Shredded Chicken Quesadilla Bake
Highlighted under: Family Quick Meals Inspiration
I love making Shredded Chicken Quesadilla Bake for a quick yet satisfying meal. This dish combines tender, shredded chicken with melty cheese and crispy tortillas, all baked to perfection. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken and brings together the rich flavors of tex-mex cuisine in a simple, hands-off way. Every bite is bursting with flavor, and the best part? It’s ready in just 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
When I first tried making this Shredded Chicken Quesadilla Bake, I was amazed at how easy and delicious it turned out. I wanted something hearty and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe delivers just that! The slow-cooked chicken is so flavorful, and layering it with cheese and tortillas creates a mouthwatering texture that I absolutely adore.
To make this dish even better, I recommend using a combination of mozzarella and cheddar cheese for a more complex flavor and gooeyness. Every time I prepare this, my family can’t get enough of it, and it’s quickly become a household favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Cheesy goodness that satisfies every craving
- Easy to prepare, great for meal prep
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables or spices
Perfecting Your Layers
The key to a successful Shredded Chicken Quesadilla Bake lies in how you layer the ingredients. Start by using a shallow baking dish that allows for even heat distribution. This will help ensure that the tortillas crisp up nicely, while the cheese melts perfectly. Make sure each tortilla is evenly coated with the chicken mixture and cheese to avoid dry spots. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a layer of refried beans or guacamole in the middle for extra creaminess and flavor.
When assembling, it’s important to press down gently on each layer to compact the ingredients slightly. This helps to meld the flavors and ensures that slices hold together well after baking. I’ve found that using a spatula can help carefully lift the assembled bake into the oven without disturbing the layers too much—a helpful tip, especially if you’re using a filled dish.
Customizing Your Quesadilla Bake
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. If you have leftover veggies in your fridge, such as bell peppers, corn, or spinach, feel free to toss those into the chicken mixture. Just remember that any additional ingredients should be pre-cooked and chopped small to ensure even cooking. This not only enhances the dish's nutrition but also adds layers of texture and flavor that can elevate your dinner.
For those looking to spice things up, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to the mixture for a bit of heat. Additionally, if you focus on dietary needs, swapping out the flour tortillas for whole-wheat or gluten-free varieties works surprisingly well without compromising the overall taste of the dish.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients before you start:
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to go!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make your Quesadilla Bake:
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the chicken mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, salsa, green onions, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
Assemble the bake
Spread a little olive oil on a baking dish, then lay one tortilla down. Layer half of the chicken mixture on top, add another tortilla, and repeat. Finish with the last tortilla on top.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is melted.
Serve
Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into wedges. Enjoy with sour cream or additional salsa!
And there you have it! A delicious quesadilla bake ready to be devoured.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to add black beans, corn, or other veggies to the chicken mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This Quesadilla Bake is an excellent candidate for meal prep! You can assemble it a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This not only saves time on busy weeknights, but it also allows the flavors to meld even more as they sit. Just be mindful to add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if cooking directly from the fridge.
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, place a damp paper towel over the slices in the microwave to prevent them from drying out. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the quesadilla to regain some crispness.
Serving Suggestions
To make this dish even more enjoyable, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or a side of Mexican street corn. The crunch and acidity from the salad will beautifully complement the cheesy, rich quesadilla. You can also add a dollop of sour cream mixed with lime juice for a refreshing zing that cuts through the richness.
For a family-friendly option, set up a toppings bar with jalapeños, guacamole, diced avocados, and extra salsa. This not only makes serving a breeze but allows everyone to customize their slices to their liking—perfect for picky eaters or those who enjoy experimenting with flavors!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use raw chicken in this recipe?
No, it's best to use cooked shredded chicken. Leftover rotisserie chicken works great!
→ What can I substitute for tortillas?
You can use corn tortillas or even a low-carb alternative if you prefer.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
→ Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled quesadilla bake before baking. Just thaw and bake when ready to serve!
Shredded Chicken Quesadilla Bake
I love making Shredded Chicken Quesadilla Bake for a quick yet satisfying meal. This dish combines tender, shredded chicken with melty cheese and crispy tortillas, all baked to perfection. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken and brings together the rich flavors of tex-mex cuisine in a simple, hands-off way. Every bite is bursting with flavor, and the best part? It’s ready in just 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Created by: Thea Montgomery
Recipe Type: Family Quick Meals Inspiration
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, salsa, green onions, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
Spread a little olive oil on a baking dish, then lay one tortilla down. Layer half of the chicken mixture on top, add another tortilla, and repeat. Finish with the last tortilla on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is melted.
Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into wedges. Enjoy with sour cream or additional salsa!
Extra Tips
- Feel free to add black beans, corn, or other veggies to the chicken mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 30g