High-Protein Chicken Ranch Quesadilla Recipe
Introduction
This High-Protein Chicken Ranch Quesadilla is a quick and delicious meal perfect for lunch or dinner. Loaded with shredded chicken, melted cheese, and tangy ranch dressing, it’s both satisfying and easy to make. Ready in just minutes, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 4 medium flour tortillas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup diced green onions
- 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, shredded cheese, ranch dressing, green onions, bell pepper, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat, swirling to coat the bottom evenly.
- Step 3: Place one tortilla in the pan and spread one-quarter of the chicken mixture over half of the tortilla. Fold the tortilla over to cover the filling.
- Step 4: Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the bottom turns golden brown. Carefully flip the quesadilla using a spatula.
- Step 5: Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the other side is golden brown and the cheese has melted completely.
- Step 6: Remove the quesadilla from the pan and let it rest for 2 minutes before slicing into wedges. Repeat these steps with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Step 7: Serve hot with extra ranch dressing for dipping and enjoy your High-Protein Chicken Ranch Quesadilla!
Tips & Variations
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the filling mixture.
- Swap the chicken for cooked turkey or even a plant-based protein for a different variation.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas to accommodate dietary preferences.
- Add a handful of spinach or kale for extra greens and nutrients.
Storage
Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat or in a toaster oven to keep the tortillas crisp. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?
Yes, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works great and can save time. Just shred it before mixing with the other ingredients.
How can I make this quesadilla vegetarian?
Replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables, beans, or a plant-based protein alternative. Adjust seasoning as needed to maintain flavor.
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High-Protein Chicken Ranch Quesadilla Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 quesadillas (serves 4) 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make High-Protein Chicken Ranch Quesadilla featuring shredded chicken, melty cheese, and flavorful ranch dressing, cooked to golden perfection in a skillet. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner packed with protein and bold flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup diced green onions
- 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Tortillas & Cooking
- 4 medium flour tortillas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: Combine cooked shredded chicken, shredded cheese, ranch dressing, diced green onions, diced bell pepper, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Heat the pan: Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Swirl the oil to evenly coat the bottom of the pan, preparing it for cooking the quesadilla.
- Assemble the quesadilla: Place one flour tortilla in the heated pan. Spread 1/4 of the chicken mixture evenly over one half of the tortilla. Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling to form a half-moon shape.
- Cook the first side: Let the quesadilla cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the bottom turns golden brown. Use a spatula carefully to flip the quesadilla over.
- Cook the second side: Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes on the other side, ensuring it is golden brown and the cheese inside has melted completely.
- Rest and slice: Remove the quesadilla from the pan and allow it to rest for about 2 minutes to set. Then slice into wedges for serving.
- Repeat & serve: Repeat the process with remaining tortillas and filling. Serve the quesadillas hot with extra ranch dressing on the side for dipping. Enjoy your flavorful High-Protein Chicken Ranch Quesadilla!
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the filling.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute flour tortillas with gluten-free tortillas.
- Use low-fat cheese and ranch dressing to reduce calorie and fat content.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated in a skillet or microwave.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: chicken quesadilla, high protein recipe, ranch dressing, easy skillet meal, cheesy quesadilla, quick dinner, healthy chicken recipes
