Chicken spinach quesadillas

Chicken spinach quesadillas blend tender chicken, fresh spinach, and melted Monterey cheese in crispy tortillas, served with salsa. This simple dish makes for a hearty lunch or dinner option.

09 Jan 2026
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup water
2 cups spinach
1 tsp salt
4 tortillas
8 oz monterey cheese
6 tbsp salsa sauce

Chicken spinach quesadillas with Monterey cheese and salsa sauce are a delightful and nutritious meal that's perfect for lunch or dinner. The combination of succulent chicken, fresh spinach, and melty Monterey cheese wrapped in crispy tortillas will satisfy your taste buds and keep you coming back for more. With a hint of salsa sauce, this dish offers a mild tangy flavor that's simply irresistible.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Season the chicken breasts with a pinch of salt.
- Cook the chicken breasts in the skillet until they're golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before shredding or cutting it into thin strips.

2. Cook the Spinach:
- In the same skillet, add 1/4 cup of water and the spinach.
- Cook the spinach until it's wilted, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Season the spinach with a pinch of salt, then remove from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Assemble the Quesadillas:
- Lay out the tortillas on a clean surface.
- Evenly distribute the shredded chicken, cooked spinach, and shredded Monterey cheese over half of each tortilla.
- Fold the tortillas in half to enclose the filling.

4. Cook the Quesadillas:
- Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Place the folded tortillas in the skillet (you may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your skillet).
- Cook each quesadilla for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese has melted.

5. Serve:
- Cut the quesadillas into wedges.
- Serve hot with a generous tablespoon of salsa sauce on each wedge or on the side for dipping.

This Chicken spinach quesadilla recipe is easy to prepare and makes for a delicious, satisfying meal. It's perfect for a quick weekday lunch or a casual dinner with family and friends. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to be a hit, and you'll love how simple it is to make these tasty quesadillas at home.

Chicken spinach quesadillas FAQ:

What is the cooking time for chicken breasts in this recipe?

Cook the chicken breasts for about 6-8 minutes on each side in a skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

How do I know when the quesadillas are done cooking?

The quesadillas are done when the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese has melted, typically after cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Monterey cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Monterey cheese with other melting cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

How should I store leftover quesadillas?

Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

What can I use instead of spinach in this recipe?

You can substitute spinach with other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard, or try using sautéed peppers and onions for a different twist.

Cooking Tips:

- Cook the chicken breasts thoroughly by ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.

- For a healthier option, you can use whole wheat tortillas or low-fat cheese.

- Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or onions for additional flavor and nutrition.

- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet for a few seconds before assembling the quesadillas to make them more pliable and easier to fold.

- To achieve extra crispy quesadillas, lightly oil your skillet before cooking them and press down gently with a spatula while cooking.

- Serve the quesadillas with a side of guacamole, sour cream, or extra salsa for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 330kcal
Protein 27g
Carbohydrates 13g
Fiber 2.18g
Sugar 1.47g
Fat 22g

Chicken spinach quesadillas