Indulge in the bold flavors of our buffalo chicken quesadilla recipe! This dish is perfect for game day or a cozy night in, featuring tender, spicy chicken paired with melted cheese, all encased in a crispy tortilla. It’s quick to prepare and sure to be a hit with friends and family. Get ready to enjoy a delightful blend of heat and richness with each bite!
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced green onions
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing (for serving)
– Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 quesadilla) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 25g carbohydrates, 18g fat, and 800mg sodium. This data is based on one quesadilla.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce until well coated.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tbsp of olive oil.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on one half.
4. Layer with buffalo chicken and green onions.
5. Top with the remaining cheese.
6. Fold the tortilla in half and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
7. Flip the quesadilla and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
8. Remove from skillet and let it cool for a minute before cutting.
9. Repeat the process for the remaining tortillas and filling.
10. Serve hot with ranch dressing for dipping.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute grilled tofu for chicken for a vegetarian option or use a different type of cheese like Monterey Jack for a creamier texture. Also, consider using whole wheat tortillas for a healthier version.
Serving and Pairings
These buffalo chicken quesadillas pair perfectly with a side of celery sticks, carrot sticks, and your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese. They also go well with a fresh garden salad.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months, though the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overfill the quesadillas to prevent spills.
- Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the quesadilla.
- Use medium heat to avoid burning the tortillas.
- Let the quesadillas sit for a minute before cutting to keep the filling intact.
- Choose the right buffalo sauce level to suit your spice preference.
- Don’t skip the cheese; it helps bind everything together.
- Be mindful of cooking time to ensure the chicken is heated through.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
- Add bell peppers or jalapeños for extra crunch and spice.
- Let the chicken cool slightly before mixing with buffalo sauce.
- Use a non-stick skillet to make flipping easier.
- Make a double batch for parties; they’re always a hit!
FAQs
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, leftover rotisserie chicken is a great option and saves time. Just shred it and mix it with buffalo sauce.
What can I substitute for buffalo sauce?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute buffalo sauce with BBQ sauce or a mix of hot sauce and butter for a less spicy version.
How do I keep my quesadillas crispy?
To maintain crispiness, avoid overloading with filling and cook over medium heat. Serve immediately after cooking.
Can these be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the quesadillas right before cooking to ensure they stay fresh and crispy.
What else can I add to my quesadilla?
Feel free to add ingredients like black beans, corn, or diced tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
This buffalo chicken quesadilla recipe is a fantastic choice for a quick meal or a fun appetizer. With its spicy chicken and melty cheese, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy this flavorful dish and make it your own with various toppings and sides!
Buffalo Chicken Quesadilla
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced green onions
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing for serving
- Fresh cilantro for garnish, optional
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce until well coated.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tbsp of olive oil.
- Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on one half.
- Layer with buffalo chicken and green onions.
- Top with the remaining cheese.
- Fold the tortilla in half and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the quesadilla and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Remove from skillet and let it cool for a minute before cutting.
- Repeat the process for the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Serve hot with ranch dressing for dipping.
