Ingredients:
For the chicken filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the quesadillas:
- 8 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (Monterey Jack, cheddar, etc.)
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
Optional additions:
- Sliced black olives
- Chopped jalapenos (for spice)
- Chopped cilantro
- Salsa
- Sour cream
Instructions:
Cook the chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and spice mixture (chili powder through black pepper) and cook until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
Sauté the vegetables (optional):
- In the same skillet, add the chopped bell pepper and onion. Saute for 3-4 minutes, or until softened.
Assemble the quesadillas:
- Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Lay out a tortilla. Sprinkle a generous layer of cheese on one half of the tortilla.
- Add cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables (if using), and any optional additions over the cheese.
- Top with another layer of cheese.
- Fold the tortilla in half to create a half-moon shape.
Cook the quesadillas:
- Place the quesadilla on the heated skillet or griddle. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and fillings.
Slice and serve:
- Slice each quesadilla into wedges.
- Serve immediately with your favorite toppings like salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and chopped cilantro.
Tips:
- Get creative with the fillings: You can add other fillings like corn, beans, or even different types of cheese. Get creative!
- Use a cast-iron skillet: Cast-iron cookware conducts heat well, making it ideal for getting a crispy tortilla.
- Don’t overfill: Overfilling will make it difficult to fold the quesadillas, and the filling might leak out.
- Serve with a variety of sides: Quesadillas are delicious on their own but go great with rice, beans, guacamole, or a simple salad.
