Spicy Jack Chicken Quesadilla from Del Taco features tender grilled chicken, melted spicy pepper jack cheese, and zesty jalapenos enclosed in a warm, crispy flour tortilla, delivering a bold and flavorful Mexican-inspired bite.
Equipments
- Grill or stovetop
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese grater (if shredding cheese fresh)
- Bowl (for mixing or holding ingredients)
- Tongs
- Nonstick skillet or flat pan
- Plate (for serving)
- Measuring cups/spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless skinless chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup (120g) pepper jack cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup jarred jalapeño slices
- 4 large flour tortillas
- Cooking spray or extra oil (for pan)
Using boneless skinless chicken breast ensures the quesadilla remains tender and cooks evenly. Freshly shredding pepper jack cheese enhances meltability and flavor compared to pre-shredded options. Adjust the amount of jalapeno slices according to your heat preference to control spiciness level. Season the chicken thoroughly with the blend of chili powder, garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cumin to achieve the bold seasoning typical of Mexican-inspired dishes. Your homemade copycat Spicy Jack Chicken Quesadilla from Del Taco will deliver the same crispy, spicy, and cheesy bite that the original is known for.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat grill or stovetop skillet over medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, toss chicken breast with olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Grill or cook chicken on skillet for 5–7 minutes per side, until fully cooked.
- Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Slice chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces on cutting board.
- Lay out flour tortillas on a clean surface.
- Sprinkle half of each tortilla with shredded pepper jack cheese.
- Add sliced chicken on top of cheese.
- Evenly distribute jalapeño slices over the chicken.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese over the fillings.
- Fold each tortilla in half to enclose the fillings.
- Heat nonstick skillet or flat pan over medium heat and lightly grease with cooking spray or oil.
- Place quesadillas in the skillet (one or two at a time as space allows).
- Cook 2–3 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until golden brown and cheese melts.
- Remove quesadillas from skillet and place on plate.
- Let cool slightly, slice into wedges, and serve warm.
Substitution
The Spicy Jack Chicken Quesadilla from Del Taco copycat menu combines grilled chicken seasoned with chili powder, garlic, and cumin, melted pepper jack cheese, and tangy jalapeno slices inside a crispy flour tortilla. If you can't find pepper jack cheese, a blend of mozzarella and cheddar with a pinch of cayenne pepper can provide a similar spicy, melty texture. Using fresh jalapenos instead of jarred slices works well, but remember to adjust the quantity based on your preferred heat level. For cooking, a nonstick skillet ensures even crisping without sticking, but a grill adds a smoky char for authentic flavor. Make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly and rest it briefly before assembling to maintain juiciness in your quesadilla.
Tips
Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) to avoid undercooking. Use a sharp knife to slice the rested chicken evenly, preventing loss of juices and maintaining tenderness. When assembling the quesadilla, evenly distribute cheese and jalapenos for consistent flavor in every bite. Heat the pan properly before adding the quesadilla and use a spatula to press gently to achieve a crispy, golden crust without burning.
Nutritions
Spicy Jack Chicken Quesadilla provides a good source of lean protein from boneless skinless chicken breast, essential for muscle repair and growth. The pepper jack cheese contributes calcium and fats, supporting bone health and providing energy. Jalapeno slices add a boost of vitamin C and capsaicin, which may aid metabolism. Your meal delivers a balanced blend of macronutrients, making it a flavorful yet nourishing choice.
Storage
Store leftover Spicy Jack Chicken Quesadillas in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. For best texture, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the tortilla soggy, reducing the overall flavor experience.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute chicken breast with juicy grilled shrimp for a seafood twist that pairs well with the spicy pepper jack cheese. For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with sauteed mushrooms or seasoned black beans to maintain savory depth. Instead of flour tortillas, try using whole wheat or spinach tortillas to boost fiber content and add a subtle flavor variation. To intensify the smoky flavor, add a dash of chipotle powder to the spice blend or use a smoked cheese variety in place of pepper jack.
Allergies
The Spicy Jack Chicken Quesadilla contains common allergens such as dairy from the pepper jack cheese and gluten from the flour tortillas. If you have a milk allergy or lactose intolerance, the cheese may cause reactions, while the flour tortillas can be problematic for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. Be sure to consider your dietary restrictions before enjoying this flavorful dish.
Why this recipe?
The Spicy Jack Chicken Quesadilla from Del Taco is adored for its bold combination of tender grilled chicken, melted Jack cheese, and a blend of zesty spices all wrapped in a warm, crispy tortilla. Its perfect balance of heat and savory flavors creates a satisfying taste experience that keeps customers coming back. Your taste buds will appreciate the authentic, spicy kick that is both approachable and intense, making it a standout menu item. Recreating this popular dish at home lets you customize the spice level and ingredients, delivering fresh flavor and a cost-effective alternative to dining out.