Creamy Chicken Shrimp Spinach Quesadillas

Category: Food That Makes People Think You've Got Life Figured Out

These quesadillas feature shredded chicken, tender shrimp, and fresh spinach combined in a creamy sauce enriched with cream cheese and melted mozzarella and cheddar. The filling is seasoned with Cajun spices and sautéed garlic for a flavorful boost. After folding the filling inside warm flour tortillas, they are toasted until crisp and golden brown. This quick and tasty dish blends a mix of textures and flavors, perfect for sharing at family dinners or gatherings.

Lili Clark smiling at the camera.
Created By Lili Clark
Updated on Thu, 05 Mar 2026 23:22:03 GMT
A plate of chicken, shrimp and spinach quesadillas. Save
A plate of chicken, shrimp and spinach quesadillas. | lilicooks.com

Recipe FAQs

→ What spices make the filling flavorful?

The mixture includes Cajun seasoning, paprika, black pepper, onion powder, and a touch of chili flakes for mild heat and aromatic depth.

→ How do you avoid soggy quesadillas with spinach?

Make sure to drain the cooked spinach thoroughly before adding it to the filling to maintain crispiness when toasting.

→ Can I substitute the cheeses used in this dish?

Cheddar and mozzarella blend for a smooth melt and balanced flavor, but you can try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a variation.

→ What is the best method to cook the filling ingredients?

Sauté shrimp first with butter and oil, then cook seasoned chicken and spinach, followed by making a creamy sauce to combine all elements evenly.

→ What sides pair well with these quesadillas?

They go well with creamy cilantro dip or a spicy chipotle mayo, adding complementary flavors to each bite.

→ How should the quesadillas be toasted?

Toast them in butter over medium heat until both sides turn golden and crisp, ensuring a satisfying crunch and warm filling.

Chicken Shrimp Spinach Quesadillas

Golden tortillas filled with tender chicken, shrimp, spinach, and a creamy, cheesy filling with Cajun spices.

Preparation Time
10 min
Cooking Time
15 min
Overall Time
25 min
Created By: Lili Clark

Category: Snacks

Skill Level: Moderate

Cuisine Type: Tex-Mex Fusion

Output: 4 Serves (4 quesadillas)

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients

→ Protein

01 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
02 1 cup peeled and deveined shrimp

→ Vegetables

03 2 cups fresh spinach, well drained
04 3 cloves garlic, minced

→ Dairy

05 1 cup heavy cream
06 ½ cup cream cheese
07 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
08 ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
09 1 tbsp butter
10 Butter for toasting tortillas

→ Spices and Seasonings

11 1 tbsp olive oil
12 ½ tsp paprika
13 ½ tsp black pepper
14 ½ tsp salt
15 ½ tsp onion powder
16 ½ tsp Cajun seasoning
17 ¼ tsp chili flakes

→ Other

18 Flour tortillas

Steps

Step 01

Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp seasoned with Cajun spices and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Step 02

In the same skillet, add cooked shredded chicken, paprika, and black pepper. Stir and cook for 2 minutes to warm through and develop flavor.

Step 03

Incorporate the drained spinach into the skillet and cook until wilted, stirring occasionally.

Step 04

Add minced garlic, heavy cream, and cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the mixture is smooth. Then add mozzarella, cheddar, salt, onion powder, and chili flakes, stirring until cheese melts and sauce is creamy.

Step 05

Return cooked shrimp to the skillet and fold into the creamy mixture, combining all ingredients evenly.

Step 06

Place a portion of the filling onto one half of each flour tortilla. Fold tortillas over and toast them in a buttered skillet until golden brown and crisp on both sides.

Step 07

Slice the quesadillas and serve immediately, optionally accompanied by creamy cilantro dip or spicy mayonnaise.

Tips

  1. Drain spinach thoroughly before cooking to prevent soggy filling.
  2. Combining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses achieves optimal melt and flavor.
  3. Pairs well with creamy cilantro dip or chipotle mayonnaise.

Required Tools

  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Spatula

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Contains dairy, shellfish, and gluten

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 480
  • Fats: 28 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Proteins: 32 g