Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, these chicken and bacon quesadillas are ideal! Packed with flavor and easy to make, this dish combines shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and cheesy goodness all wrapped in flour tortillas. Perfect for a quick dinner or a fun snack, these quesadillas are sure to please the whole family.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
4-5 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/2 cup ranch dressing
4 large flour tortillas (burrito size)
4 tablespoons butter
1-2 cups shredded cheese (quesadilla cheese recommended)
Optional: guacamole, salsa, additional ranch dressing for serving
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Instructions
1. In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crisp.
2. Remove bacon from skillet and chop into small pieces.
3. Allow the skillet to cool slightly and remove the drippings from the pan. Wipe out the skillet with a paper towel, if necessary.
4. In a bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing.
5. In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
6. Place one tortilla into the buttered skillet and top with 1/2 cup of the chicken mixture.
7. Top with a handful of shredded cheese.
8. Fold the tortilla in half to cover the filling.
9. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and cheese is melted.
10. Remove from the skillet and keep warm.
11. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
To Serve
Cut each quesadilla into thirds and serve with guacamole, salsa, and additional ranch dressing. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet, cook the bacon strips over medium heat until they are crisp. This will take about 5-7 minutes, depending on the thickness of the bacon.
Step 2: Chop the Bacon
Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease. After a few minutes, chop the bacon into small pieces.
Step 3: Prepare the Skillet
Allow the skillet to cool down slightly. Carefully pour out the drippings, being cautious of any splatters. If necessary, wipe out the skillet with a paper towel to remove any remaining grease.
Step 4: Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, and ranch dressing. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 5: Melt Butter in the Skillet
Return the skillet to the stove and set it over medium-low heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt completely, coating the bottom of the skillet.
Step 6: Fill the Tortilla
Place one of the large flour tortillas into the buttered skillet. Spoon about 1/2 cup of the chicken and bacon mixture onto one half of the tortilla.
Step 7: Add Shredded Cheese
Top the chicken mixture with a handful of shredded cheese, ensuring it is evenly distributed over the filling.
Step 8: Fold the Tortilla
Carefully fold the tortilla in half, covering the filling. Press down gently to seal the edges.
Step 9: Cook the Quesadilla
Cook the quesadilla for 2-3 minutes on one side or until it turns golden brown. Flip it over and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
Step 10: Keep Warm
Once cooked, remove the quesadilla from the skillet and place it on a plate. Keep warm while you repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Step 11: Repeat for Remaining Quesadillas
Continue the process with the remaining ingredients, melting 1 tablespoon of butter for each quesadilla and using the chicken filling and cheese.
Notes
Serving Suggestion
Cut each quesadilla into thirds to serve.
Optional Accompaniments
Consider serving the quesadillas with guacamole, salsa, and additional ranch dressing for dipping.
Adjusting Ingredients
Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese used or try different varieties based on your preference.
Cook techniques
Searing
Searing is a technique that involves cooking the tortilla in a hot skillet with butter, giving it a golden-brown color and a delicious flavor. It creates a crispy texture on the outside while keeping the filling warm and cheesy inside.
Folding
Folding the tortilla in half allows for even cooking and easy handling. This method ensures that the filling stays contained while the quesadilla cooks, making it easier to flip and serve.
Layering
Layering the filling with chicken, bacon, and cheese ensures that every bite is flavorful. Using shredded cheese allows it to melt evenly, binding the filling together.
Melting
Melting cheese properly is essential for a gooey, satisfying quesadilla. Cooking it until melted ensures that the ingredients meld together, enhancing the overall taste and texture.
Keeping Warm
Keeping the cooked quesadillas warm in a towel or a low-temperature oven helps maintain their heat and freshness while preparing additional ones.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute the shredded chicken with other meats like turkey, beef, or even keep it vegetarian with beans or vegetables.
What type of cheese is best for quesadillas?
Quesadilla cheese or a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack works great for melting and flavor. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses.
How can I make these quesadillas healthier?
You can use whole wheat tortillas, low-fat ranch dressing, and reduce the amount of cheese or bacon for a lighter option.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and bacon mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to make the quesadillas.
Is it possible to customize the toppings?
Definitely! You can add diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or other favorite toppings to the filling or serve with various dips like guacamole or salsa.
Conclusion
The Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadillas are a delicious and easy meal that combines savory flavors and creamy textures. With the combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and rich ranch dressing, these quesadillas are sure to please everyone at the table. Pairing them with guacamole, salsa, and extra ranch dressing enhances the flavor and makes for a satisfying dish.
Spicy Chicken Quesadillas
Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
Veggie-Loaded Quesadillas
Incorporate sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach into the filling for a nutritious twist.
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Mix BBQ sauce with the chicken in place of ranch dressing to create a smoky variation.
Buffalo Chicken Quesadillas
Replace ranch dressing with Buffalo sauce and add blue cheese crumbles for a classic Buffalo flavor.
Cheesy Spinach Quesadillas
Add a layer of cream cheese and fresh spinach to the filling for a creamy, flavorful boost.
Breakfast Quesadillas
Use scrambled eggs, cooked bacon, and cheese for a hearty breakfast option.
Taco Quesadillas
Incorporate taco seasoning into the chicken mixture and add black beans for a Mexican-style treat.
