Chicken Quesadilla Recipe

Warm and shred/dice chicken

If your chicken is cold, warm slightly in microwave or sauté briefly so it's easy to shred or dice. Aim for about 2 cups cooked chicken (about 12–14 oz raw before cooking).

Sauté vegetables

In a medium skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon butter or 1/2 tablespoon oil. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper and cook 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Combine filling

In a mixing bowl combine shredded chicken, sautéed onion and pepper, both cheeses, chopped cilantro, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning (add up to 1/4 tsp more salt or a squeeze more lime if desired).

Heat pan

Heat a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-low to medium heat. Add remaining 1 tablespoon butter or 1 1/2 tablespoons oil and swirl to coat.

Assemble quesadilla

Lay one tortilla flat on a plate or cutting board. Spread about 3/4 to 1 cup of the chicken-cheese filling evenly over half the tortilla, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon. Repeat for additional quesadillas (work in batches if necessary).

Cook first side

Carefully transfer folded quesadilla to the hot pan. Cook 2–3 minutes without moving, until the bottom is golden brown and crisp and the cheese begins to melt. Reduce heat if browning too quickly.

Flip and finish

Using a spatula, flip the quesadilla and cook an additional 2–3 minutes until the second side is golden and the cheese is fully melted. Press gently with the spatula for even contact. Remove to a cutting board and let rest 1 minute.

Repeat

Repeat assembly and cooking for remaining tortillas and filling. Re-add a little butter or oil to the pan between batches if needed.

Slice each quesadilla into 3–4 wedges using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Serve warm with sour cream, salsa/pico de gallo, and sliced avocado or guacamole on the side. Optional: garnish with extra chopped cilantro and a lime wedge.