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- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or grilled) - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese - 1 red bell pepper, diced - 1 onion, diced - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 4 large flour tortillas - Olive oil for cooking - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh salsa (optional, see below for ingredients)

30-Minute Chicken Quesadillas with Fresh Salsa

Looking for a quick and flavorful meal? Try these zesty chicken quesadillas that come together in just 30 minutes! This dish combines shredded chicken, melting cheese, and fresh veggies for a satisfying lunch or dinner. With the option to customize fillings to your liking, these quesadillas are not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Serve them with homemade salsa for an extra burst of flavor, and enjoy a meal that the whole family can appreciate!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 small onion, diced

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp cumin

1 tsp smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

4 medium flour tortillas

2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

1 avocado, sliced (optional, for serving)

Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Fresh Salsa:

2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for spice)

Juice of 1 lime

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Salt, to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Salsa: In a mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, and cilantro. Season with salt to taste and set aside to let the flavors meld.

    Cook the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced bell pepper and onion, season with a pinch of salt, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.

      Combine Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.

        Assemble Quesadillas: In the same skillet or a separate one, heat another tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Place a tortilla in the skillet, and evenly spread half of the chicken mixture onto one half of the tortilla. Sprinkle half of the cheese over the chicken.

          Cook Quesadillas: Fold the tortilla over to close it and press gently. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side, until golden brown and crispy. Flip and repeat on the other side until the cheese is melted. Remove from heat. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling.

            Serve: Cut each quesadilla into wedges and serve hot with the fresh salsa on the side. If desired, add sliced avocado and chopped cilantro as garnishes.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings