There’s something magical about the combination of crispy tortillas, spicy buffalo sauce, and melted cheese. It’s a flavor pairing that never gets old, and it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. These Buffalo Chicken Quesadillas bring the best of both worlds—spicy, tangy buffalo chicken and gooey, cheesy goodness—wrapped up in a warm, golden tortilla. It’s a dish that’s quick to make, yet full of bold flavors that will have you coming back for more.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or whenever you’re in the mood for something deliciously indulgent. The beauty of these quesadillas is that they require just a handful of ingredients, but the flavor is far from basic. You’ll have a crispy, satisfying meal in minutes, without the fuss of complicated preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s no denying the irresistible allure of buffalo chicken, and when paired with the comfort of a quesadilla, it’s a match made in heaven. The spicy buffalo sauce infuses the chicken with a zesty heat, while the cheese adds a creamy, melty texture that balances out the spice. Whether you’re making these quesadillas for a casual dinner or a fun game-day snack, they are guaranteed to be a hit.
The best part? You can adjust the spice level to suit your tastes, and the recipe is versatile enough to let you play
around with different fillings and toppings. Plus, they are quick to make—perfect for when you’re short on time but still craving something satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- ½ cup buffalo sauce
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
Optional for Serving:
- Ranch dressing
- Fresh chopped cilantro
HOW TO MAKE Buffalo Chicken Quesadillas:
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling
Start by shredding your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, simply pull apart the meat with a fork. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce. Stir the mixture until the chicken is fully coated. The buffalo sauce is what gives this dish its signature flavor, so make sure to mix thoroughly for that bold kick in every bite.
Step 2: Butter the Tortillas
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, carefully place one tortilla in the pan, making sure it’s evenly spread out. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes or until the bottom starts to crisp up slightly. This step will ensure your tortilla gets golden and crispy once you add the fillings.
Step 3: Add the Cheese and Chicken
Sprinkle ½ cup of shredded cheese on top of the tortilla, followed by half of your buffalo chicken mixture. Add another layer of cheese on top of the chicken to ensure the quesadilla gets that melty, gooey center we all crave. The cheese helps everything stick together, creating a perfect balance of creamy and crunchy.
Step 4: Top with the Second Tortilla
Place the second tortilla on top of the chicken and cheese. Press down gently to help the quesadilla stick together. Continue to cook for about 2 minutes or until the bottom tortilla is golden and crispy.
Step 5: Flip and Cook the Other Side
Once the first side is crispy and golden brown, use a spatula to flip the quesadilla. Cook the other side for an additional 2 minutes, or until it’s equally golden and crispy. The key here is to cook the quesadilla on medium heat—too high, and it might burn before the cheese has a chance to melt. Too low, and it may not get crispy enough.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once both sides are cooked, remove the quesadilla from the pan and let it sit for a minute to cool slightly. Then, slice it into wedges for easy serving. For an added touch, you can drizzle ranch dressing on top or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
Helpful Tips:
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or opt for a milder version. You can also mix in some cream cheese with the chicken to tone down the heat.
- Add Veggies: Add some diced onions, bell peppers, or spinach to the buffalo chicken mixture for extra flavor and texture. Veggies can help balance out the spice and add a little more nutrition to the quesadillas.
- Make it Extra Cheesy: If you’re a cheese lover, don’t be afraid to add more cheese. Extra cheese ensures a gooey, indulgent center.
- Leftovers: If you have leftover buffalo chicken, store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can use it in salads, wraps, or even on top of a baked potato.
DETAILS:
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-fried
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: High-protein, gluten-free (if using gluten-free tortillas)
Notes:
- Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover cooked chicken, or freshly grilled chicken. Shredding the chicken makes it easier to mix with the buffalo sauce and ensures even flavor distribution.
- Buffalo Sauce: Feel free to adjust the amount of buffalo sauce depending on your desired spice level. If you like it milder, reduce the buffalo sauce and add a little cream cheese to balance the heat.
- Tortillas: If you need a gluten-free option, simply swap the flour tortillas for gluten-free ones. You can also use whole wheat tortillas for a slightly healthier alternative.
- Cheese: A Mexican cheese blend works well, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as cheddar or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
- Butter: If you’re looking to reduce calories, you can substitute butter with olive oil or avocado oil, though it may slightly change the flavor and crispiness of the quesadillas.
