Kids Chicken Quesadilla Recipe

Warm and shred chicken

If using refrigerated cooked chicken, rewarm briefly in microwave (20–30 seconds) or in a small saucepan over low heat with 1 tablespoon water until just warm. Shred chicken into small, kid-friendly pieces.

Combine shredded chicken, both cheeses, diced red bell pepper (if using), chopped green onion, mild taco seasoning, and salt in a bowl. Mix until evenly distributed. The cheese will help bind the filling when melted.

Lay one small tortilla on a clean work surface. Sprinkle about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the cheese-and-chicken mixture evenly over half of the tortilla, leaving a 1⁄4-inch edge. Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling to make a half-moon.

Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling to make four quesadillas. If you prefer whole (not folded) quesadillas, place filling on one tortilla then top with a second tortilla.

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-low to medium heat. Add 1⁄2 teaspoon butter or a little oil and swirl to coat. (Use medium-low for slower melting and less browning for kids.)

Place one folded quesadilla in the skillet. Cook 2 to 3 minutes until the bottom is lightly golden and the cheese begins to melt. Carefully flip with a spatula and cook another 2 minutes until both sides are golden and cheese is fully melted. Press gently with the spatula to help the quesadilla seal.

Repeat with remaining quesadillas, adding more butter or oil to the skillet as needed (about 1⁄2 teaspoon per quesadilla). Transfer cooked quesadillas to a cutting board and let rest 1 minute before slicing.

Cut each quesadilla into 3 or 4 wedges with a pizza cutter or sharp knife (for kids, smaller wedges are easier to handle). Serve warm with small bowls of sour cream, mild salsa, and sliced or mashed avocado. Offer lime wedges for squeezing if desired.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and cheese is melted.