Quesadillas are a kid favorite, and our Chicken and Veggie Quesadilla Delight is a nutritious twist on this classic dish. Using whole wheat tortillas, these quesadillas are packed with shredded chicken, gooey cheese, and a mix of sautéed bell peppers and onions. Perfect for a quick dinner or a tasty lunch, this protein-rich meal is loaded with veggies and will surely become a family favorite.
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Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 1 quesadilla
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
Ingredients
- 4 whole wheat tortillas
- 250g (2 cups) cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 200g (2 cups) shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Salsa and sour cream for serving
Method of Preparation
- Sauté the Veggies: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender. Season with ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare the Quesadillas: Lay out the whole wheat tortillas on a flat surface. On one half of each tortilla, evenly distribute the shredded chicken, sautéed veggies, and shredded cheese.
- Cook the Quesadillas: Fold the tortillas in half to cover the filling. Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook each quesadilla for 3-4 minutes per side, until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the quesadillas from the skillet and let them cool slightly. Cut into triangles and serve with salsa and sour cream.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken.
- Customize Your Veggies: Add other veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Keep the Tortillas Crisp: Cook the quesadillas over medium heat to ensure the tortillas become crispy without burning.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend for varied flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the quesadillas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Cook them just before serving to keep them fresh and crispy.
- Q: What can I serve with these quesadillas? A: These quesadillas pair well with a side salad, guacamole, or a bowl of tortilla soup for a complete meal.
- Q: Can I freeze the quesadillas? A: Yes, you can freeze assembled, uncooked quesadillas. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze. Cook them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Q: Are there vegetarian options for this recipe? A: Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add more veggies or beans for a vegetarian version.
Treat your family to the wholesome and delicious Chicken and Veggie Quesadilla Delight. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a satisfying and nutritious meal that kids and adults alike will love. Enjoy the savory blend of chicken, cheese, and veggies wrapped in a crispy whole wheat tortilla!