Taco Bell Copycat Chicken Quesadilla Simple Recipe

October 19, 2025February 8, 2025 by Emma

If you crave Taco Bell’s Chicken Quesadilla but want to save money, I’ve got the perfect recipe for you! In this blog post, I will guide you through making a tasty Taco Bell Copycat Chicken Quesadilla right at home. You’ll learn how to prepare the chicken filling, choose the best ingredients, and avoid common mistakes. Let’s get started on this simple, delicious journey to quesadilla paradise!

Why I Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor: This quesadilla is packed with a creamy and cheesy filling that mimics the beloved Taco Bell taste.
Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these quesadillas for a satisfying meal or snack.
Customizable: You can easily modify the filling by adding your favorite ingredients, such as peppers or onions.
Perfect for Any Occasion: These quesadillas are great for a quick lunch, dinner, or even a party appetizer!

Ingredients

Complete list of ingredients

To make the Taco Bell Copycat Chicken Quesadilla, you need:

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

– ½ cup cream cheese, softened

– ½ teaspoon garlic powder

– ½ teaspoon onion powder

– 1 teaspoon taco seasoning

– 4 large flour tortillas

– 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

– Salsa (for serving)

– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Recommended brands for the best flavor

For the best taste, I suggest using:

– Chicken: Rotisserie chicken adds great flavor.

– Cheddar Cheese: Tillamook or Kraft make excellent choices.

– Cream Cheese: Philadelphia is a well-known brand you can trust.

– Taco Seasoning: Old El Paso or McCormick provide nice spice blends.

These brands help give your quesadilla that authentic taste.

Ingredient substitutions for dietary needs

If you have dietary needs, here are some swaps:

– Chicken: Use shredded tofu for a vegetarian option.

– Cheese: Try dairy-free cheese if you’re lactose intolerant.

– Tortillas: Corn tortillas can replace flour for a gluten-free option.

– Cream Cheese: Use cashew cream for a vegan twist.

These changes let everyone enjoy your delicious quesadilla!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the chicken filling

To start, grab a medium bowl. You need to mix the shredded chicken, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and taco seasoning. Stir well until everything is combined. This mix gives your quesadilla that creamy and tasty filling. Make sure the cream cheese is soft. It helps the mix blend smoothly.

Assembling the quesadilla

Next, take one large flour tortilla. Spread a quarter of your chicken mix over half of the tortilla. Top this with about ⅓ cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Fold the tortilla in half to cover the filling. Press down gently to seal it. This step keeps the filling inside while cooking.

Cooking tips for perfect crispiness

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place your quesadilla in the skillet. Cook it for about 2-3 minutes until it turns golden brown. Carefully flip the quesadilla. If the skillet looks dry, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the cheese melts and the tortilla crisps up. Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and cut it into wedges. Repeat the process with the rest of your tortillas and filling. Enjoy these crispy delights warm with salsa and fresh cilantro on top.

Tips & Tricks

How to achieve the best flavor

To get the best flavor, use fresh ingredients. Fresh herbs, like cilantro, enhance your dish. Choose quality chicken for the filling. You can roast or grill it for extra taste. Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich texture. Taco seasoning adds a nice kick, so don’t skip it. If you want more flavor, add a squeeze of lime.

Cooking utensils and tools for ease

Having the right tools makes cooking easier. A large skillet works best for frying the quesadillas. You need a spatula to flip them safely. Use a medium bowl for mixing your filling. A sharp knife helps cut quesadillas into wedges. Consider using a cutting board to protect your counters. If you have a food processor, it can shred chicken quickly.

Common mistakes to avoid

One mistake is overstuffing the quesadilla. This makes it hard to flip. Another error is not preheating the skillet. A hot pan creates a crispy texture. Don’t rush the cooking time; each side needs 2-3 minutes. Lastly, avoid using low-fat cream cheese. It won’t melt as well, affecting the taste.

Pro Tips

Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker option, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds great flavor!
Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added flavor and spice.
Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill your quesadillas. This can make them difficult to flip and cause the filling to spill out.
Keep It Warm: If making multiple quesadillas, keep them warm in a low oven (200°F) while you cook the rest to ensure they stay crispy.

Variations

Vegetarian alternative

To make a vegetarian version of the quesadilla, swap the chicken for black beans or grilled veggies. You can use 2 cups of cooked black beans or a mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and onions. This adds great flavor and texture. Also, keep the cream cheese and cheddar cheese for richness. You will still enjoy the same cheesy goodness without meat.

