Chicken Avocado Quesadillas

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Avocado Quesadillas combine the savory flavors of seasoned chicken with the smoothness of ripe avocado and the richness of melted cheese, all nestled in a crispy tortilla. The addition of fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions enhances the flavor and gives the quesadillas a satisfying crunch. Quick and easy to prepare, this dish makes a great lunch, dinner, or snack. It’s versatile and customizable to suit your taste, making it a perfect go-to recipe.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 2 tsp olive oil, divided

• 1 small onion, finely chopped (about ½ cup)

• 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)

• 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped

• ½ cup diced tomatoes

• 2 tbsp fajita or taco seasoning

For the Quesadillas:

• 4 medium flour tortillas

• 1 avocado, pitted and sliced

• 4 tsp low-fat sour cream

• ½ cup shredded low-fat mozzarella, Mexican blend, or cheddar cheese

• Fresh lime juice and minced cilantro (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat a large, heavy-duty pan over high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan, then cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Remove from the pan and let rest before dicing.

2. Prepare the Filling:
   In the same pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the diced tomatoes and fajita seasoning, cooking for another 2 minutes. Dice the cooked chicken and return it to the pan, stirring until fully combined.

3. Assemble the Quesadillas:
   Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a clean pan over medium heat. Place two tortillas in the pan and spread 1 teaspoon of sour cream on one side of each tortilla. Top with shredded cheese, sliced avocado, chicken mixture, a squeeze of lime, and a sprinkle of minced cilantro. Fold the tortillas in half to form a half-moon shape. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until the tortillas are crispy and golden, and the cheese is melted.

4. Serve & Enjoy:
   Slice the quesadillas into wedges and serve immediately with lime wedges, sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for a veggie-packed quesadilla.

• Cheese Swap: Try using pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese for a spicier version.

• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the chicken mixture for an extra level of heat.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortillas to make this recipe gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the quesadillas in a skillet over low heat for 3-4 minutes on each side until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them, though they may not stay as crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly.

2. Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble and cook the quesadillas when ready to serve.

3. Can I freeze these quesadillas?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled but uncooked quesadillas. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To cook, just thaw and then follow the cooking instructions.

4. How can I make these quesadillas spicier?

To make your quesadillas spicier, add diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture or use spicy cheese like pepper jack.

5. Can I use whole wheat tortillas?

Yes, whole wheat tortillas work great as a healthier option and still hold up well when crisped.

6. What can I serve with these quesadillas?

Serve with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a fresh salad to round out the meal.

7. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can also check by cutting into the thickest part of the chicken to make sure it’s no longer pink.

8. Can I use a non-stick pan for cooking the quesadillas?

Yes, a non-stick pan works great for cooking the quesadillas, making it easier to flip without sticking.

9. How can I make the quesadillas extra crispy?

To make them extra crispy, use a little more oil when cooking the tortillas and cook them on a medium-low heat to ensure they get golden without burning.

10. Can I add beans to this recipe?

Yes, black beans or refried beans can be added to the filling for extra texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Chicken Avocado Quesadillas are a quick, delicious meal that’s sure to satisfy your hunger. With tender, seasoned chicken, creamy avocado, and melty cheese all tucked inside a golden tortilla, it’s a simple yet irresistible dish that everyone will enjoy. Whether you make it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend snack, this recipe is a winner every time!