Crockpot Queso Chicken Quesadillas

Crockpot Queso Chicken Quesadillas are a cheesy, flavor-packed meal that combines slow-cooked shredded chicken with creamy queso for the ultimate filling. Stuffed inside golden, crispy tortillas, these quesadillas are perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, game day, or party platter.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe takes all the work out of making delicious quesadillas by using the crockpot to do the heavy lifting. The chicken is infused with bold Mexican flavors and melty queso, making it irresistibly creamy and perfect for stuffing. It’s a hands-off, crowd-pleasing meal with minimal prep and maximum flavor.

ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Taco seasoning or fajita seasoning
• Jarred queso dip (mild or spicy)
• Canned diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), drained
• Shredded Mexican blend or cheddar cheese
• Flour tortillas
• Butter or oil (for cooking quesadillas)
• Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, guacamole, cilantro, jalapeños

directions

this recipe

1. Place chicken in the crockpot. Sprinkle with taco seasoning.
2. Add drained diced tomatoes and pour queso dip over the chicken.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender and easy to shred.
4. Shred the chicken in the crockpot and stir to combine with the sauce.
5. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Place a tortilla on the skillet, sprinkle with shredded cheese, spoon on a layer of queso chicken, and top with another layer of cheese and a second tortilla.
7. Cook until the bottom is golden, then flip and cook the other side until crispy and the cheese is melted.
8. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
9. Slice and serve with desired toppings.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people (makes about 6 quesadillas).
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 6–7 hours (slow cooker)
Quesadilla assembly and cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: approx. 7 hours 30 minutes (hands-on time is much shorter)

Variations

• Add black beans or corn to the crockpot for extra texture.
• Use shredded rotisserie chicken for a shortcut—simmer with queso and tomatoes.
• Swap queso for cream cheese and shredded cheese for a milder flavor.
• Make it spicy by adding jalapeños or hot sauce to the crockpot mixture.
• Use whole wheat, low-carb, or gluten-free tortillas to suit dietary needs.

storage/reheating

Store leftover quesadilla filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Assembled quesadillas can be refrigerated and reheated in a skillet or toaster oven to keep them crisp. Freeze the chicken mixture for up to 2 months—thaw and reheat before using.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just shred it and heat with queso and tomatoes until warmed through.

What type of queso works best?

Any jarred queso dip works—choose your preferred level of spice and thickness.

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can make the filling ahead and store it in the fridge. Assemble and cook quesadillas when ready to serve.

Do I need to drain the tomatoes?

Yes, draining helps prevent the mixture from becoming too watery.

Can I use corn tortillas?

Yes, but they’re smaller and more delicate—handle carefully while flipping.

How do I keep quesadillas crispy?

Cook over medium heat with a little butter or oil, and don’t overfill them.

Can I make these in a panini press?

Absolutely—it helps get an even crisp and melt.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

The chicken filling can be frozen. Assemble fresh quesadillas when ready to serve.

Can I add veggies?

Yes, sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach make great additions.

What sides go well with these quesadillas?

Serve with rice, beans, salad, chips and salsa, or a bowl of soup.

Conclusion

Crockpot Queso Chicken Quesadillas are the ultimate no-fuss, flavor-loaded meal. With melty cheese, creamy queso, and tender shredded chicken all wrapped in a crispy tortilla, they’re a guaranteed hit. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or serving up party snacks, these quesadillas are as easy as they are delicious.

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