipe is perfect for any occasion, offering a delightful combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese. Are you ready to impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering dish?
Recipe Information
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 8 wheat tortillas
- 2 chicken breasts (approximately 500g)
- 1 red bell pepper
- 200g button mushrooms
- 2 green onions
- 1 yellow onion
- 2 sprigs of cilantro
- 500g shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Sea salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 jar of salsa sauce
Instructions
- Slice the yellow onion thinly.
- Chop the mushrooms into small pieces, also known as duxelles.
- Chop the red bell pepper in the same manner.
- Thinly slice the green onions.
- In a non-stick skillet, heat a bit of olive oil and sauté the chicken for 2 minutes on each side until browned. Lower the heat, add a splash of water, cover, and cook for 8 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and slice it on a cutting board.
- In the same skillet, add more olive oil as needed and sauté the yellow onion over low heat until translucent.
- Add the red bell pepper and cook for 2 minutes, then add the mushrooms.
- Season with salt, pepper, and add 1 tablespoon of salsa sauce.
- Add the sliced chicken back into the mixture and stir well.
- Mix in the green onions and cilantro.
- On a griddle or large skillet, heat a tortilla over low heat.
- Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly over the tortilla, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and cover with another tortilla. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side, ensuring the cheese melts.
- Serve hot alongside homemade guacamole or sour cream.
Notes
Feel free to customize the fillings with other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.
Recipe Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for better flavor.
- Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicy kick.
- Keep a lid on the skillet while cooking to help the cheese melt evenly.
Nutritional Information
Calories: Approximately 600 per serving; Protein: 30g; Carbohydrates: 50g; Fat: 30g.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the quesadillas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just pan-fry them when you’re ready to serve.
2. Are quesadillas freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked quesadillas. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
3. Can I use other proteins?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with cooked beef, shrimp, or even plant-based proteins for a vegetarian option.
4. What sides pair well with quesadillas?
Quesadillas pair nicely with side salads, Mexican rice, and dips like guacamole or salsa.
5. How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can use whole grain tortillas, reduced-fat cheese, and add more vegetables to increase the nutritional value.
