Grilled Chicken Quesadillas

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes boast the versatility and popularity of quesadillas. These delightful folded tortillas can be filled with a myriad of ingredients, allowing for endless variations that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight meal or a culinary enthusiast eager to impress guests at a casual gathering, quesadillas are an excellent choice. Among the many options available, Zesty Grilled Chicken Quesadillas stand out for their vibrant flavor, satisfying textures, and ease of preparation.

Discover the delicious world of Zesty Grilled Chicken Quesadillas, where vibrant flavors meet versatile ingredients. This quick and easy recipe features marinated, juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and melty cheese all enveloped in toasted tortillas. Perfect for busy evenings or gatherings with friends, these quesadillas can be customized to your taste, whether you're craving something spicy or vegetarian. Elevate your dining experience with this delightful comfort food that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat!

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Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and black pepper, to taste

4 large flour tortillas

1 ½ cups shredded cheese (choose cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a flavorful blend)

1 cup assorted bell peppers (sliced, any color)

½ cup red onion (thinly sliced)

¼ cup fresh cilantro (chopped)

1 ripe avocado (sliced)

Sour cream and salsa, for serving

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts, making sure they are thoroughly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for approximately 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). After grilling, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

Prepare the Vegetables: While the chicken is resting, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and red onion, sautéing them for about 5 minutes until they become slightly soft and aromatic. Remove the pan from the heat and set the veggies aside.

Assemble the Quesadillas: Take each tortilla and place it on a flat surface. On one half of each tortilla, layer an even distribution of grilled chicken, sautéed bell peppers and onions, a generous handful of shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. Fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape, pressing gently to seal.

Grill the Quesadillas: Wipe the grill pan clean or use a fresh one, then heat it over medium heat. Carefully place the filled quesadillas on the grill. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is beautifully melted. If using a skillet, gently press down on the quesadilla with a spatula for even cooking.

Slice and Serve: Once grilled to perfection, remove the quesadillas from the pan and allow them to cool for a minute. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice each quesadilla into wedges. Serve hot, accompanied by slices of avocado, a dollop of sour cream, and a side of salsa for dipping.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 40 minutes | Serves 4