Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsEl Pollo LocoBirria Stuffed Quesadilla Recipe

Birria Stuffed Quesadilla Recipe

Inspired by El Pollo Loco
Time4h
Serves4

Make Birria Stuffed Quesadilla Recipe in just 4h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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For the Birria

Method

For the Birria

  1. 1

    Prepare the Chilies

    Remove the stems and seeds from the guajillo and ancho chilies. Soak them in hot water for about 15-20 minutes until softened.

  2. 2

    Make the Marinade

    In a blender, combine the soaked chilies, garlic cloves, onion, cumin seeds, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth, adding a bit of the soaking water if necessary to achieve a sauce-like consistency.

  3. 3

    Marinate the Meat

    Cut the chuck roast into large chunks and coat them with the marinade. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator.

  4. 4

    Cook the Birria

    In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated meat chunks until browned on all sides. Add the beef broth and bay leaves, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours until the meat is tender.

  5. 5

    Shred the Meat

    Once cooked, remove the meat from the pot and shred it using two forks. Reserve the broth for dipping.

For the Quesadilla

  1. 6

    Assemble the Quesadilla

    Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place a flour tortilla in the skillet, sprinkle one half with shredded cheese, add some shredded birria meat, and top with fresh cilantro. Fold the tortilla over to form a half-moon shape.

  2. 7

    Cook the Quesadilla

    Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the tortilla is golden and crispy and the cheese is melted. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.

  3. 8

    Serve

    Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve with lime wedges and a side of sour cream for dipping, along with the reserved birria broth.

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