Quesadillas for Every Meal
Quesadillas are the underrated jacks-of-all-trades of the kitchen. Time and time again they prove to be dynamic, delicious, and an incredible time-saver. With just a few basic ingredients you can whip up a stellar quesadilla in under 20 minutes using almost anything in your fridge, making them perfect for those rushed mornings, busy weeknights, and quick snacks. Got leftovers you need to use up? Try using them in your quesadillas. Any kind of leftover chicken works perfectly for this dish, as do cooked or raw veggies, or just about anything else you’d want to eat between two crispy tortillas. Go ahead and get creative!
The simplicity of this dish makes it the ideal family meal. Kids can easily partake in the prep work and cooking and will enjoy the opportunity to get creative with their fillings. Try making an assembly line of toppings and letting everyone put together their dream quesadilla.
If you’re concerned about calories, fret not. It is very simple to substitute certain ingredients for health conscious alternatives. White flour tortillas can be swapped for whole wheat, barbecue chicken can be substituted for poached chicken breasts – all that’s left is to pack your quesadilla with tons of veggies and you’ve got yourself a nutritious, energizing meal.
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a meal of quesadillas:
- A non-stick frying pan or electric griddle
- Flour tortillas
- Grated cheese
- Cooked chicken
- Fillings of your choice! A few suggested fillings include avocado, bell peppers, jalapeños, black beans, cilantro, and chopped onion. Try sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for dipping.
Begin by preparing your ingredients. Cook your chicken, chop your veggies, and prepare any sauces, dips, or other ingredients you want to include. Next, layer your cheese and fillings between two flour tortillas. Heat your pan over medium heat and lightly coat with oil. Place your quesadilla in the pan and grill evenly on both sides until the tortillas are brown and crisp and the cheese is melted. And if frying isn’t your thing, quesadillas can easily be prepared in the oven. Simply assemble your quesadillas on a baking sheet and bake until golden brown. Serve with your choice of sides and enjoy!