Healthy Chicken Quesadillas
A simple, nutritious, and comforting meal that uses lean protein and fresh veggies for a perfectly balanced weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken chicken breast is highly preferred
- 4 large whole wheat tortillas 8-inch or 10-inch size
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers any color
- 1/2 cup black beans rinsed and thoroughly drained
- 1/2 cup sweet corn kernels canned or frozen
- 1/2 cup reduced-fat cheddar cheese freshly shredded
- olive oil cooking spray as needed
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, rinsed black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers.
- Add the cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix thoroughly to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Lay the tortillas flat. Sprinkle a small amount of cheese on one half of each tortilla, top with the chicken-veggie mixture, and add a final light sprinkle of cheese.
- Fold the empty half of the tortilla over the filling and press down gently to secure.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly coat with cooking spray.
- Place the quesadillas in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
- Remove from the heat, let rest for 2 minutes, then cut into triangles and serve.
Notes
For extra heat, add fresh jalapeños to the filling. You can also serve these with a side of Greek yogurt for a protein-packed alternative to sour cream.