Are you ready to spice up your dinner plans? This buffalo chicken quesadilla recipe is a game-changer! With tender, shredded chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas, it’s a dish that will satisfy your cravings. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe is easy to follow and incredibly flavorful. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
– Olive oil for frying
– Cilantro for garnish (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 quesadilla) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional value is based on one quesadilla.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken and buffalo sauce until well coated.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on one half of the tortilla.
4. Add a portion of the buffalo chicken mixture on top of the cheese.
5. Sprinkle some sliced green onions over the chicken.
6. Fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the underside is golden brown and crispy.
8. Carefully flip the quesadilla and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
9. Remove from the skillet and let it cool for a minute before slicing.
10. Serve with ranch dressing and garnish with cilantro if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Additionally, use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier twist, or try different cheeses like pepper jack for an extra kick.
Serving and Pairings
These buffalo chicken quesadillas pair perfectly with a side of celery sticks and carrot sticks. A refreshing cucumber salad or a bowl of chili can also complement the dish well.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. They can be frozen for up to 2 months; just make sure to separate them with parchment paper.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overfilling the quesadilla to prevent it from breaking.
– Don’t skip the oil; it helps create a crispy texture.
– Cook on medium heat to ensure even cooking without burning.
– Let the quesadilla sit for a minute after cooking before slicing.
– Use a non-stick skillet to avoid sticking issues.
Helpful Tips
– Experiment with different hot sauces for varied heat levels.
– Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
– Use a pizza cutter for quick and even slices.
– Serve with extra buffalo sauce on the side for dipping.
FAQs
Can I use any type of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any cooked chicken, such as rotisserie or grilled chicken. Just ensure it’s shredded for easy filling.
How spicy is this buffalo chicken quesadilla?
The spice level depends on the buffalo sauce you use. Opt for milder sauces if you prefer less heat.
Can I make these quesadillas in advance?
Yes, you can assemble quesadillas in advance and store them in the fridge. Just cook them right before serving.
What can I serve with buffalo chicken quesadillas?
These quesadillas pair well with ranch or blue cheese dressing, as well as fresh veggies like celery and carrots.
How do I make them healthier?
To make them healthier, use whole wheat tortillas, lean chicken, and reduce the amount of cheese used.
Conclusion
This buffalo chicken quesadilla recipe is a delicious and easy meal that everyone will love. Perfect for any occasion, it combines spicy, flavorful chicken with gooey cheese in a crispy tortilla. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just want a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress!
Buffalo Chicken Quesadilla
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup green onions sliced
- Olive oil for frying
- Cilantro for garnish optional
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken and buffalo sauce until well coated.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on one half of the tortilla.
- Add a portion of the buffalo chicken mixture on top of the cheese.
- Sprinkle some sliced green onions over the chicken.
- Fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until the underside is golden brown and crispy.
- Carefully flip the quesadilla and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Remove from the skillet and let it cool for a minute before slicing.
- Serve with ranch dressing and garnish with cilantro if desired.
