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Quesadillas are a beloved staple in Mexican cuisine, known for their delicious simplicity and endless versatility. These delightful creations, typically made with tortillas filled with cheese and various ingredients, can be customized to suit any palate. Among the many variations, grilled chicken quesadillas stand out as a particularly popular option. They present an appealing mix of flavors and textures that make them perfect for casual family dinners or entertaining guests at a weekend gathering. The combination of juicy grilled chicken, melted cheese, and fresh vegetables enveloped in a warm, crisp tortilla creates a dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Grilled Chicken Quesadillas

Discover the deliciousness of homemade sizzling grilled chicken quesadillas! This popular Mexican dish combines juicy grilled chicken, rich melted cheese, and fresh vegetables all wrapped in a warm tortilla for a perfect meal. Easy to prepare and fully customizable, these quesadillas are great for family dinners or entertaining guests. With a balance of savory flavors and crispy textures, they promise to satisfy every palate. Try them today for a delightful dining experience!

Ingredients
  

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)

4 medium flour tortillas

1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

1 small onion, thinly sliced

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Sour cream (for serving)

Salsa (for serving)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice blend evenly over both chicken breasts. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes to enhance flavor, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for a more intense taste.

    Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, drizzle a bit of olive oil on the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill, cooking for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and have lovely grill marks. After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

      Sauté the Vegetables: In a medium skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the sliced red bell pepper and onion, sautéing for about 5-6 minutes until they become soft and slightly caramelized. Once cooked, remove from heat and set aside.

        Assemble the Quesadillas: Place one flour tortilla on a clean, flat surface. On one half of the tortilla, layer one-fourth of the grilled chicken strips, a portion of the sautéed vegetables, and a generous blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese. Fold the other half of the tortilla over to create a semi-circle, pressing down lightly to secure.

          Grill the Quesadillas: Using the same skillet or grill, lightly grease with olive oil again. Carefully place the quesadilla in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas.

            Serve: Once cooked, cut each quesadilla into wedges with a sharp knife. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately with side bowls of sour cream and salsa for dipping.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 40 mins | 4 servings

                - Presentation Tips: Arrange the quesadilla wedges on a colorful platter, sprinkling some additional cilantro on top. Serve with lime wedges for an extra zesty kick!