Quesadillas are a popular and classic Mexican dish. They are incredibly versatile and can be made with a variety of fillings to suit your taste buds. One delicious twist on a traditional quesadilla is the combination of chicken, veggies, and pesto.

This mouthwatering fusion of flavors creates a delightful meal that is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather the necessary ingredients:.

4 large flour tortillas
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced
1 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/4 cup fresh pesto
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make the most delicious chicken, veggie, and pesto quesadillas:.

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the bell peppers and red onions and sauté them until they become tender and slightly caramelized. Season them with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Once cooked, set them aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Quesadillas

Place a flour tortilla on a clean surface or cutting board. Spread a generous amount of pesto sauce evenly over the tortilla. Next, layer on the cooked shredded chicken, sautéed bell peppers and onions, cherry tomatoes, and shredded Monterey Jack cheese.

Make sure to evenly distribute the ingredients to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Quesadillas

Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Carefully transfer the assembled quesadilla to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the tortilla becomes crispy and the cheese melts to create a gooey filling.

Repeat this process for the remaining quesadillas.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the quesadillas from the skillet and place them on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to slice them into triangles or wedges.

Serve the quesadillas hot with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, such as salsa or sour cream. These quesadillas also pair well with a fresh green salad.

Variations

If you want to add an extra kick to your quesadillas, feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. Here are a few variations you can try:.

1. Spicy Jalapenos

If you enjoy spicy food, add some sliced jalapenos to your quesadilla. The heat from the jalapenos will complement the other flavors and give your quesadillas an extra kick.

2. Black Beans

For a vegetarian twist, include a layer of black beans in your quesadilla. Black beans are not only packed with protein but also add a creamy texture to the overall dish.

3. Avocado Slices

For a creamy and refreshing element, add some slices of ripe avocado to your quesadillas. The buttery flavor of avocado pairs perfectly with the other ingredients, creating a delicious combination.

4. Different Cheese Varieties

While Monterey Jack cheese is commonly used in quesadillas, feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even feta can add a unique twist to your quesadillas.

Bonus Tip

If you want to save time, you can prepare the chicken, sautéed vegetables, and pesto in advance. Simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble the quesadillas.

This will make the cooking process much quicker and easier, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.