- Storage: Leftover quesadillas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet for the best crispy texture.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (Per Serving):
- Calories: 508 kcal
- Protein: 33 g
- Carbs: 16 g
- Fat: 34 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary depending on the ingredients used.)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the chicken and buffalo sauce mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just assemble the quesadillas and pan-fry them.
Can I freeze buffalo chicken quesadillas?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled quesadillas. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, cook in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, or bake them at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes.
Can I use a different protein?
Of course! Feel free to swap out the chicken for cooked ground beef, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. The buffalo sauce pairs well with a variety of proteins.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Leftover quesadillas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them back in a skillet over medium heat with a little butter until crispy and heated through. Alternatively, you can use the oven—bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
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CONCLUSION
Buffalo Chicken Quesadillas are the perfect combination of spicy, cheesy, and crispy, making them an irresistible dish for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch, dinner, or snack, these quesadillas are sure to satisfy your cravings. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can enjoy this delicious meal in no time. So, grab your tortillas and buffalo sauce, and get ready to indulge in a spicy, cheesy delight that everyone will love!
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Buffalo Chicken Quesadillas: A Spicy, Cheesy Delight
Description
There’s something magical about the combination of crispy tortillas, spicy buffalo sauce, and melted cheese. It’s a flavor pairing that never gets old, and it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. These Buffalo Chicken Quesadillas bring the best of both worlds—spicy, tangy buffalo chicken and gooey, cheesy goodness—wrapped up in a warm, golden tortilla. It’s a dish that’s quick to make, yet full of bold flavors that will have you coming back for more.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or whenever you’re in the mood for something deliciously indulgent. The beauty of these quesadillas is that they require just a handful of ingredients, but the flavor is far from basic. You’ll have a crispy, satisfying meal in minutes, without the fuss of complicated preparation.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- ½ cup buffalo sauce
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
Optional for Serving:
- Ranch dressing
- Fresh chopped cilantro
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling
Start by shredding your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, simply pull apart the meat with a fork. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce. Stir the mixture until the chicken is fully coated. The buffalo sauce is what gives this dish its signature flavor, so make sure to mix thoroughly for that bold kick in every bite.
Step 2: Butter the Tortillas
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, carefully place one tortilla in the pan, making sure it’s evenly spread out. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes or until the bottom starts to crisp up slightly. This step will ensure your tortilla gets golden and crispy once you add the fillings.
Step 3: Add the Cheese and Chicken
Sprinkle ½ cup of shredded cheese on top of the tortilla, followed by half of your buffalo chicken mixture. Add another layer of cheese on top of the chicken to ensure the quesadilla gets that melty, gooey center we all crave. The cheese helps everything stick together, creating a perfect balance of creamy and crunchy.
Step 4: Top with the Second Tortilla
Place the second tortilla on top of the chicken and cheese. Press down gently to help the quesadilla stick together. Continue to cook for about 2 minutes or until the bottom tortilla is golden and crispy.
Step 5: Flip and Cook the Other Side
Once the first side is crispy and golden brown, use a spatula to flip the quesadilla. Cook the other side for an additional 2 minutes, or until it’s equally golden and crispy. The key here is to cook the quesadilla on medium heat—too high, and it might burn before the cheese has a chance to melt. Too low, and it may not get crispy enough.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once both sides are cooked, remove the quesadilla from the pan and let it sit for a minute to cool slightly. Then, slice it into wedges for easy serving. For an added touch, you can drizzle ranch dressing on top or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover cooked chicken, or freshly grilled chicken. Shredding the chicken makes it easier to mix with the buffalo sauce and ensures even flavor distribution.
- Buffalo Sauce: Feel free to adjust the amount of buffalo sauce depending on your desired spice level. If you like it milder, reduce the buffalo sauce and add a little cream cheese to balance the heat.
- Tortillas: If you need a gluten-free option, simply swap the flour tortillas for gluten-free ones. You can also use whole wheat tortillas for a slightly healthier alternative.
- Cheese: A Mexican cheese blend works well, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as cheddar or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
- Butter: If you’re looking to reduce calories, you can substitute butter with olive oil or avocado oil, though it may slightly change the flavor and crispiness of the quesadillas.
- Storage: Leftover quesadillas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet for the best crispy texture.