The Chicken Quesadilla Wrap from Pollo Tropical features tender grilled chicken, melted cheese, and fresh vegetables all wrapped in a warm, soft flour tortilla, offering a flavorful and satisfying handheld meal with a perfect blend of savory and cheesy goodness.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese grater
- Mixing bowl
- Skillet or frying pan
- Spatula
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving plate
- Aluminum foil (optional for keeping wraps warm)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 4 large flour tortillas
- Cooking spray or additional oil (for grilling or frying)
Tender boneless, skinless chicken breast is essential for a juicy and flavorful Chicken Quesadilla Wrap; marinate it with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to enhance the taste. Using a blend of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese ensures a rich, melty texture that complements the grilled chicken perfectly. Fresh diced vegetables like tomatoes, red onion, bell pepper, and chopped cilantro add a crisp and vibrant contrast to the creamy cheese and tender meat. Select large, soft flour tortillas that can hold all ingredients without tearing, making it easier to wrap and grill evenly. Your Chicken Quesadilla Wrap from Pollo Tropical copycat menu will capture the perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and fresh flavors, creating an irresistible handheld meal.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Pound the chicken breast for even thickness.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat chicken breasts with the seasoning mixture.
- Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.
- Remove chicken from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Dice or slice grilled chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Grate cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese if not pre-shredded.
- Dice tomatoes, red onion, and bell pepper.
- Chop fresh cilantro.
- Lay flour tortillas on a flat surface.
- Evenly distribute grilled chicken, cheeses, tomatoes, red onion, bell pepper, and cilantro onto each tortilla.
- Fold the sides of each tortilla and roll tightly to form wraps.
- Heat skillet or frying pan over medium heat and lightly coat with cooking spray or oil.
- Place wraps seam-side down in the skillet.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden and cheese melts.
- Remove wraps and slice in halves if desired.
- Serve hot on a plate (wrap in foil to keep warm, if needed).
Substitution
The Chicken Quesadilla Wrap inspired by Pollo Tropical combines grilled chicken, melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, plus fresh vegetables, wrapped in a warm flour tortilla for a delicious handheld meal. You can substitute the chicken breast with thighs for juicier meat or use a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time. If you don't have a grill or grill pan, a regular skillet works well for cooking the chicken and toasting the tortilla evenly. For an extra smoky flavor, consider adding a small amount of chipotle powder instead of chili powder. Fresh vegetables can be swapped with whatever you have on hand, such as zucchini or corn, without compromising the wrap's fresh taste.
Tips
Ensure the chicken is pounded to an even thickness to guarantee uniform cooking and prevent dryness. Letting the grilled chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing helps retain its juices, making your quesadilla wrap juicier. When cooking the wraps in the skillet, press gently with a spatula to evenly melt the cheese and achieve a crispy exterior without tearing the tortilla. Use fresh vegetables and properly measured spices from the seasoning mix to maintain the authentic and balanced flavor of the Chicken Quesadilla Wrap.
Nutritions
The Chicken Quesadilla Wrap offers a balanced source of protein primarily from 1 lb of grilled boneless, skinless chicken breast, which supports muscle maintenance and repair. With a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses providing calcium and healthy fats, the wrap delivers essential nutrients for bone health and energy. Fresh vegetables like diced tomatoes, red onion, and bell pepper add fiber, vitamins A and C, along with antioxidants that aid digestion and boost immunity. You can enjoy a satisfying handheld meal containing approximately 450-500 calories, making it a nutritious option for a wholesome lunch or dinner.
Storage
Store your Chicken Quesadilla Wraps in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in a preheated oven at 350degF (175degC) until the cheese melts and the wrap is warmed through. Avoid microwaving directly to prevent sogginess and preserve the crisp texture of the grilled tortilla.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the grilled chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked ground turkey for a quicker option. Swap cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese with pepper jack or mozzarella to vary the flavor profile. Consider adding sauteed mushrooms or avocado slices inside the wrap for extra texture and creaminess. For a healthier twist, use whole wheat or spinach tortillas instead of regular flour tortillas.
Allergies
The Chicken Quesadilla Wrap contains flour tortillas and cheese, which pose potential allergens for individuals with gluten and dairy sensitivities. The presence of spices such as chili powder and garlic powder may also trigger reactions in those with specific spice allergies. You should carefully review these ingredients and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any food allergies or intolerances before enjoying this meal.
Why this recipe?
Chicken Quesadilla Wrap from Pollo Tropical is favored for its perfectly seasoned grilled chicken, melted cheese, and fresh tortillas that create a flavorful and satisfying meal. The combination of bold Latin-inspired spices and tender chicken offers a unique taste experience that stands out from typical fast food options. Trying to make a copycat version lets you enjoy the same delicious flavors at home while customizing ingredients to suit your preferences. This wrap delivers a balanced mix of protein, cheese, and soft tortillas that appeals to both spice lovers and comfort food enthusiasts.