Name: Chicken Sheet Pan Quesadilla
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded; 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 small red onion, diced; 8 large flour tortillas; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste

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This Chicken Sheet Pan Quesadilla is a delightful spin on a classic. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With seasoned shredded chicken, gooey cheese, and colorful bell peppers baked to perfection, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. You’ll love how simple it is to make while delivering maximum flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 15 minutes of prep time, making it ideal for busy evenings.
One-Pan Wonder: Bake everything in one pan for easy clean-up, so you can enjoy dinner without the hassle.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of chicken, cheese, and spices offers a satisfying taste that everyone will enjoy.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your family’s tastes.
Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for parties or game nights, serving multiple people with ease.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your experience smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Aluminum foil
Mixing bowl
Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for even cooking and easy access to all corners of your quesadilla.
Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine ingredients thoroughly for consistent flavor throughout the dish.
Aluminum foil: Helps achieve a crispy top while keeping moisture in during the initial baking phase.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 small red onion, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 large flour tortillas
Cooking spray

Optional for Serving:
– Sour cream
– Salsa
– Guacamole

How to Make Chicken Sheet Pan Quesadilla

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray it with cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. Shredded chicken
2. 1 cup of cheese
3. Diced red bell pepper
4. Diced green bell pepper
5. Diced red onion
6. Olive oil
7. Chili powder
8. Cumin
9. Garlic powder
10. Salt and pepper

Mix thoroughly until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Quesadilla

Lay out four tortillas on the prepared baking sheet so they overlap slightly. Spread the chicken mixture evenly over these tortillas, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top before covering with the other four tortillas, pressing gently to seal.

Step 4: Bake

Cover the assembled quesadilla with a piece of foil and use another baking sheet on top to weigh it down. Bake for about 20 minutes.

Step 5: Finish Baking

After removing the top baking sheet and foil, bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Serve alongside sour cream, salsa, and guacamole if desired. Enjoy this delicious Chicken Sheet Pan Quesadilla!

How to Serve Chicken Sheet Pan Quesadilla

Serving Chicken Sheet Pan Quesadilla is simple and fun. You can create a delicious meal by pairing it with various toppings and sides that complement its flavors.

Toppings

Sour Cream: A classic addition that adds creaminess and balances the spices.
Salsa: Choose your favorite salsa for a fresh, zesty kick that enhances every bite.
Guacamole: Rich and creamy, guacamole pairs perfectly with the cheesy quesadilla.

Salad Pairings

Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant salad adds sweetness and texture, making it a great side.
Cilantro Lime Rice: A flavorful rice dish that brings a zesty touch to your plate.
Avocado Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad complements the quesadilla wonderfully.

Drinks

Margaritas: A classic cocktail that pairs well with Mexican flavors.
Iced Tea: A refreshing non-alcoholic option to enjoy with your meal.

How to Perfect Chicken Sheet Pan Quesadilla

To make the best Chicken Sheet Pan Quesadilla, consider these helpful tips for an even tastier dish.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture in your quesadilla.
Don’t Overfill: Avoid overfilling the tortillas; this helps keep them crispy and manageable.
Press Down Gently: When layering, press down gently to ensure all ingredients meld together nicely.
Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak spices according to your taste preferences for a personalized touch.
Let It Rest Before Cutting: Allowing the quesadilla to rest ensures cleaner slices and better presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Sheet Pan Quesadilla

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Sheet Pan Quesadilla can elevate your meal experience. Here are some tasty options to consider:

Mexican Rice: Flavored with tomatoes and spices, this rice makes a hearty side.
Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add richness and complement the quesadilla perfectly.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness to balance out savory flavors.
Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips with salsa offer a delightful contrast in texture.
Pico de Gallo: This fresh tomato salsa adds brightness and freshness alongside your meal.
Black Bean Salad: A protein-packed salad that is both nutritious and flavorful, perfect for balancing the cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Chicken Sheet Pan Quesadilla can be easy, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

Overfilling the quesadilla: Adding too much filling can make it difficult to seal and cook evenly. Stick to the recommended amount of filling for best results.
Skipping the preheating step: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat to ensure a crispy, golden finish.
Using low-quality tortillas: Cheap or stale tortillas may tear during baking. Opt for fresh, high-quality flour tortillas for the best texture.
Not letting it cool before slicing: Cutting into the quesadilla immediately can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to rest for a few minutes for cleaner slices.
Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning your chicken can lead to bland quesadillas. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before assembling.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
Can be stored for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Sheet Pan Quesadilla

Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
Place in an airtight freezer bag or container.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chicken Sheet Pan Quesadilla

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in short increments (30 seconds) until warm. This may soften the quesadilla.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat. Cover with a lid and heat for about 5 minutes on each side until warmed and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Chicken Sheet Pan Quesadilla?

A Chicken Sheet Pan Quesadilla is a large, baked quesadilla made with shredded chicken, cheese, and vegetables all baked on one sheet pan, making it easy for serving.

How long does it take to make Chicken Sheet Pan Quesadilla?

This recipe takes about 40 minutes in total, with 15 minutes of prep time and approximately 25 minutes of cooking time.

Can I customize my Chicken Sheet Pan Quesadilla?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients like black beans, corn, or different types of cheese based on your taste preferences.

How do I store leftover Chicken Sheet Pan Quesadilla?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them wrapped tightly for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Sheet Pan Quesadilla is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this dish promises satisfaction with minimal effort. Give it a try!