Cheesy Salsa Chicken Quesadillas
These Cheesy Salsa Chicken Quesadillas make an easy and flavorful meal that's perfect for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekends. Prepare the filling ahead of time for a quick assembly process when you’re ready to cook. Using pre-cooked chicken is a time saver, but fresh broiled chicken gives a juicy and customized flavor profile. Serve with fresh salsa, creamy guacamole, and tangy sour cream for a complete and satisfying dish that pleases every palate.
10
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Boneless Chicken Breast
1 lb (broiled and shredded)
Salsa
16 ounces (jarred)
Cheddar Cheese
0.5 lb (shredded)
Flour Tortillas
10 (8 inch)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
Season the boneless chicken breast with salt and pepper, then broil for about 5 minutes on each side, ensuring the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C). Allow the chicken to cool slightly, then shred or dice into small pieces.
3
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the salsa and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing thoroughly until well blended.
4
Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread approximately 1/10th of the chicken mixture over half of the tortilla, then fold the tortilla over to cover the filling. Press down gently to seal the edges; moistening the edges with a little water can help if necessary.
5
Place the folded quesadillas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased baking pan.
6
Bake in the preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.
7
Remove from the oven, let cool briefly, then cut into wedges or halves. Serve warm with additional salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping.
8
For a more complete meal, accompany the quesadillas with refried beans and/or Spanish Rice on the side.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients in Cheesy Salsa Chicken Quesadillas?
The main ingredients are boneless chicken breast, jarred salsa, shredded cheddar cheese, and 8-inch flour tortillas.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to make 10 servings.
What temperature should the oven be set to for baking?
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for the best results.
How long do I need to bake the quesadillas?
Bake the quesadillas for approximately 5-7 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken to save time?
Yes, using pre-cooked chicken is a great time saver, though fresh broiled chicken provides a juicier flavor.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using shredded cheddar cheese for its melting properties and flavor.
How should I cook the chicken if using fresh breast?
Season with salt and pepper, then broil for about 5 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
What size of tortillas should be used?
This recipe calls for 10-inch or 8-inch flour tortillas; specifically, 8-inch tortillas are recommended in the ingredient list.
Can the filling be prepared in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken, salsa, and cheese filling ahead of time to make the assembly process quicker.
What side dishes are recommended with these quesadillas?
Refried beans and Spanish rice are excellent sides to serve with this dish for a complete meal.
Is it necessary to grease the baking pan?
You should either use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased baking pan to prevent sticking.
How do I ensure the tortillas stay closed?
Press down gently after folding; moistening the edges with a little water can help seal them if needed.
What is the recommended internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken should reach a safe internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C).
How much salsa is required for the mixture?
You will need 16 ounces of jarred salsa for the filling.
How should I cut the quesadillas for serving?
Once removed from the oven and cooled briefly, cut the quesadillas into wedges or halves.
What toppings go well with these quesadillas?
Serve them with fresh salsa, creamy guacamole, and tangy sour cream for dipping.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
While flour tortillas are specified, you can use corn tortillas, though they may be more prone to breaking when folded.
How do I prepare the chicken for the filling?
After cooking, allow the chicken to cool slightly, then shred or dice it into small pieces before mixing with salsa and cheese.
Is this recipe considered a quick meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal and an easy recipe, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
How many tortillas do I need?
You will need 10 flour tortillas for this recipe.
How much chicken is required?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of boneless chicken breast.
What is the ratio of filling per tortilla?
Spread approximately 1/10th of the chicken mixture over half of each tortilla.
Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
While not in the base recipe, you can customize the filling with beans, corn, or peppers if desired.
Is the chicken seasoned?
The instructions recommend seasoning the chicken breast with salt and pepper before broiling.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheating in an oven or toaster oven is best to maintain the crispiness of the tortillas.
Can these be served as an appetizer?
Yes, these quesadillas are categorized as both a family dinner and an appetizer.
What kind of salsa should I use?
Any jarred salsa of your choice will work, ranging from mild to hot depending on your preference.
Should the chicken be shredded or diced?
The recipe suggests either shredding or dicing the chicken into small pieces.
Is the cheese mixed in or layered?
The cheese is mixed thoroughly with the chicken and salsa in a large bowl before filling the tortillas.
Does the recipe include nutritional information?
The provided data does not include specific values for calories, fat, or carbohydrates.