Taco Bell Chicken Quesadillas (Printer-Friendly Version)
Crispy tortillas filled with creamy, spicy chicken and melted cheese for a flavorful, easy dinner or snack.
# Ingredients Needed:
→ Quesadilla Filling
01 -
2 cups finely shredded rotisserie chicken
02 -
0.5 cup mayonnaise
03 -
0.5 cup pickled jalapeño slices, diced
04 -
2 tablespoons pickled jalapeño brine
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2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
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0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
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0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
08 -
0.5 teaspoon ground cumin
09 -
0.5 teaspoon chili powder
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0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper
→ Assembly
11 -
8 medium flour tortillas
12 -
2 tablespoons neutral oil or cooking spray, for toasting
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, mayonnaise, diced pickled jalapeños, jalapeño brine, and shredded cheddar cheese. Add salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper. Toss thoroughly to ensure chicken is evenly coated with sauce, spices, and cheese.
02 -
Lay four tortillas flat on a clean work surface. Evenly distribute the chicken mixture over each, spreading to cover but leaving a small border around the edge. Top with the remaining tortillas and press gently.
03 -
Heat 1/2 tablespoon oil or a light coating of cooking spray in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place each assembled quesadilla into the skillet without crowding. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, pressing gently, until tortillas are golden brown and crisp, and cheese interior is fully melted. Repeat with remaining quesadillas, adding more oil as needed.
04 -
Transfer toasted quesadillas to a cutting board. Let them rest for 1 minute, then slice each into triangles using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Serve hot with dipping sauces such as salsa and sour cream.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
For the best flavor and melt, always shred cheddar from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese.
02 -
Let quesadillas rest briefly after toasting to help stabilize the filling for cleaner slicing.
03 -
This dish stores well for up to three days refrigerated; reheat in a dry skillet or toaster oven for optimal crispness.
04 -
Adjust the spiciness by modifying the amount of jalapeños and cayenne pepper according to preference.