Taco Bell Chicken Quesadilla

Craving Taco Bell’s famous chicken quesadilla but want to make it at home? This homemade version is packed with melty cheese, tender chicken, and a tangy jalapeño sauce that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Healthier, fresher, and just as satisfying as the fast food version, these quesadillas are a perfect meal or snack for any time of day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade Taco Bell Chicken Quesadilla takes all the flavors you love from the fast food version and elevates them with fresh ingredients and a creamy jalapeño sauce. The chicken is mixed with a tangy, slightly spicy sauce, then layered with cheese and grilled to perfection. With just the right amount of heat and cheesy goodness, it’s a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s simple to make and can easily be customized to suit your tastes.

Ingredients

For the Taco Bell Jalapeño Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• ½ cup sour cream

• 3 tablespoons pickled jalapeño juice (from the pickled jalapeños)

• 3 tablespoons pickled jalapeños, minced

• 1 clove garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)

• 2 teaspoons cumin

• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon cayenne powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Chicken Quesadillas:

• 8 medium flour tortillas

• 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (or homemade, see note)

• 4 cups shredded cheese blend (Monterey Jack, American Cheese, and Mozzarella recommended, or use Gouda or Cheddar)

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

Directions

Make the Jalapeño Sauce:

1. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, pickled jalapeño juice, minced jalapeños, garlic, cumin, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.

2. Mix everything together until smooth and fully combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if desired.

Prepare the Chicken:

1. If using rotisserie chicken, shred the chicken using two forks or your hands.

2. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken with part or all of the jalapeño sauce, depending on how saucy you like your chicken. Mix until the chicken is fully coated. (Reserve the remaining sauce for dipping.)

Assemble the Chicken Quesadillas:

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place one tortilla in the skillet and top with a layer of cheese, followed by the chicken mixture, and then more cheese.

2. Place another tortilla on top, pressing down gently.

3. Cook for about 1 minute or until the bottom tortilla is golden and crispy, then flip and cook for another 30-60 seconds until the second side is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

4. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Serve:

1. Slice each quesadilla into wedges and serve immediately with the reserved jalapeño sauce for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Servings: 4 quesadillas

Variations

• Add Veggies: For extra flavor and crunch, add sliced bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the quesadilla before cooking.

• Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of jalapeños or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for extra heat.

• Different Meats: While chicken is the classic choice, you can swap it for ground beef or even turkey for a new twist.

• Cheese Variety: Use a different cheese blend like Pepper Jack for more spice or a mild cheddar for a creamier flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover quesadillas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

• Reheating: Reheat the quesadillas in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side, or in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. Be aware that the sauce may leak out slightly when reheated, so keep some extra on hand for dipping!

FAQs

Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken mixture and sauce ahead of time, then assemble and cook the quesadillas when you’re ready to serve. You can also assemble the quesadillas, refrigerate them, and cook them later.

Can I use flour tortillas for a gluten-free version?

If you need a gluten-free option, simply use gluten-free tortillas. They work just as well in this recipe!

Can I freeze these quesadillas?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked quesadillas. After cooking, let them cool completely, then wrap them in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Can I use a different sauce instead of the jalapeño sauce?

If you’re not a fan of spicy sauces, you can substitute with a mild ranch dressing or a creamy avocado sauce for a different twist.

How do I know when the quesadilla is done?

The quesadilla is done when both sides are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside is fully melted.

Conclusion

This homemade Taco Bell Chicken Quesadilla recipe brings all the flavors you love from the fast food version, but with fresh, homemade ingredients. The creamy jalapeño sauce and tender chicken make for a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re making it for lunch, dinner, or a snack, these quesadillas are sure to become a family favorite!