Name: Crispy Baked Pizza Chicken Quesadillas.
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken (Use rotisserie chicken for convenience); 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella or Italian blend cheese; Pepperoni (Optional); Parmesan cheese (For sprinkling on top); Fresh basil (For garnishing); Olive oil (For brushing the tortillas)

There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of pizza and quesadillas. Imagine biting into a crispy, golden-brown quesadilla filled with cheesy goodness, savory chicken, and the familiar flavors of your favorite pizza. This is where Crispy Baked Pizza Chicken Quesadillas come into play, transforming your ordinary dinner into a fun and delectable experience. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering, these quesadillas are sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this dish and how simple it is to prepare.

Reasons to Love Crispy Baked Pizza Chicken Quesadillas.

There are countless reasons to adore these Crispy Baked Pizza Chicken Quesadillas:

Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip these up in no time.
Versatile: Customize with your favorite toppings and ingredients to suit your taste.
Kid-Friendly: Kids love quesadillas, and this pizza-inspired version will be a hit with the whole family.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time, and you’ll have delicious, ready-to-eat meals throughout the week.
Full of Flavor: The combination of mozzarella, marinara, and spices makes each bite absolutely scrumptious.

What’s in the Bowl

To make these Crispy Baked Pizza Chicken Quesadillas, gather the following ingredients:

1 cup cooked, shredded chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own for a fresh option.
1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a touch of aromatic flavor reminiscent of classic pizza.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: A staple herb in Italian cooking that complements the chicken beautifully.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: For an extra kick of flavor in every bite.
4 soft taco-size tortillas: About 6 to 8 inches in diameter, perfect for folding.
1 cup marinara sauce: A zesty base that ties all the flavors together.
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or Italian blend cheese: The star ingredient for that gooey, melty goodness.
Pepperoni: Optional, but it adds an authentic pizza touch if you love it!
Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle on top for added flavor and richness.
Fresh basil: For garnishing, bringing a fresh aroma and color to the dish.
Olive oil: For brushing the tortillas, ensuring they become perfectly crispy.

Appliances & Accessories

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following appliances and accessories on hand:

Baking Sheet: Essential for baking the quesadillas to crispy perfection.
Parchment Paper: Optional, but it helps prevent sticking and makes for easier cleanup.
Mixing Bowl: For combining the shredded chicken and seasonings.
Brush: To apply olive oil evenly on the tortillas.
Oven: Preheat for baking the quesadillas until golden brown.

How to Prepare Crispy Baked Pizza Chicken Quesadillas.

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get into the step-by-step process of making your Crispy Baked Pizza Chicken Quesadillas.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your quesadillas bake evenly and become crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with dried basil, dried oregano, and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure that the chicken is evenly coated with the herbs and spices.

Step 3: Assemble the Quesadillas

Take one tortilla and spread a spoonful of marinara sauce evenly over one half. On the same half, add a generous amount of the chicken mixture, followed by a handful of shredded mozzarella cheese. If you’re adding pepperoni, sprinkle some on top as well. Fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape, pressing gently to seal.

Step 4: Brush with Olive Oil

Using a brush, lightly coat the outside of the folded quesadilla with olive oil. This will create a beautiful, crispy crust as they bake.

Step 5: Bake the Quesadillas

Place the quesadillas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches

Once baked, remove the quesadillas from the oven. Sprinkle them with grated parmesan cheese and fresh basil for an extra burst of flavor. Allow them to cool slightly before slicing into wedges.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Crispy Baked Pizza Chicken Quesadillas with additional marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures!

Dietary Customizations

These quesadillas are versatile and can be easily customized to accommodate various dietary preferences:

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortillas to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with sautéed vegetables or black beans for a plant-based version.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and skip the parmesan for a dairy-free option.
Low-Carb: Consider using low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps for a lighter version.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

While making Crispy Baked Pizza Chicken Quesadillas is straightforward, here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

Overstuffing: It’s tempting to add lots of filling, but overstuffing can lead to messy quesadillas that won’t seal properly.
Skipping the Oil: Brushing the tortillas with olive oil is crucial for achieving that crispy texture.
Underbaking: Keep an eye on the baking time; underbaked quesadillas may turn out soggy.
Neglecting to Flip: Flipping the quesadillas halfway through baking ensures even crispiness on both sides.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

Crispy Baked Pizza Chicken Quesadillas are perfect for meal prep and leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat them:

Storage: Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze uncooked, assembled quesadillas. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

Reader Q&A

Can I use non-chicken protein in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the chicken with shredded turkey, beef, or even vegetarian options like black beans or tofu for a delicious twist.

What type of cheese works best for these quesadillas?

While mozzarella is the classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses for varied flavor.

Can I add more vegetables to the filling?

Yes! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or spinach to the chicken mixture for added nutrition and flavor.

How can I make these quesadillas spicier?

If you love some heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños, chili flakes, or using spicy marinara sauce to kick up the flavor.

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Next Steps

Now that you have the recipe for Crispy Baked Pizza Chicken Quesadillas, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! Whether you’re making these for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or just for yourself, you’re in for a treat. Get creative with your fillings and toppings, and enjoy every delicious bite of this easy and satisfying dish. Happy cooking!