Name: Buffalo Chicken Quesadilla
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked (shredded chicken); 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 4 large flour tortillas; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

If you’re in the mood for a spicy, cheesy delight, this buffalo chicken quesadilla recipe is just what you need! Perfect as a quick meal or a party appetizer, these quesadillas are filled with shredded chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, and melty cheese. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Get ready to indulge in a burst of flavor with every bite!

Ingredients

– 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is 15 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 quesadilla) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Fat: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fiber: 2g

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken and buffalo sauce. Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and let it warm for a minute.
4. On one half of the tortilla, layer half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
5. Add a generous portion of the buffalo chicken mixture on top of the cheese.
6. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the chicken.
7. Fold the tortilla in half, covering the filling.
8. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side, until golden brown.
9. Carefully flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the other side is golden and the cheese melts.
10. Remove from the skillet, cut into wedges, and serve hot.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute the chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken or use tofu for a vegetarian version. Additionally, try different cheeses like pepper jack for an extra kick or whole grain tortillas for a healthier option.

Serving and Pairings

These buffalo chicken quesadillas pair wonderfully with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Serve with a side of celery sticks or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through. You can also freeze quesadillas before cooking; just thaw and cook from frozen.

Cooking Mistakes

Using too much sauce can make the quesadillas soggy.
Not allowing the cheese to melt properly can lead to a dry texture.
Overcooking on high heat may burn the tortillas.
Skipping the oil can cause sticking to the skillet.
Not folding the quesadilla properly can result in spilling during cooking.

Helpful Tips

For added flavor, marinate chicken in buffalo sauce before cooking.
Experiment with different fillings like sautéed peppers or onions.
Use a non-stick skillet to reduce the amount of oil needed.
Let the quesadillas rest for a minute before cutting to prevent spilling.

FAQs

Can I make buffalo chicken quesadillas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the quesadillas ahead of time. Just refrigerate them and cook when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of buffalo sauce?

You can use a mix of hot sauce and melted butter for a homemade buffalo sauce, or try a milder wing sauce if you prefer less heat.

Are these quesadillas spicy?

The level of spiciness depends on the buffalo sauce used. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Can I add vegetables to the quesadillas?

Absolutely! Adding bell peppers, onions, or spinach can enhance the flavor and add nutrition.

How do I keep my quesadillas crispy?

Make sure not to overload them with filling, as this can make them soggy. Cooking them on medium heat also helps maintain crispiness.

Conclusion

This buffalo chicken quesadilla recipe is a delightful blend of flavors, perfect for any occasion. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Whether it’s game day or a casual dinner, these quesadillas are sure to impress!