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While inspired by the classic Taco Bell chicken quesadilla, our recipe incorporates fresh ingredients and grilling techniques that bring out deeper, smoky flavors.
I remember inviting friends over for a casual get-together one summer evening. The idea was to serve something familiar yet innovative, and grilled Taco Bell chicken quesadillas became the star of the night.
As the chicken sizzled on the grill, the aroma mingled with laughter and lively conversation, creating an ambiance that was both relaxed and exhilarating.
Grilling not only imparts a smoky aroma but also creates a delightful contrast between the crisp outer layer and the tender, juicy filling.
With every bite, you’ll enjoy a burst of textures and tastes, from the savory grilled chicken and gooey cheese to the crisp tortillas and vibrant seasonings.
This chicken quesadilla recipe is a healthy, delicious, and nutritious meal, with each serving providing approximately 520 calories.
It is rich in protein, low in unnecessary fats, and brimming with essential vitamins and minerals, making it an ideal meal for those who don’t want to compromise on their health goals without sacrificing flavor.
This simple chicken quesadilla recipe is a crowd-pleaser for lunch, dinner, or even a quick snack.
✅ Read the entire article to ensure you’re fully prepared with all the necessary equipment and ingredients. The full recipe and cooking instructions are below.
Key Ingredients for Taco Bell Chicken Quesadillas
Here are the main ingredients you will need for homemade Taco Bell chicken quesadillas:
1. Chicken
The star of the show is lean, boneless, skinless chicken breasts. When marinated with lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic, and smoked paprika, the chicken absorbs layers of flavor while remaining tender and juicy.
2. Mexican Cheese Blend
A blend of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese is crucial. Cheddar brings a tangy sharpness, while Monterey Jack offers a wonderfully creamy melt. Together, they create that signature gooey texture that holds the quesadilla layers together.
3. Creamy Jalapeño Sauce
This sauce is captures the signature Taco Bell flavor. It is spread inside the tortilla and also served on the side, offering a refreshing balance to the rich, melty cheese and grilled chicken. It’s made by combining mayonnaise, pickled jalapeños, jalapeño brine, lime juice, and taco seasoning.
4. Homemade Taco Seasoning
This seasoning blend typically includes chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. The mix is used both in the marinade and in the creamy sauce, enhancing the taste and replicating the original fast-food version.
5. Tortillas
Soft, large flour tortillas (10-inches) serve as the perfect canvas for layering the flavors. Their slight chewiness contrasts beautifully with the crispy, grilled exterior once the quesadilla is cooked to golden perfection.
6. Fresh Veggies
Crisp diced tomatoes, chopped red onions, and green bell peppers are essential for adding freshness and a slight crunch to each bite, balancing the richness of the cheese and sauce.
Equipment Needed to Make Chicken Quesadillas
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- Grill or Grill Pan: A grill or grill pan is ideal for achieving the smoky char marks and crispy texture on the quesadillas and chicken. If an outdoor grill isn’t available, a sturdy grill pan on your stovetop will do the trick.
- Skillet/Non-Stick Pan: If you prefer to use a pan for cooking the chicken or reheating the quesadilla, a good quality non-stick skillet helps ensure that nothing sticks and the meat cooks evenly.
- Spatula and Tongs: These tools are essential for flipping the quesadilla and handling the chicken pieces safely. They help maintain the structure of the dish without tearing the tortillas.
- Mixing Bowls: Multiple bowls are needed for marinating the chicken, preparing the sauce, and mixing in your veggies. Having the right size bowls makes the process more organized and efficient.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: Fresh veggies and chicken should be chopped precisely. A reliable cutting board and sharp knife will ensure that all ingredients are uniformly sized, leading to even cooking and a more appealing presentation.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To get your marinade, sauce, and seasoning blends exactly right, accurate measuring tools are important. This attention to detail ensures the flavor balance remains consistent every time you prepare the dish.
- Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is a must-have for checking that the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature (165°F/74°C). This tool ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat, helping you avoid undercooking or overcooking.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Quesadillas
Chicken quesadillas offer a variety of health benefits, including:
- High-Quality Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and overall body function. Protein also helps keep you feeling full, making the quesadilla a satisfying meal.
