Full Stack Quesadilla from Moe's Southwest Grill features tender grilled chicken, melted Monterey Jack cheese, fresh pico de gallo, and creamy guacamole, all wrapped in a warm, toasted flour tortilla for a flavorful, satisfying bite.
Equipments
- Grill or griddle
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Cheese grater
- Spatula
- Ladle or scoop (for guacamole)
- Tongs
- Large plate or tray
- Serving knife or pizza cutter
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 2 cups (225g) Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 4 large (10-inch) flour tortillas
- 1 cup pico de gallo
- 1 cup guacamole
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
When preparing your Full Stack Quesadilla, make sure to use boneless, skinless chicken breast for tender, juicy meat that absorbs the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder perfectly. Fresh Monterey Jack cheese is essential for a creamy melt that balances the spices and fresh ingredients like pico de gallo and guacamole. Opt for large 10-inch flour tortillas to hold all the fillings without tearing. Fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro add essential brightness and herbaceous notes to the guacamole and pico de gallo, elevating the overall flavor profile. Your Full Stack Quesadilla copycat from Moe's Southwest Grill will deliver the same satisfying layers of flavors and textures when using these ingredients thoughtfully.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or griddle over medium-high heat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat chicken breasts with the spice mixture.
- Grill chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Remove chicken; let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly on a cutting board.
- In another mixing bowl, toss sliced chicken with fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro.
- Place a tortilla on the preheated grill or griddle.
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the tortilla.
- Distribute grilled chicken slices over the cheese.
- Top with 1/4 cup pico de gallo and 1/4 cup guacamole.
- Sprinkle an additional 1/2 cup cheese over the fillings.
- Place a second tortilla on top or fold the tortilla in half (if using single tortillas).
- Cook until the bottom is golden and cheese starts to melt, 2–3 minutes.
- Carefully flip with spatula and tongs; cook an additional 2–3 minutes until golden and cheese is melted.
- Remove quesadilla to a large plate or tray.
- Slice into wedges using serving knife or pizza cutter.
- Serve hot with extra pico de gallo, guacamole, or cilantro if desired.
Substitution
Full Stack Quesadilla from Moe's Southwest Grill combines grilled chicken, Monterey Jack cheese, fresh pico de gallo, and creamy guacamole in a warm flour tortilla for a delicious meal. If you don't have Monterey Jack cheese, you can substitute with mild cheddar or pepper jack for a similar melt and flavor. Boneless skinless chicken breast works best, but thighs can add extra juiciness if preferred. Fresh pico de gallo can be replaced with a mix of diced tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, and cilantro to replicate the flavor at home. You can prepare guacamole ahead to save time, using ripe avocados, lime juice, salt, and chopped cilantro to maintain freshness.
Tips
Ensure the grill or griddle is fully preheated over medium-high heat to achieve a perfect sear on the chicken and a crispy tortilla texture. Letting the grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing helps retain its juices, keeping your Full Stack Quesadilla tender and flavorful. Using a generous amount of Monterey Jack cheese on both sides of the filling promotes even melting, preventing the quesadilla from falling apart. When flipping, use both a spatula and tongs to maintain the quesadilla's shape and avoid spills during cooking.
Nutritions
The Full Stack Quesadilla from Moe's Southwest Grill provides a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. Grilled chicken breast delivers lean protein essential for muscle repair and growth, while Monterey Jack cheese adds calcium and vitamin D. Fresh pico de gallo contributes antioxidants and vitamin C, and guacamole offers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber from avocados. Your meal combines flavorful satisfaction with nutrient-dense ingredients supporting overall wellness.
Storage
Store your Full Stack Quesadilla in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. For best results, separate the guacamole and pico de gallo in individual containers to prevent sogginess. Reheat the quesadilla on a grill or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side to restore its crispy texture and melted cheese.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute chicken breast with shredded rotisserie chicken or grilled shrimp to add variety to your quesadilla. Try using pepper jack or cheddar cheese instead of Monterey Jack for a bolder flavor profile. For a healthier option, swap flour tortillas with whole wheat or low-carb tortillas. To simplify, prepare the pico de gallo and guacamole ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to assemble.
Allergies
Your Full Stack Quesadilla contains common allergens such as dairy from Monterey Jack cheese and gluten from the flour tortillas. Individuals with allergies to chicken, garlic, onion, or specific spices like chili powder and cumin should also exercise caution. Always check ingredient labels and consult with restaurant staff to ensure safety if you have food allergies.
Why this recipe?
The Full Stack Quesadilla from Moe's Southwest Grill combines layers of seasoned steak, chicken, and melted cheese inside a crispy tortilla, creating a rich and flavorful experience that appeals to diverse taste preferences. This menu item features fresh ingredients like pico de gallo and creamy guacamole, enhancing its authentic Southwest flair, which makes it stand out among similar offerings. You'll appreciate its balance of hearty protein and vibrant toppings, perfectly suited for a satisfying meal any time of the day. Trying to make a copycat version at home is worth it because it allows customization while capturing the bold, crave-worthy flavors that fans of Moe's love.