Sheet Pan Quesadillas Chicken

Sheet Pan Quesadillas Chicken is the perfect combination of simplicity, flavor, and convenience, making it an ideal dish for any busy weeknight. This recipe brings the beloved quesadilla to a whole new level by cooking everything in one pan, allowing for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a gathering, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Quesadillas are a staple in Mexican cuisine, and by transforming them into a sheet pan dish, you can enjoy the crispy edges, melted cheese, and tender chicken without standing over a stovetop flipping individual quesadillas.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility you can add your favorite fillings, spices, and toppings to customize the flavors to your liking.

Let’s dive into this easy and delicious one-pan chicken quesadilla recipe!

Recipe Preparation Equipment

Before you start preparing your sheet pan quesadillas chicken, ensure you have the following kitchen equipment:

1. Sheet Pan – A standard-sized baking sheet is perfect for this recipe.
2. Sharp Knife – To chop chicken and other ingredients.
3. Cutting Board – For cutting your ingredients safely and efficiently.
4. Large Mixing Bowl – To combine chicken and seasonings.
5. Spatula – For flipping the quesadillas and serving.
6. Cooking Spray or Oil – To prevent the quesadillas from sticking to the sheet pan.

What Do You Need to Prepare Sheet Pan Quesadillas Chicken?

Here’s what you’ll need to gather before starting:

• Chicken Breast – 2 large breasts, boneless and skinless (can substitute with thighs for extra flavor).
• Flour Tortillas – 4 large (preferably soft and pliable).
• Cheddar Cheese – 1 ½ cups, shredded.
• Mozzarella Cheese – 1 ½ cups, shredded.
• Red Bell Pepper – 1 medium, diced.
• Yellow Onion – 1 medium, diced.
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced.
• Cilantro – Fresh, chopped (for garnish).
• Sour Cream – For serving.
• Salsa – For serving.
• Chili Powder – 1 tablespoon.
• Ground Cumin – 1 teaspoon.
• Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon.
• Salt and Pepper – To taste.
• Lime – For garnish.

How to Make Easy Sheet Pan Quesadillas Chicken Step-by-Step ?

Follow these simple steps to make your Sheet Pan Quesadillas Chicken:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil to the skillet. Season your chicken breasts with chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Sear the chicken breasts in the skillet for 5-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes. After resting, shred the chicken using two forks.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will allow the quesadillas to bake perfectly, creating that golden, crispy texture.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken is cooking, dice the red bell pepper and yellow onion. In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary and sauté the diced vegetables over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic in the last minute of cooking. Set the vegetables aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Quesadillas

On a large sheet pan, arrange two tortillas side by side. Evenly distribute half of the shredded chicken on top of one tortilla, then add half of the sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle a generous amount of both cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the chicken and vegetables. Place the second tortilla on top to create a sandwich-like structure. Repeat this process with the remaining ingredients to create a second quesadilla.

Step 5: Bake

Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a minute before cutting into squares.

Variations

One of the great things about sheet pan quesadillas chicken is how adaptable the recipe is. You can customize it to fit your personal preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are a few variations to try:

• Vegetarian Quesadillas: Substitute the chicken with black beans, sautéed mushrooms, or even roasted cauliflower for a vegetarian twist. The cheese, veggies, and spices will still provide plenty of flavor.
• Spicy Chicken Quesadillas: For a kick of heat, add diced jalapeños or chili peppers to the filling. You can also incorporate hot sauce or a spicy salsa to give the quesadillas an extra burst of flavor.
• Gluten-Free Quesadillas: If you’re avoiding gluten, use gluten-free tortillas in place of regular flour tortillas. Many grocery stores now offer a variety of gluten-free tortilla options that work just as well in this recipe.
• BBQ Chicken Quesadillas: Swap the chili powder and cumin for your favorite BBQ sauce. You can even add grilled corn or pickles to give it a fun twist.

Cooking Note

When preparing sheet pan quesadillas, timing is crucial to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust while ensuring the cheese melts just right. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure the tortillas and fillings are spread out evenly on the sheet pan. Overcrowding can cause the quesadillas to become soggy rather than crispy.
• Layering: For the best results, layer the chicken and vegetables evenly between the tortillas. The cheese should be on top of the filling, as it helps seal everything together when it melts.
• Resting the Chicken: After cooking the chicken, allow it to rest for a few minutes before shredding. This helps retain moisture, ensuring the chicken stays juicy.
• Cheese: Use a combination of cheddar and mozzarella for the best melt. Cheddar adds sharp flavor, while mozzarella offers the stretchiness you want in quesadillas.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your sheet pan quesadillas chicken with a side of tangy salsa, cool sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. These quesadillas are delicious on their own but can be paired with a light salad or some crispy tortilla chips for added texture. If you want to add some color, try serving the quesadillas with some sliced avocado or guacamole for extra creaminess.

For a complete meal, pair your quesadillas with a refreshing Mexican corn salad or a simple cucumber and tomato salad with lime dressing. The possibilities for sides are endless, but these light, fresh dishes will complement the hearty quesadillas perfectly.

Helpful Tips

Here are a few tips to make your sheet pan quesadillas chicken even better:

1. Use Room Temperature Tortillas: If your tortillas are too cold or stiff, they can break when you’re assembling the quesadillas. Let them come to room temperature first for better flexibility.
2. Crisp Up the Edges: For extra crunch, brush the tops of the tortillas with a little olive oil before baking. This will give the quesadillas a golden, crispy finish.
3. Avoid Overstuffing: While it’s tempting to pile on the ingredients, overstuffing the quesadillas can make them difficult to bake evenly. Stick to a thin layer of filling for the best results.
4. Shredded Chicken: For the most tender chicken, use a rotisserie chicken or cook the chicken breasts ahead of time for a faster prep time.
5. Use a Pizza Cutter: When it’s time to cut the quesadillas, use a pizza cutter for smooth, even slices.

Tips for the Best Sheet Pan Quesadillas Chicken

To ensure your sheet pan quesadillas chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips:

• Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on your quesadillas while they’re baking. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the cheese should be melted. If they’re getting too crispy too quickly, lower the oven temperature slightly.
• Use Fresh Tortillas: Fresh tortillas will hold up better in the oven and have a better texture than older ones, which can become too dry.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Step: Allow the chicken to rest before shredding. This keeps it juicy and ensures your quesadillas won’t be dry.
• Experiment with Flavors: Play with different spices and fillings to create your perfect quesadilla. Whether you prefer mild or spicy, there’s no wrong way to make this dish.

Timing Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 400-450 per serving (based on a 4-serving recipe)
• Protein: 35g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 20g (including healthy fats from olive oil)

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FAQs

Can I use a different protein? Yes! Feel free to substitute the chicken with ground beef, pork, or even vegetarian options like black beans.

Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the quesadillas ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Bake them when you’re ready to serve!

How can I make this recipe spicier? Add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling to give your quesadillas an extra kick!

Conclusion

Sheet pan quesadillas chicken is the ultimate combination of ease, flavor, and satisfaction. With just a few simple ingredients and a single sheet pan, you can create a delicious meal that everyone will love.

Customize it to suit your preferences, and enjoy this simple yet hearty dish any night of the week!

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