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Chicken avocado quesadillas always disappear fast at my table thanks to their gooey melted cheese and that fresh creamy avocado tucked inside. When I want something quick and extra satisfying for a weeknight dinner or even a late lunch, this recipe checks every box. Juicy seasoned chicken with caramelized veggies and those toasty golden tortillas make it irresistible.
I actually came up with this recipe one Sunday when I had leftover chicken and a lonely avocado in the crisper. Now we make these quesadillas almost every Taco Tuesday and my kids always ask for seconds.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Choose boneless and skinless for easy slicing and quicker cooking Fresh chicken stays juiciest
- Olive oil: Pick extra virgin for more flavor and to help everything brown
- Kosher salt and black pepper: Quality salt brings out chicken’s best taste always make sure pepper is freshly ground
- Onion: Use a small onion for sweetness Chop it finely for even cooking
- Bell peppers: Any color works but red and yellow are a touch sweeter and brighter Look for firm crisp peppers
- Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic gives the filling a warm bite Mince right before using
- Tomatoes: Ripe and firm tomatoes will not make the filling soggy Dice them small for easy scooping
- Fajita or taco seasoning: Store bought saves time Fajita blend has smokier notes or you can mix your own for extra flavor
- Flour tortillas: Go for medium sized that fit your pan and fold easily Look for soft fresh ones
- Avocado: Hass variety is creamy and perfect for slices Make sure it gives a bit when pressed gently
- Sour cream: Low fat for lighter texture but still creamy Spread thinly to blend flavors
- Mozzarella Mexican blend or cheddar cheese: Use freshly shredded for the best melt
- Lime juice: Fresh lime wakes up all the flavors Roll before juicing to get more out
- Cilantro: Fresh and bright Chop right before topping for aroma
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep and Cook the Chicken:
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt and black pepper. Heat a heavy pan with olive oil over high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about six minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Let the chicken rest before dicing so juices stay inside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Using the same pan add more olive oil. Toss in finely chopped onion bell pepper and garlic. Stir and cook over medium heat until soft and slightly caramelized. This takes about three minutes and builds sweet flavor.
- Make the Chicken Filling:
- Add diced tomatoes and fajita seasoning right into the cooked vegetables. Let tomatoes soften and the spices become fragrant for about two minutes. Dice the rested chicken and mix back into the pan until everything is evenly combined.
- Assemble the Quesadillas:
- Heat a clean pan with a little oil. Lay two flour tortillas flat and spread each with sour cream. Sprinkle with your choice of cheese then add slices of avocado and a scoop of the chicken mixture. Finish with fresh lime juice and cilantro.
- Cook to Perfection:
- Fold each tortilla over fillings into a half moon. Working in batches cook each quesadilla over medium heat until the tortillas are golden and crisp and the cheese is fully melted about two to three minutes per side.
- Slice and Serve:
- Cut the crispy quesadillas into wedges. Serve them hot with extra sour cream lime wedges or even your favorite salsa or guacamole.
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I never skip the avocado in these quesadillas The creamy bite with the hot melty cheese is a combo that surprises everyone When we make these with my family my daughter always wants to help slice the avocados and somehow she sneaks extra onto her own quesadilla
Storage Tips
Leftover quesadillas will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days Reheat them in a dry skillet to bring back the crisp tortilla Never microwave them straight unless you want them floppy
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have chicken you can use rotisserie or even cooked turkey Black beans make a nice vegetarian version For the cheese swap in Monterey Jack or even pepper jack if you like it spicier
Serving Suggestions
Set up a topping bar with salsa lime wedges guacamole and extra fresh cilantro A side of charred corn or a quick salad with lime vinaigrette pairs really nicely
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Cultural Context
Quesadillas have roots in Mexican cuisine and are famously versatile You will find so many versions from region to region Avocado and chicken bring a California twist to this comforting dish
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken for this dish?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken makes a convenient substitute. Just add it after sautéing vegetables and toss with seasoning before filling the tortillas.
- → What cheese works best in quesadillas?
Mexican blend, mozzarella, or cheddar melt well and add creamy texture. Choose your favorite or mix for extra flavor.
- → Are corn tortillas suitable for this preparation?
Corn tortillas can be used, though they may be more fragile. Warm them slightly before filling to avoid cracking when folded.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Add chopped jalapeños, use a spicy taco seasoning, or include a dash of hot sauce in the filling for extra heat.
- → Is there a dairy-free alternative for sour cream and cheese?
Yes, substitute with plant-based sour cream and dairy-free cheese shreds. They melt and spread similarly to regular options.