Simple and Easy High Protein Chicken Quesadillas: 25 Minutes, 1 Pan, 40g+ Protein

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These simple and easy high protein chicken quesadillas are a quick, cheesy, satisfying meal perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. With tender shredded chicken, melty cheese, and your favorite seasonings tucked into golden, crispy tortillas — they’re a clean, high-protein comfort food you can feel good about.

Using cooked chicken (like rotisserie), whole wheat or high-protein tortillas, and a generous amount of lean protein, these quesadillas are easy to make and easy to customize. They deliver bold flavor, plenty of protein, and a crunchy, gooey texture that always hits the spot.

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Ingredients Overview

Cooked Chicken
Use shredded rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken breast, or leftover baked chicken. Lean and full of flavor, it’s the protein star of the recipe.

Shredded Cheese
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend melt beautifully. Use low-fat cheese for a lighter version or add cottage cheese for extra protein.

High Protein Tortillas
Choose whole wheat or low-carb, high-protein tortillas to boost fiber and reduce empty carbs.

Greek Yogurt or Cottage Cheese (Optional)
Mix into the filling for extra creaminess and a protein bump. Blends well with shredded chicken.

Seasonings
Taco seasoning, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, or smoked paprika all add flavor. Keep it mild or spicy depending on your taste.

Optional Add-Ins

• Chopped spinach or bell peppers
• Jalapeños
• Sautéed onions or mushrooms
• Black beans (for non-low carb)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Filling
   In a bowl, mix:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or cottage cheese (optional)
• 1 tsp taco seasoning or spices of choice
• Optional: ¼ cup finely chopped veggies

Stir to combine evenly.

2. Assemble the Quesadillas
   Lay out 4 high-protein tortillas. Spread the chicken mixture evenly over half of each tortilla. Fold the other half over to form a half-moon shape.
3. Cook the Quesadillas
   Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil or cooking spray. Place quesadillas in the pan (1–2 at a time) and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, pressing gently, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
4. Slice and Serve
   Remove from the pan and let rest for 1–2 minutes before slicing into wedges. Serve hot with Greek yogurt, salsa, guacamole, or hot sauce.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Add More Protein
Use extra chicken, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast, or mix in a bit of protein powder (unflavored) into the filling if desired.

Make It Spicy
Add jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, or a drizzle of hot sauce in the filling.

Meal Prep Tip
Assemble quesadillas ahead of time, then cook when ready to eat. Or cook, cool, and refrigerate — reheat in a skillet or toaster oven.

Lower Carb Option
Use low-carb tortillas and skip beans. Add more veggies to increase volume.

Cheese Alternatives
Use a mix of low-fat mozzarella and cheddar for reduced fat, or dairy-free cheese if needed.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

These chicken quesadillas are perfect for quick lunches, post-workout dinners, or meal prep containers. Serve with:

• A fresh side salad
• Steamed or sautéed vegetables
• Salsa, guac, or hot sauce

Great for kids, teens, and adults alike — high-protein, super tasty, and endlessly customizable.

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Nutritional & Health Notes

With over 40 grams of protein per serving (2 tortillas with filling), this meal is excellent for building or maintaining lean muscle. Using Greek yogurt and high-protein tortillas adds extra protein and fiber.

They’re naturally low in sugar, easy to make gluten-free, and adaptable to low-carb or low-fat diets. Portion-controlled, balanced, and ready in under 30 minutes.

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FAQs

1. Can I use canned chicken?
Yes — just drain well and mix with seasonings before adding cheese.

2. How do I keep quesadillas from getting soggy?
Use minimal moisture in the filling and cook over medium heat for a crisp finish. Don’t overfill.

3. What’s the best cheese for quesadillas?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend melts well and adds flavor. For more protein, use part-skim mozzarella or low-fat cheese.

4. Can I freeze them?
Yes. Assemble and freeze uncooked between parchment, or freeze cooked quesadillas and reheat in a skillet or oven.

5. Are they good cold?
They’re best hot, but can be eaten cold or at room temp — great for lunchboxes or on-the-go meals.

6. How can I add more fiber?
Use whole grain or high-fiber tortillas and mix in chopped veggies like spinach or bell pepper.

7. Are these gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortillas and double-check all ingredients to make it gluten-free friendly.

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