Easy Chicken Fajita Quesadilla

Easy Chicken Fajita Quesadilla is a delicious fusion of two favorite Mexican dishes—fajitas and quesadillas. This quick and simple recipe combines tender, seasoned chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, and melty cheese, all grilled to crispy perfection in a tortilla. It’s a perfect meal for lunch, dinner, or a tasty snack!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: Combines classic fajita flavors with gooey, cheesy goodness.
• Versatile: Great for using leftover chicken or adding your favorite veggies.
• Kid-Friendly: A fun and tasty way to enjoy chicken and veggies.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar/Monterey Jack)
• 4 large flour tortillas

Optional Toppings:

• Sour cream
• Salsa
• Guacamole
• Chopped fresh cilantro

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

Directions

this recipe

1. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken slices and season with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
   Add the sliced bell peppers and onions to the skillet with the chicken. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Assemble the Quesadillas:
   Place a tortilla on a flat surface. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese on half of the tortilla. Add a portion of the chicken and veggie mixture on top of the cheese, then add another layer of cheese. Fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape.
4. Cook the Quesadillas:
   Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with cooking spray or a small amount of oil. Cook the quesadilla for 2-3 minutes on each side until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve:
   Slice into wedges and serve immediately with your favorite toppings like sour cream, salsa, and guacamole.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 4 quesadillas
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Make It Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with black beans or sautéed mushrooms.
• Low-Carb Version: Use low-carb tortillas or make a quesadilla using large lettuce leaves.
• Cheese Alternatives: Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or a mix of cheeses for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap cooked quesadillas tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warm and crispy, or use a toaster oven. You can also microwave, but the tortilla may not stay as crisp.

FAQs

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken works well. Just heat it with the seasonings and veggies.

What kind of tortillas work best for quesadillas?

Flour tortillas are best because they hold up well when folded and grilled. However, corn tortillas can also be used for a gluten-free option.

Can I bake the quesadillas instead of frying them?

Yes, preheat your oven to 400°F, place the assembled quesadillas on a baking sheet, and bake for 8-10 minutes until crispy.

How do I keep the quesadilla from getting soggy?

Avoid overfilling with wet ingredients and make sure the skillet is hot before adding the quesadilla to create a nice, crispy exterior.

Can I add other veggies?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach would be delicious additions.

What can I serve with chicken fajita quesadillas?

Serve with Mexican rice, a fresh green salad, tortilla chips, and salsa for a complete meal.

How do I make the quesadilla extra crispy?

Use a bit of oil or butter in the skillet and cook over medium heat to get a golden, crispy tortilla without burning.

Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the quesadillas and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. They are best cooked fresh but can also be reheated.

Are these quesadillas gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free tortillas and check that all seasonings are gluten-free.

Can I add cheese inside and outside the quesadilla?

Yes! Sprinkling a bit of cheese on the outside of the tortilla while cooking creates a crispy, cheesy crust.

Conclusion

Easy Chicken Fajita Quesadilla is a tasty and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of fajitas with the cheesy goodness of quesadillas. It’s a quick and versatile meal that the whole family will enjoy. Whether served with classic Mexican sides or on its own as a quick snack, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, homemade quesadilla with all the flavors you love!

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