Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadilla
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, the Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadilla is perfect for you! This dish combines the savory flavors of chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing, all melted together with cheese inside a crispy tortilla. It’s simple to make, making it a great option for lunch, dinner, or even a snack.
Why Make This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to make this quesadilla. It’s not only tasty but also very easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that appeals to both kids and adults. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover chicken, and you can customize it with your favorite toppings or ingredients.
How to Make Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadilla
Ingredients
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
- 8 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 2 cups Mexican cheese blend (shredded)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup tomatoes (diced)
- 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 2 tbsp butter (for cooking)
Directions
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the ranch dressing until well coated.
- Add the crumbled bacon, diced tomatoes, finely chopped onion, and chopped cilantro to the chicken mixture. Stir well.
- Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese on half of the tortilla.
- Spoon the chicken mixture on top of the cheese, then add another layer of cheese.
- Fold the tortilla in half to create a quesadilla.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Place the folded quesadilla in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadilla
Cut the quesadilla into wedges and serve it warm. You can enjoy it as is or with extra ranch dressing on the side for dipping. Add a fresh salad or some chips for a complete meal.
How to Store Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadilla
If you have leftovers, let the quesadillas cool completely. Then, wrap them in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Tips to Make Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadilla
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and cilantro add great flavor to the quesadilla.
- Don’t Overstuff: Be careful not to overfill the quesadilla, as it can make it harder to cook evenly and seal properly.
- Try Different Cheeses: You can experiment with different cheeses, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, for new flavors.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, or even using a different type of sauce instead of ranch dressing.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just construct the quesadillas and cook them when you’re ready to eat.
2. Can I use other proteins?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with turkey, ground beef, or even beans for a vegetarian option.
3. How do I make these quesadillas healthier?
You can use whole wheat tortillas, reduce the amount of cheese, and add more vegetables to increase the nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.