- Calcium-Rich: The generous layer of shredded Mexican cheese blend not only adds that signature melty texture but also delivers a good dose of calcium. This is essential for strong bones and teeth, as well as overall metabolic health.
- Vitamins: Fresh vegetables and lean chicken provide a rich source of vitamins A and C, essential for healthy vision, a strong immune system, and collagen production to support skin and joint health.
- Balanced Macros: This quesadilla delivers a well-rounded blend of carbohydrates (from the tortillas), protein (from the chicken), and healthy fats (from the cheese and sauce), making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.
- Dietary Fiber: Incorporating fresh vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers adds fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a feeling of fullness longer after a meal.
- Minerals: Chicken quesadillas are rich in essential minerals, including iron (for oxygen transport), potassium (for muscle and heart health), magnesium (for nerve function), and calcium (from cheese, supporting strong bones).
What to Serve or Pair with Chicken Quesadillas
You can pair chicken quesadillas with a variety of sides that complement their flavors, such as:
- Fresh Salsa: A zesty, freshly made salsa, think diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime, provides a refreshing counterbalance to the rich flavors of the quesadilla. It adds a burst of acidity and brightness that complements the savory filling.
- Queso Dip: A warm, melty queso dip is an irresistible pairing. Made with a blend of melted cheeses, a bit of cream, and a dash of spices, queso is perfect for dipping quesadilla wedges or drizzling over the top.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole, made with ripe avocados, lime juice, diced tomatoes, and a hint of jalapeño, pairs wonderfully with the quesadilla. The creamy texture and healthy fats enhance both the taste and the nutritional profile of your meal.
- Side Salad: A light, crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette can round out your meal, offering additional fiber and vitamins while keeping the meal balanced and refreshing.
- Black Beans or Corn Salad: For a more filling accompaniment, try a side of black beans or a corn salad. These not only add texture and flavor but also boost the protein and fiber content of your meal.
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime over your quesadilla can heighten the flavors and add a citrusy zing that brightens the dish. Keep some lime wedges on the side for that extra punch of freshness.
- Horchata or Agua Fresca: Enjoy a glass of chilled horchata (a creamy, cinnamon-infused rice drink) or a fresh, fruity agua fresca. Both options are wonderfully refreshing and complement the spicy, savory flavors of the quesadilla.
- Margaritas or Palomas: For an adult twist, serve margaritas or palomas. Their citrusy, slightly tart profiles cut through the richness of the quesadilla and add a festive flair to the meal.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side provides an extra layer of creaminess and tang, enhancing every bite of your quesadilla.
Quick Tips for making the Perfect Chicken Quesadillas
- Preheating is Key: Ensure your grill is properly preheated to create a crispy, golden exterior without overcooking the chicken.
- Marinate Generously: The longer you marinate the chicken, the deeper the flavor penetration. If time allows, aim for at least 1 hour.
- Layer Wisely: Avoid overfilling your quesadilla, which can lead to uneven cooking. A moderate layer ensures every bite has balanced flavors.
- Cheese Choice: For a richer flavor, mix two kinds of cheese. Cheddar provides a sharp bite, while Monterey Jack offers a creamy melt.
- Resting Time: Let the grilled chicken rest after cooking to lock in the juices. This step is essential for a moist and flavorful filling.
- Experiment with Heat: Adjust the jalapeños and hot sauce to match your spice tolerance. This quesadilla recipe is adaptable to both mild and fiery palates.
- Grill Marks Matter: Don’t rush the grilling process. Allow the chicken to form a crust that enhances its flavor profile.
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In today’s fast-paced world, healthy eating is a priority for many. This simple chicken quesadilla recipe is a well-rounded meal that provides a good dose of lean protein, essential vitamins, and minerals, all while being incredibly satisfying.
It’s a dish that invites you to experiment, savor, and enjoy every moment of the cooking process. From the careful marination of chicken to the artful assembly and precise grilling, every step is an opportunity to create something truly delicious.
So fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and let this recipe guide you to a memorable dining experience that you’ll want to recreate again and again.
Happy cooking!
Grilled Taco Bell Chicken Quesadilla Recipe with Jalapeño Sauce
Description
This grilled chicken quesadilla recipe is a mouthwatering copycat of the famous Taco Bell chicken quesadilla, but even better because it’s homemade with fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
For the Marinade and Seasonings
For the Quesadilla
For the Creamy Jalapeño Sauce
Optional Add Ons
Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Cut the Chicken
- Begin by cutting the 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts into thin strips.
- Uniform pieces help ensure even cooking.
Marinate the Chicken
Prepare the Marinade
- In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and onion powder.
Marinate
- Add the chicken strips to the marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for more intense flavor).
Prepare the Creamy Jalapeño Sauce
Mix the Sauce Ingredients
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, pickled jalapeños, jalapeño brine, lime juice, and homemade taco seasoning.
Blend Well
- Stir until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Cover and refrigerate the sauce so the flavors meld while you cook the chicken and prepare the quesadillas.
Prepare Your Grill
Preheat Your Grill
- Whether you’re using a gas grill or an indoor grill pan, heat it to medium-high (about 375°F/190°C).
- Brush the grates lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
- Ensure you have tongs, a spatula, and a brush for oiling the grates.
Grill the Chicken
Cooking the Chicken
- Place the marinated chicken strips on the grill in a single layer.
- Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C.
- The chicken should have beautiful grill marks and a smoky char.
Rest the Chicken
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then chop into bite-sized pieces if not already in strips.
Assemble the Quesadilla
Prepare the Tortillas
- Lay out 4 large flour tortillas on a clean, flat work surface.
- On each tortilla, spread a thin layer (about 1–2 tablespoons) of the chilled Creamy Jalapeño Sauce.
- This adds moisture and extra flavor, and helps the cheese stick.
Layer the Cheese and Chicken
- Sprinkle a generous layer (about 1/2 cup) of shredded Mexican cheese blend evenly over the sauced tortilla.
- Next, distribute the grilled chicken pieces evenly across the tortilla.
Add Optional Veggies
- If using, top with diced tomatoes, diced green bell pepper, and finely chopped red onion over the chicken.
Top with More Cheese
- Sprinkle another layer of cheese on top of the veggies.
- This extra cheese layer helps bind the quesadilla together as it melts.
- If using one tortilla, fold it in half, ensuring the filling is evenly distributed.
- If using two tortillas, place the second tortilla on top instead.
Grill the Assembled Quesadilla
Heat the Quesadilla
- Heat the grill or grill pan over medium heat and melt ½ tbsp butter.
- Carefully transfer the assembled quesadilla to the hot pan.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown and crispy.
Flip Carefully
- Using a spatula (or two for support), flip the quesadilla and grill the other side for an additional 3–4 minutes.
- Ensure that the cheese inside has melted completely and both sides have a nice char.
- For an extra-crispy finish, gently press down on the quesadilla while grilling.
- Repeat for remaining quesadillas.
Slice and Serve
Cut Into Wedges
- Remove the quesadilla from the grill and let it cool for 1–2 minutes.
- This helps the melted cheese set, making it easier to cut.
- Slice the quesadilla into wedges using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
Garnish and Serve
- Serve with additional fresh salsa and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side for extra creaminess.
- Optionally, sprinkle a few extra chopped fresh cilantro over the top for a burst of color and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Serving Size 1 large quesadilla wedge
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 520kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 32g50%
- Saturated Fat 10g50%
- Cholesterol 85mg29%
- Sodium 980mg41%
- Potassium 380mg11%
- Total Carbohydrate 28g10%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 3g
- Protein 32g64%
- Vitamin A 600 IU
- Vitamin C 12 mg
- Calcium 250 mg
- Iron 2 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use freshly shredded cheese (pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that don’t melt as smoothly).
- Ensure your grill is not too hot, which can burn the exterior before the chicken cooks through.
- Don’t skimp on the cheese, it not only enhances flavor but helps bind the quesadilla.
- Start with cheese at the bottom, then add the chicken and veggies, and top with another layer of cheese before closing with the tortilla.
- Allow the grilled chicken to rest before assembling; this helps retain moisture and flavor.
- The quesadilla can go from perfectly crisp to overly burnt in seconds. Stay attentive!
