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Smoky Grilled Chicken Quesadilla – Easy & Flavorful Recipe

This Grilled Chicken Quesadilla features juicy, marinated chicken, smoky grilled bell peppers, caramelized onions, and gooey melted cheese, all sandwiched between crispy golden tortillas.
Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Total Time 25 mins
Cooking Method: , ,
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 4
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year
Dietary: High-protein
Description

This Grilled Chicken Quesadilla features juicy, marinated chicken, smoky grilled bell peppers, caramelized onions, and gooey melted cheese, all sandwiched between crispy golden tortillas. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this flavorful quesadilla is easy to make and packed with restaurant-style taste. Serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream!

For the Marinated Grilled Chicken:
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ¼ tsp dried oregano
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp salt
    • For the Quesadilla Filling:
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1/2 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1/2 small onion, sliced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter (for cooking)
  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
  • 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1
    Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
    • In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, black pepper, and salt.
    • Add the chicken breasts and coat them evenly in the marinade.
    • Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
  2. 2
    Step 2: Grill the Chicken & Vegetables
    • Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
    • Add 1 tbsp olive oil and cook the chicken breasts for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F / 75°C).
    • Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.
    • In the same skillet, add bell peppers and onions. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until they become soft and slightly charred. Remove from heat.
  3. 3
    Step 3: Assemble the Quesadillas
    • Place a flour tortilla in a clean skillet over medium-low heat.
    • Sprinkle ¼ cup of shredded cheese on half of the tortilla.
    • Layer sliced grilled chicken, sautéed peppers, and onions on top of the cheese.
    • Add another ¼ cup of cheese, then fold the tortilla in half.
    • Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until golden brown and crispy.
    • Remove from the skillet and repeat with the remaining tortillas.
  4. 4
    Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
    • Cut the quesadillas into triangles and serve warm.
    • Pair with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
    • Garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra pop of flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 513kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Carbohydrate 40.5g14%
Protein 30.2g61%

* 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

Tips & Variations:

✅ Extra Crispy: Brush tortillas with butter before cooking.
✅ Spicy Option: Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
✅ Cheese Choices: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or Oaxaca cheese.
✅ Make it Vegetarian: Swap chicken for grilled mushrooms or black beans.

Keywords: Grilled Chicken Quesadilla, Mexican-inspired meals, Quick and easy skillet recipes
Read it online: https://cookatouille.com/recipe/smoky-chicken-quesadilla/

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