Chicken and Rice Skillet Quesadilla Flavorful Dish

Looking for a simple yet delicious meal? Try my Chicken and Rice Skillet Quesadilla! This dish blends shredded chicken, rice, and spices, all stuffed in crispy tortillas with gooey cheese. It’s a fun way to enjoy a family-friendly dinner, and it’s easy to make! Let’s dive into the tasty ingredients and quick steps that will make this flavorful dish a hit on your dinner table.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)

– 1 cup bell pepper, diced

– 1 medium onion, diced

Seasoning and Extras

– 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 1 teaspoon chili powder

– Salt and black pepper, to taste

Tortilla and Cheese

– 4 large flour tortillas

– 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– Fresh cilantro for garnish

– Salsa for serving

When I prepare Chicken and Rice Skillet Quesadilla, I focus on using fresh, simple ingredients. The cooked chicken and rice form a hearty base. I like to use a mix of colors in my bell peppers. This adds a visual pop and flavor. The onion brings sweetness to the mix, making every bite delicious.

For seasoning, I add corn for sweetness and texture. Ground cumin and chili powder give the dish warmth and depth. A pinch of salt and black pepper rounds out the flavors.

Tortillas are the perfect vessel. I use large flour tortillas for a soft, chewy bite. The cheese is key; it melts beautifully and holds everything together. I prefer cheddar or Monterey Jack for their rich flavor.

This recipe is about balance. The fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness. Pairing with salsa makes every bite even better. For the full recipe, check out the details above.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Filling

– Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté onion and bell pepper.

– Cook them for about 4-5 minutes until soft.

– Add shredded chicken, rice, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

– Mix thoroughly and cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Assembling the Quesadilla

– Lay cheese on half of a tortilla.

– Spoon the chicken and rice mixture onto the cheese.

– Add more cheese on top for that gooey goodness.

Cooking the Quesadilla

– Cook the folded quesadilla until golden brown on both sides.

– This takes about 3-4 minutes per side.

– Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.

For a full recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. Enjoy making this tasty dish!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

– Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the ingredients. This helps cook the quesadilla evenly.

– Use a spatula for safe flipping. It keeps the quesadilla intact and prevents spills.

Serving Suggestions

– Serve with salsa and garnish with cilantro. This adds freshness and color to your plate.

– Pair with sour cream or guacamole for extra flavor. These dips complement the quesadilla’s richness.

Making it Family-Friendly

– Consider adjusting spice levels based on family preferences. Use less chili powder for milder taste.

– Allow children to help assemble for fun meal prep. They can add cheese and spoon the filling.

These tips will help you create a delicious Chicken and Rice Skillet Quesadilla that everyone will enjoy. For the full recipe, check out the details provided in the article.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can change the meat in this quesadilla. Try using beef or shrimp instead of chicken. This adds a new flavor twist. You can also swap brown rice for quinoa. Quinoa adds more protein and a unique texture.

Spice Levels

Adjust the spice in your quesadilla by changing the cumin and chili powder. More cumin gives a warm flavor, while extra chili powder can add heat. If you like it spicy, add some chopped jalapeños. This will bring a fun kick to your meal.

Cheese Alternatives

Cheese can change the whole taste of your quesadilla. You can try a blend of different cheeses. Mixing cheeses like mozzarella and pepper jack can create more depth. If you prefer dairy-free options, there are many great vegan cheeses available. They melt well and taste great, too.

Feel free to experiment with these variations to make your Chicken and Rice Skillet Quesadilla truly your own. For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].

Storage Info

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh. Consume within 3-4 days for the best taste.

Freezer Storage

You can freeze cooked quesadillas for up to 2 months. Just wrap them tightly. Reheat directly from frozen in a skillet for a crispy texture.

Reheating Instructions

Use a skillet for best results. A microwave is an option, but may not be as good. Make sure the cheese is melted through to keep that great flavor.

FAQs

Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?

Yes, prepare filling and assemble quesadillas ahead; just cook them when ready to serve. This can save you time on busy days. You can keep the filling in the fridge for a few days. Just make sure to warm it up before putting it in the tortillas.

What can I serve with Chicken and Rice Skillet Quesadilla?

Serve with fresh salads, chips and salsa, or a light soup. A refreshing salad adds crunch and a nice balance. You can also enjoy some guacamole or sour cream on the side. These options enhance the meal and make it more filling.

How can I make these quesadillas healthier?

Use whole grain tortillas and opt for reduced-fat cheese. This gives you the same great taste but with more fiber and less fat. Add more vegetables for added nutrition. Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms can boost the health factor. You might not even notice the difference in taste!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These quesadillas reheat well and are perfect for weekly meal prep. You can make a big batch and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat in a skillet or microwave when you’re ready to eat. This makes life so much easier during the week.

This blog post shared a simple recipe for chicken and rice quesadillas. You learned about the ingredients, easy steps to make them, and tips for serving. Variations allow you to customize your quesadillas to your taste. Plus, storage info helps keep your leftovers fresh.

In the end, these quesadillas are not just tasty but also fun for the whole family. Enjoy making and sharing this dish while getting creative with flavors!

Chicken and Rice Skillet Quesadilla

Indulge in a delicious Cheesy Chicken & Rice Skillet Quesadilla that’s perfect for any meal! This easy recipe combines shredded chicken, rice, colorful veggies, and gooey cheese all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up this crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress! Click to explore the full recipe and elevate your next dinner with this tasty twist on a classic quesadilla!

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Ingredients

  

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

1 cup cooked rice (either white or brown)

1 cup bell pepper, diced (for a colorful mix, use a variety of colors)

1 medium onion, diced

1 cup corn (fresh or frozen, your choice)

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder

Salt and black pepper, to taste

2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work beautifully)

4 large flour tortillas

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Salsa (for serving alongside)

Instructions

 

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Incorporate the cooked shredded chicken, rice, corn, cumin, chili powder, and season with salt and black pepper. Mix well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the mixture to heat through thoroughly.

Once heated, remove the chicken and rice mixture from the skillet and set aside in a bowl.

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Place one tortilla flat in the skillet and sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese over half of the tortilla.

Spoon a portion of the chicken and rice mixture over the cheese, then add another handful of cheese on top for extra gooeyness. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling completely.

Cook the folded quesadilla for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip the quesadilla using a spatula and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side until it is golden and the cheese is melted.

After cooking, remove the quesadilla from the skillet and allow it to rest for a minute before cutting it into wedges for easier serving.

Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling until all quesadillas are cooked and ready.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

- Presentation Tips: Arrange the quesadilla wedges on a colorful plate, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro and a small bowl of salsa for dipping. For an extra delicious touch, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or guacamole beside the quesadillas! Enjoy your delightful dish!