Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Chicken Quesadillas are a crispy, cheesy, and savory meal option that combines tender shredded chicken, melted cheese, and flavorful spices in a golden, oven-baked tortilla. They’re perfect for feeding a crowd, meal prepping, or serving as a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner—without the mess of stovetop frying.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

flour tortillascooked shredded chickencheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)cream cheese (softened)green onions (chopped)garlic powderchili powdercuminolive oilsalt and pepper

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with cream cheese, green onions, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Place a tortilla on a flat surface and spread a generous amount of the chicken mixture on half.

Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken mixture and fold the tortilla in half.

Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.

Brush the tops of the folded quesadillas with olive oil.

Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Let them cool slightly before slicing into wedges.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 large quesadillas (serves 4-6).
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10-12 minutes
Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Add sautéed bell peppers and onions for extra flavor and texture.
Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a spicier kick.
Serve with guacamole, sour cream, or salsa for dipping.
Make mini quesadillas using taco-sized tortillas for appetizers or party snacks.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes or in an air fryer for crispiness.
Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain a crispy texture.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken?

No, use cooked chicken for safety and even baking. Pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken works best.

Can I freeze baked quesadillas?

Yes, wrap them in foil or plastic and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven directly from frozen.

Can I use corn tortillas instead?

Yes, but they may crack when folded. Warm them slightly before assembling.

What’s the best cheese for quesadillas?

Cheddar, Mexican blend, or Monterey Jack melt well and complement the flavors.

Are baked quesadillas healthier than pan-fried?

Yes, baking uses less oil and is easier to cook in batches.

How do I keep quesadillas from getting soggy?

Bake until crispy and avoid overfilling with moist ingredients.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate for up to a day before baking.

Can I add beans?

Absolutely—black beans or refried beans work well with chicken and cheese.

Do I need to flip them while baking?

Flipping ensures even browning and crispiness on both sides.

Are these kid-friendly?

Yes, they’re mild and customizable—perfect for picky eaters.

Conclusion

Baked Chicken Quesadillas are an easy, mess-free twist on a Tex-Mex favorite. With crispy edges, gooey cheese, and flavorful chicken filling, they’re a go-to meal for busy nights or casual gatherings. Whether you enjoy them plain or with your favorite dips, these quesadillas will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.