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High-Protein Chicken Ranch Quesadilla

High-Protein Chicken Ranch Quesadilla

High-Protein Chicken Ranch Quesadilla is a game-changer for quick, healthy meals, offering a delicious and satisfying way to fuel your day with lean protein and zesty ranch flavor. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something both fast and nutritious.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2 quesadillas
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large (10-inch) whole wheat or low-carb tortillas
  • 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut
  • 1/4 cup reduced-fat ranch dressing
  • 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup finely diced bell pepper any color
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives optional, for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley optional, for garnish
  • to taste salt
  • to taste freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup black beans optional, rinsed and drained, for added fiber and protein

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Cutting Board
  • Pizza Cutter

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken breast, reduced-fat ranch dressing, Monterey Jack cheese, cheddar cheese, diced red onion, diced bell pepper, and black beans (if using). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. The ranch dressing will act as a binder and also infuse the chicken with that classic ranch flavor.
    1 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast, 1/4 cup reduced-fat ranch dressing, 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup finely diced red onion, 1/4 cup finely diced bell pepper, 1/4 cup black beans, to taste salt, to taste freshly ground black pepper
  2. Lay one tortilla flat on a clean work surface. Spoon half of the chicken and cheese mixture evenly over one half of the tortilla, spreading it out towards the edges but leaving a small border. This ensures the filling won't spill out as easily when folded.
    2 large (10-inch) whole wheat or low-carb tortillas
  3. Carefully fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Repeat this process with the remaining tortilla and chicken mixture to create a second quesadilla.
  4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the folded quesadilla into the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is fully melted and gooey. You should see some of the cheese starting to ooze out slightly, a sign of perfection.
  5. Once cooked, carefully slide the quesadilla onto a cutting board. Let it sit for a minute before slicing it into wedges using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Garnish with fresh chives and parsley, if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite La Tortilla Factory accompaniments like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
    1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Notes

To store leftover quesadillas, allow them to cool completely, then wrap tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a dry skillet or toaster oven for best results.