High-Protein Chicken Ranch Quesadilla
A comforting and healthy dish packed with protein, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
For the Quesadilla
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken You can use rotisserie chicken for a quick option.
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing Homemade is best, but store-bought works too.
- 1 cup shredded cheese Cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
- 4 large tortillas Flour or corn based on your preference.
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced Add vibrant colors–red, yellow, green.
- 1/2 cup onions, diced For sweetness and a hint of depth.
- fresh cilantro for garnish Optional, brightens up the dish.
- diced tomatoes or jalapeños Optional for an added kick, if you like it spicy.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients. If you haven’t already shredded your chicken, do so now.
Mixing
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ranch dressing, diced bell peppers, and onions. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Cooking
- Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat and let it warm up.
- Lay one tortilla in the skillet, and sprinkle a generous amount of cheese on half of the tortilla. Add about half of the chicken mixture over the cheese, then fold the tortilla to create a half-moon shape.
- Sear the quesadilla for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown. Use a spatula to gently press down on the quesadilla to help the cheese melt and bind the filling.
- Flip the quesadilla and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side, until the cheese is melted and both sides are crispy.
- Once cooked, transfer the quesadilla to a cutting board and let it cool for a minute. Slice into wedges and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Notes
You can swap proteins, add seasonal veggies, or experiment with different cheeses. Serve with salsa or guacamole!