Spicy twist options

If you love heat, add jalapeños or hot sauce. You can mix in 1-2 tablespoons of chopped jalapeños into the chicken mixture. For extra spice, drizzle hot sauce on the finished quesadilla. This will give your meal a nice kick. Just be careful; you can always add more heat, but you can’t take it away!

Using different cheeses

Cheese is key to a great quesadilla. While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix it up. Try using pepper jack cheese for a spicy flavor. Or, use mozzarella for a milder taste and gooey texture. You can even blend different cheeses for a unique twist. Just aim for about 1 ½ cups of cheese to keep it cheesy and delicious.

Storage Info

Tips for storing leftovers

Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh. You can place wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can last in the fridge for up to three days. If you want them longer, consider freezing.

How to reheat quesadillas

To reheat, use a skillet for the best results. Heat it over medium heat. Add a little oil to the pan for crispiness. Place the quesadilla in the skillet for about two to three minutes per side. You can also use a microwave, but it may make them soggy.

Freezing instructions for meal prep

To freeze, wrap each quesadilla tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as you can. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

How to make Taco Bell Copycat Chicken Quesadilla from scratch?

To make this quesadilla from scratch, start with cooked chicken. Shred about 2 cups of it. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with ½ cup of softened cream cheese, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of taco seasoning. Mix until everything blends well. Take a large flour tortilla and spread a quarter of the chicken mix over one half. Add ⅓ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Fold the tortilla in half. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the quesadilla for 2-3 minutes until golden. Flip it and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Cut into wedges and enjoy with salsa.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version. Simply swap regular flour tortillas for gluten-free tortillas. Many brands offer tasty options that work well. Check for cross-contamination if you have a severe allergy. The filling remains the same, so you can enjoy the same great taste.

What are the nutritional facts for Taco Bell Copycat Chicken Quesadilla?

Each serving of this quesadilla has about 400-500 calories. It packs around 20-25 grams of protein. The fat content can be around 25 grams, depending on the cheese and oil used. There are also carbs from the flour tortillas, which can be about 40 grams per quesadilla. Check specific brands for exact values, as they can vary.

How can I customize my quesadilla filling?

You can get creative with your filling! Try adding black beans, corn, or even diced peppers for extra flavor. Want it spicy? Add jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. For a cheesy twist, mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese. Each option can give your quesadilla a unique taste that you’ll love.

In this article, we explored how to make a Taco Bell Copycat Chicken Quesadilla. We detailed the key ingredients and shared brand recommendations. You learned step-by-step instructions for preparing and cooking. We discussed helpful tips to enhance flavor and avoid common mistakes. Variations for vegetarians and spice fans were highlighted, too. Don’t forget about storage tips for leftovers. Enjoy crafting your own delicious quesadillas, whether for a meal or snack. With these insights, you’re ready to impress everyone with your tasty creation

