The Chicken Quesadilla from Chipotle features tender grilled chicken, melted Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses, sauteed peppers and onions, all toasted inside a warm, golden flour tortilla, delivering a savory and satisfying blend of smoky and cheesy flavors.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Sauté pan or skillet
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese grater
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Plate or serving tray
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless skinless chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 small yellow onion
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
Using boneless skinless chicken breast ensures tender meat that absorbs spices like cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic, and onion powders evenly for a smoky, flavorful profile. Fresh red and green bell peppers along with a small yellow onion add vibrant color and a natural sweetness that balances the dish. Shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses create the creamy, melty texture essential for an authentic quesadilla experience. Opt for large flour tortillas to hold all ingredients securely while achieving a crispy, golden exterior on the grill or pan. Your Chicken Quesadilla copycat from Chipotle will deliver a perfect blend of smoky, cheesy, and savory flavors just like the original.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan.
- Slice chicken breast into thin strips on cutting board.
- In mixing bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Toss chicken strips in spice mixture to coat evenly.
- Grill chicken until cooked through; remove and set aside on plate.
- Slice red and green bell peppers and yellow onion.
- Heat sauté pan or skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced peppers and onion; sauté until softened.
- Grate Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses using cheese grater.
- Lay out flour tortillas on flat surface.
- Sprinkle shredded cheeses evenly on half of each tortilla.
- Layer grilled chicken and sautéed peppers/onions over cheese.
- Fold tortillas in half to enclose filling.
- Return quesadillas to grill or skillet; toast on both sides until golden brown and cheese melts.
- Remove from heat, transfer to plate or serving tray.
- Slice quesadillas with knife.
- Serve warm.
Substitution
The Chicken Quesadilla from Chipotle copycat menu combines smoky grilled chicken with a melty blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses, complemented by sauteed bell peppers and onions, all wrapped in a warm flour tortilla. You can substitute chicken breast with thigh meat for a juicier texture, or use a grill pan if an outdoor grill isn't available. If you don't have Monterey Jack cheese, mozzarella or a mild Monterey Jack alternative will work fine. For the peppers, you may opt for poblano or Anaheim peppers if you prefer a milder heat. Ensure to cook the quesadilla on medium heat to avoid burning the tortilla while achieving a gooey cheese melt.
Tips
Make sure to preheat your grill or skillet thoroughly before cooking to achieve even cooking and a perfect sear on the chicken strips. Use a sharp knife when slicing the chicken and vegetables to ensure clean cuts, which helps with even cooking and presentation. When layering the quesadilla, distribute the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses evenly to ensure every bite is gooey and flavorful. To prevent the tortillas from burning, monitor the heat closely and flip the quesadilla carefully with tongs or a spatula once the cheese starts melting.
Nutritions
The Chicken Quesadilla from Chipotle provides a high-protein meal with approximately 35 grams of protein per serving, mainly from the grilled chicken breast. Your quesadilla also delivers a substantial amount of calcium and vitamin D from the melted Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses, supporting bone health. Sauteed bell peppers and onions contribute dietary fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins like vitamin C, enhancing the dish's nutritional profile. With healthy fats from olive oil and a balanced blend of spices, this meal offers a flavorful yet nutritious option for lunch or dinner.
Storage
Store any leftover chicken quesadilla in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent drying out. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking and consume within 3-4 days for optimal safety and flavor. When reheating, use a skillet or grill to restore the crispy texture and melted cheese, keeping your quesadilla enjoyable as if freshly made.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, try swapping the chicken breast with shredded rotisserie chicken or diced cooked shrimp for a different protein profile. Use pepper jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack to add a spicy kick that complements the smoky seasonings. You can also replace the flour tortillas with whole wheat or corn tortillas to increase fiber content and add a slightly different texture. Consider adding a dollop of guacamole or a drizzle of chipotle sauce inside before folding to enhance creaminess and elevate your quesadilla's flavor.
Allergies
The Chicken Quesadilla from Chipotle contains common allergens such as dairy from Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses, and gluten from the flour tortillas, which may cause reactions for those with lactose intolerance or celiac disease. The grilled chicken and spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder generally pose lower allergy risks but could still affect individuals with specific sensitivities. Be sure to review all ingredients carefully to ensure your safety and avoid cross-contamination if you have severe allergies.
Why this recipe?
People love the Chicken Quesadilla from Chipotle for its perfectly grilled chicken, melted cheese, and fresh, flavorful tortilla that delivers a satisfying combination of textures and taste. The blend of smoky, spicy, and savory seasonings makes each bite irresistibly delicious, appealing to fans of Mexican-inspired cuisine. You can recreate this favorite dish at home to enjoy a cost-effective, customizable meal that matches Chipotle's quality while controlling ingredients and spiciness level. Making a copycat version allows unlocking the same mouthwatering experience, ideal for fans seeking convenience and freshness.