Short Description
This homemade Taco Bell Chicken Quesadilla copycat recipe delivers the same bold flavors as the fast-food favorite. Featuring tender, seasoned chicken, melty cheese, and a creamy, spicy quesadilla sauce, this easy-to-make meal is perfect for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack. Enjoy the crispy, golden tortilla with all the cheesy goodness right from your own kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tastes just like Taco Bell’s quesadilla – A perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors.
- Simple and quick – Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Customizable – Adjust spice levels, add veggies, or switch up the protein.
- Crispy, golden tortilla with gooey melted cheese – The ultimate comfort food.
- Made with pantry staples – No need for special ingredients!
Ingredients
For the Quesadilla Sauce:
¼ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sour cream
1 teaspoon taco seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
For the Quesadilla:
1 cup cooked, shredded or diced chicken
½ teaspoon taco seasoning (for the chicken)
4 large flour tortillas
1 ½ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (or a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella)
1 tablespoon butter or oil (for cooking)
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
1. Make the Quesadilla Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, taco seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper until smooth.
- Set aside or refrigerate until ready to use.
2. Prepare the Chicken
- If using pre-cooked chicken, toss it with ½ teaspoon taco seasoning for added flavor.
- If using raw chicken, season with taco seasoning and cook in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Dice or shred it into small pieces.
3. Assemble the Quesadilla
- Spread a thin layer of quesadilla sauce over one side of each flour tortilla.
- Sprinkle ¼ cup of shredded cheese over half of each tortilla.
- Add ¼ of the cooked chicken on top of the cheese.
- Sprinkle another ¼ cup of cheese over the chicken.
- Fold the tortilla in half to create a half-moon shape.
4. Cook the Quesadilla
- Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Place the quesadilla in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
- Repeat with the remaining quesadillas.
5. Slice and Serve
- Let the quesadillas cool for a minute before slicing them into triangles.
- Serve with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for dipping.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 quesadillas
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version – Add diced jalapeños or extra cayenne pepper to the sauce.
- Loaded Quesadilla – Add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Different Proteins – Use steak, shrimp, or grilled vegetables instead of chicken.
- Healthier Option – Use whole wheat tortillas and Greek yogurt instead of mayo.
- Extra Crispy – Brush tortillas with melted butter before cooking for a restaurant-style crisp.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze assembled but uncooked quesadillas in a ziplock bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep them crispy.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?
Yes! It saves time and works perfectly in this recipe.
What type of cheese does Taco Bell use?
Taco Bell uses a blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella, which you can replicate with a Mexican cheese blend.
How do I make this quesadilla crispier?
Cook on medium heat with butter or oil and press the quesadilla lightly with a spatula while cooking.
Can I make the quesadilla sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
What’s the best tortilla to use?
Large flour tortillas work best, as they crisp up well and hold the filling securely.
Can I bake these instead of pan-frying?
Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free tortillas and check that your taco seasoning is gluten-free.
How can I reduce the spice level?
Omit the cayenne pepper and use a mild taco seasoning.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free cheese and a vegan mayo substitute for the sauce.
What sides go well with this quesadilla?
Serve with refried beans, Mexican rice, or a fresh side salad.
Conclusion
This Taco Bell Chicken Quesadilla Copycat recipe brings all the flavors of the fast-food favorite right into your kitchen. With a creamy, spicy sauce, gooey melted cheese, and perfectly seasoned chicken, this easy-to-make dish is perfect for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy the taste of Taco Bell at home!
Print
Taco Bell Chicken Quesadilla Copycat
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 quesadillas (4 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Taco Bell Chicken Quesadilla Copycat recipe recreates the fast-food favorite at home! With tender, seasoned chicken, gooey melted cheese, and a creamy, slightly spicy quesadilla sauce, this easy-to-make meal is perfect for lunch, dinner, or a late-night snack
Ingredients
Notes
✔ For extra spice, add a dash of hot sauce or chipotle powder to the sauce.
✔ Want it crispier? Use a cast-iron skillet for even browning.
✔ Make it a meal! Serve with Mexican rice, refried beans, or tortilla chips.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10minutes
- Category: Main Course, Snack
- Method: Stovetop