$To make the Taco Bell Copycat Chicken Quesadilla, you need: - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese - ½ cup cream cheese, softened - ½ teaspoon garlic powder - ½ teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon taco seasoning - 4 large flour tortillas - 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying) - Salsa (for serving) - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) For the best taste, I suggest using: - Chicken: Rotisserie chicken adds great flavor. - Cheddar Cheese: Tillamook or Kraft make excellent choices. - Cream Cheese: Philadelphia is a well-known brand you can trust. - Taco Seasoning: Old El Paso or McCormick provide nice spice blends. These brands help give your quesadilla that authentic taste. If you have dietary needs, here are some swaps: - Chicken: Use shredded tofu for a vegetarian option. - Cheese: Try dairy-free cheese if you're lactose intolerant. - Tortillas: Corn tortillas can replace flour for a gluten-free option. - Cream Cheese: Use cashew cream for a vegan twist. These changes let everyone enjoy your delicious quesadilla! {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, grab a medium bowl. You need to mix the shredded chicken, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and taco seasoning. Stir well until everything is combined. This mix gives your quesadilla that creamy and tasty filling. Make sure the cream cheese is soft. It helps the mix blend smoothly. Next, take one large flour tortilla. Spread a quarter of your chicken mix over half of the tortilla. Top this with about ⅓ cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Fold the tortilla in half to cover the filling. Press down gently to seal it. This step keeps the filling inside while cooking. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place your quesadilla in the skillet. Cook it for about 2-3 minutes until it turns golden brown. Carefully flip the quesadilla. If the skillet looks dry, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the cheese melts and the tortilla crisps up. Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and cut it into wedges. Repeat the process with the rest of your tortillas and filling. Enjoy these crispy delights warm with salsa and fresh cilantro on top. To get the best flavor, use fresh ingredients. Fresh herbs, like cilantro, enhance your dish. Choose quality chicken for the filling. You can roast or grill it for extra taste. Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich texture. Taco seasoning adds a nice kick, so don’t skip it. If you want more flavor, add a squeeze of lime. Having the right tools makes cooking easier. A large skillet works best for frying the quesadillas. You need a spatula to flip them safely. Use a medium bowl for mixing your filling. A sharp knife helps cut quesadillas into wedges. Consider using a cutting board to protect your counters. If you have a food processor, it can shred chicken quickly. One mistake is overstuffing the quesadilla. This makes it hard to flip. Another error is not preheating the skillet. A hot pan creates a crispy texture. Don’t rush the cooking time; each side needs 2-3 minutes. Lastly, avoid using low-fat cream cheese. It won’t melt as well, affecting the taste. Pro Tips Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker option, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds great flavor! Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added flavor and spice. Don't Overfill: Be careful not to overfill your quesadillas. This can make them difficult to flip and cause the filling to spill out. Keep It Warm: If making multiple quesadillas, keep them warm in a low oven (200°F) while you cook the rest to ensure they stay crispy. {{image_2}} To make a vegetarian version of the quesadilla, swap the chicken for black beans or grilled veggies. You can use 2 cups of cooked black beans or a mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and onions. This adds great flavor and texture. Also, keep the cream cheese and cheddar cheese for richness. You will still enjoy the same cheesy goodness without meat. If you love heat, add jalapeños or hot sauce. You can mix in 1-2 tablespoons of chopped jalapeños into the chicken mixture. For extra spice, drizzle hot sauce on the finished quesadilla. This will give your meal a nice kick. Just be careful; you can always add more heat, but you can't take it away! Cheese is key to a great quesadilla. While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix it up. Try using pepper jack cheese for a spicy flavor. Or, use mozzarella for a milder taste and gooey texture. You can even blend different cheeses for a unique twist. Just aim for about 1 ½ cups of cheese to keep it cheesy and delicious. Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh. You can place wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can last in the fridge for up to three days. If you want them longer, consider freezing. To reheat, use a skillet for the best results. Heat it over medium heat. Add a little oil to the pan for crispiness. Place the quesadilla in the skillet for about two to three minutes per side. You can also use a microwave, but it may make them soggy. To freeze, wrap each quesadilla tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as you can. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. To make this quesadilla from scratch, start with cooked chicken. Shred about 2 cups of it. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with ½ cup of softened cream cheese, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of taco seasoning. Mix until everything blends well. Take a large flour tortilla and spread a quarter of the chicken mix over one half. Add ⅓ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Fold the tortilla in half. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the quesadilla for 2-3 minutes until golden. Flip it and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Cut into wedges and enjoy with salsa. Yes, you can make a gluten-free version. Simply swap regular flour tortillas for gluten-free tortillas. Many brands offer tasty options that work well. Check for cross-contamination if you have a severe allergy. The filling remains the same, so you can enjoy the same great taste. Each serving of this quesadilla has about 400-500 calories. It packs around 20-25 grams of protein. The fat content can be around 25 grams, depending on the cheese and oil used. There are also carbs from the flour tortillas, which can be about 40 grams per quesadilla. Check specific brands for exact values, as they can vary. You can get creative with your filling! Try adding black beans, corn, or even diced peppers for extra flavor. Want it spicy? Add jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. For a cheesy twist, mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese. Each option can give your quesadilla a unique taste that you'll love. In this article, we explored how to make a Taco Bell Copycat Chicken Quesadilla. We detailed the key ingredients and shared brand recommendations. You learned step-by-step instructions for preparing and cooking. We discussed helpful tips to enhance flavor and avoid common mistakes. Variations for vegetarians and spice fans were highlighted, too. Don't forget about storage tips for leftovers. Enjoy crafting your own delicious quesadillas, whether for a meal or snack. With these insights, you’re ready to impress everyone with your tasty creations!$