Chicken and Avocado Quesadillas Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors, creamy textures, and just the right amount of crispy crunch, then you have to try this Chicken and Avocado Quesadillas Recipe. It’s a perfect harmony of tender, spiced chicken, luscious mashed avocado, and melty cheese all wrapped up in golden tortillas. This recipe is not only super quick to whip up but also a total crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples, yet each one plays a crucial role in bringing this Chicken and Avocado Quesadillas Recipe to life. From the smoky spices that coat the chicken to the creamy richness of avocado, every element combines to create an irresistible quesadilla.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The hearty protein base that soaks up all the delicious spices.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For perfectly searing the chicken and adding subtle richness.
- 1 tsp ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy depth to the chicken seasoning.
- 1 tsp chili powder: Brings a mild heat and vibrant color to the mix.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Infuses a gentle garlicky aroma without overpowering.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Adds a sweet, savory undertone to balance the spices.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, and mashed: The creamy, buttery component that elevates every bite.
- 1 tbsp lime juice (optional): Brightens the avocado and prevents browning.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: For a sharp, tangy gooeyness inside the quesadilla.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, giving a luscious stretchiness.
- 4 large flour tortillas: The crispy, golden shell that holds all the fillings.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional): Adds a fresh herbal note and a pop of color.
- Sour cream and salsa for serving (optional): Perfect cool and zesty accompaniments.
How to Make Chicken and Avocado Quesadillas Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This spice blend gives the chicken a bold, smoky foundation that makes every bite flavorful and exciting. Don’t be shy here—seasoning is key to a tasty Chicken and Avocado Quesadillas Recipe.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 6 to 7 minutes per side until it’s golden and cooked through. This method ensures a juicy inside with a nicely seared exterior. Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips. Resting keeps the meat tender and juicy.
Step 3: Prepare the Avocado
While the chicken is resting, mash the ripe avocados in a bowl. Add a squeeze of lime juice if you like, which brightens the flavor and keeps the avocado fresh and vibrant. A pinch of salt finishes this creamy filling perfectly. This luscious avocado mixture is what makes this Chicken and Avocado Quesadillas Recipe extra special.
Step 4: Assemble the Quesadillas
Warm a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place one tortilla down and sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top. Then, layer on half of the sliced chicken, followed by half of the mashed avocado and some fresh cilantro if you’re using it. Top everything with a second tortilla to form a sandwich.
Step 5: Cook Until Golden and Melty
Cook the quesadilla for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula. This helps the cheese melt thoroughly while the tortillas become golden and crispy. Repeat this process with the remaining ingredients to make a second quesadilla.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove your quesadillas from the skillet and slice them into wedges. Serve them hot with sides like sour cream and salsa for dipping, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering experience from this Chicken and Avocado Quesadillas Recipe.
How to Serve Chicken and Avocado Quesadillas Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can take your Chicken and Avocado Quesadillas Recipe to the next level. Sprinkle chopped cilantro or a little extra squeeze of lime over the top for a fresh, zesty twist. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole adds creaminess and cooling contrast to the warm, spicy quesadillas.
Side Dishes
Pair these quesadillas with simple sides like a fresh salsa verde, pico de gallo, or a light mixed green salad to balance the richness. Black beans and Mexican rice also make excellent sides that complement the hearty chicken filling perfectly and round out a satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try cutting the quesadillas into smaller bite-sized wedges for a party platter or appetizer spread. You can also stack them alongside colorful bowls of dips and salsas for a festive look that invites everyone to dig in. Wrapping a few in foil makes an easy, portable lunch option, too!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep any leftover Chicken and Avocado Quesadillas Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cool them completely before storing to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to save quesadillas for later, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. This helps preserve their shape and keeps them fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw them overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat quesadillas in a skillet over medium heat to restore their crispiness and melt the cheese evenly. Avoid microwaving if possible, since it can make the tortillas soggy. A quick reheat in the oven or toaster oven also works beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese for this Chicken and Avocado Quesadillas Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella create a perfect balance of sharpness and meltiness, you can substitute with Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a little kick, or even a Mexican blend cheese to customize the flavor.
Is it necessary to use lime juice in the avocado mixture?
Lime juice is optional but highly recommended because it brightens the avocado’s flavor and helps prevent it from turning brown. If you don’t have lime on hand, a squeeze of lemon juice or a tiny pinch of vinegar works as well.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply omit the chicken and load up on extra cheese and avocado, or add sautéed veggies like mushrooms, peppers, and onions for a delicious vegetarian quesadilla version.
How spicy is this quesadilla?
The chili powder adds mild heat, but this recipe is mostly kid-friendly and mild. You can always adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or a dash of cayenne if you prefer more heat.
What’s the best way to slice the quesadillas?
Cutting them into wedges or triangles is traditional and easy for serving. Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter gives you clean slices without squashing the ingredients inside.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Avocado Quesadillas Recipe is truly one of those recipes that hits all the right notes — quick to prepare, wonderfully flavorful, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re making a casual weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a weekend gathering, these quesadillas will not disappoint. Give it a go and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Chicken and Avocado Quesadillas Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Chicken and Avocado Quesadillas are a quick and delicious meal perfect for any day of the week. Featuring tender, seasoned chicken breasts combined with creamy mashed avocado and melted cheeses, all sandwiched between crispy golden tortillas, this recipe offers a flavorful twist on a classic favorite. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s an easy dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Avocado Mixture
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, and mashed
- 1 tbsp lime juice (optional, for the avocado)
- Pinch of salt (to taste)
Cheese and Tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
Optional Garnishes & Serving
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Sour cream for serving (optional)
- Salsa for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and evenly season them on all sides with ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to infuse them with bold southwestern flavors.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side or until the chicken is fully cooked through and has a golden brown exterior. Remove the chicken from the pan and allow it to rest for a few minutes to retain its juices before slicing thinly.
- Prepare the avocado spread: While the chicken rests, mash the peeled and pitted avocados in a bowl. Stir in lime juice and a pinch of salt to enhance the creaminess and add a subtle tang.
- Assemble the quesadilla: Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place one flour tortilla into the skillet and evenly sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over it. Layer half of the sliced chicken evenly on top of the cheese, followed by half of the mashed avocado mixture and chopped cilantro if using. Top with a second tortilla to form a sandwich.
- Cook the quesadilla: Cook the assembled quesadilla for 2-3 minutes on one side, gently pressing with a spatula to help the cheese melt and ensure even browning. Carefully flip and cook the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and both tortillas are crisp and golden brown. Repeat this process for the second quesadilla with remaining ingredients.
- Serve: Remove the quesadillas from the skillet and cut them into wedges. Serve immediately with sour cream and salsa on the side for dipping, if desired, to add extra creaminess and spice.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning.
- Use corn tortillas to make the dish gluten-free.
- Replace cheddar and mozzarella with your favorite cheeses such as pepper jack for extra flavor.
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Leftover quesadillas can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated in a skillet or oven to retain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
