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Abdul Rehman

Chicken Quesadillas: Easy Stovetop Recipe

Boneless chicken breast seasoned with cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika, cooked with softened bell peppers and red onion, wrapped in a large flour tortilla with a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar. Cooked in a dry skillet over medium heat for a crispy, golden result that holds even after slicing. Ready from start to finish in 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Calories: 452

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Filling:
  • 500 g 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp fine salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ red bell pepper thinly sliced
  • ½ green bell pepper thinly sliced
  • ¼ red onion thinly sliced
For the Quesadillas:
  • 4 large 25cm / 10-inch flour tortillas
  • 200 g about 2 cups shredded cheese, Monterey Jack and cheddar blend
  • 2 tbsp pickled jalapeños optional

Method
 

  1. Mix cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and coat it evenly all over with the spice mix.
  2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the chicken and cook for 6 to 7 minutes on the first side undisturbed, until golden. Flip and cook for 5 to 6 more minutes until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) and the juices run clear.
  3. Remove the chicken from the pan and rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes. Shred into strips with two forks or slice thinly.
  4. Return the skillet to medium heat (no additional oil). Add the sliced bell peppers and red onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened with slightly charred edges and all moisture has evaporated.
  5. Add the shredded chicken back into the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for 1 minute. Remove from heat.
  6. Lay one flour tortilla flat. Cover one half with about 50g of shredded cheese, then a quarter of the chicken filling, then a thin layer of additional cheese. Fold the empty half over.
  7. Heat a large, dry skillet (no oil) over medium heat for 1 to 2 minutes. Place the quesadilla in the pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the underside is deep golden and feels firm under the spatula.
  8. Flip in one smooth motion and cook for a further 2 to 3 minutes until golden and the cheese is fully melted with no cold spots.
  9. Rest on a cutting board for 1 minute, then cut into 3 to 4 wedges. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.