These Cheesy Garlic Chicken Quesadillas are the perfect balance of bold flavor, melty cheese, and tender chicken. Seasoned with garlic, paprika, and onion powder, then combined with a creamy garlic sauce and two kinds of cheese, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality quesadillas right at home. Quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying, they’re ideal for busy weeknights, casual lunches, or game-day meals.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
- Busy home cooks looking for a fast, filling meal
- Cheese lovers who crave gooey, melty goodness
- Families needing an easy dinner everyone will enjoy
- Beginner cooks who want a foolproof recipe
- Anyone who loves bold garlic flavor in simple comfort food
Why It’s Great
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes
- Loaded with Flavor: Garlic-seasoned chicken and creamy sauce
- Ultra Cheesy: Cheddar and mozzarella melt beautifully
- Versatile: Great for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for sharing or serving guests
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
- ½ cup creamy garlic sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh chopped parsley, optional garnish
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Non-stick skillet or frying pan
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Place the diced chicken in a bowl. Add olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss well until all pieces are evenly coated.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and lightly browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Quesadillas
Lay the tortillas flat. Spread a thin layer of creamy garlic sauce over half of each tortilla. Add cooked chicken, then sprinkle with cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
Step 4: Cook the Quesadillas
Fold each tortilla in half. Place them back into the skillet over medium heat and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
Step 5: Serve
Remove from the skillet, slice into wedges, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the oven for best texture.
- Freezer: Freeze assembled (uncooked) quesadillas for up to 1 month.
FAQ
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes! Monterey Jack, Colby-Jack, or pepper jack work great.
Can I make this spicy?
Absolutely—add chili flakes, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes. Cook the chicken ahead of time and assemble fresh when ready to eat.
Can I use leftover chicken?
Definitely. Rotisserie or grilled chicken works perfectly.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Garlic Chicken Quesadillas are a simple yet irresistible meal that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Crispy on the outside, melty on the inside, and packed with garlicky goodness, they’re sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself, this recipe never disappoints.
