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There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of chicken quesadillas sizzling in a skillet. Growing up in a family that adored Tex-Mex cuisine, I remember many evenings spent gathered around the dinner table, laughter filling the air as we dug into cheesy, flavorful dishes. One of my all-time favorites was the classic quesadilla, but I wanted to turn that nostalgia into something even more special, and that’s how I created my Cheesy Salsa Chicken Quesadilla Bake.

Cheesy Salsa Chicken Quesadilla Bake

Indulge in the comforting flavors of the Cheesy Salsa Chicken Quesadilla Bake, a family favorite that combines convenience and deliciousness. With shredded chicken, spicy salsa, black beans, and melted cheese stuffed into crispy tortillas, this dish is about easy assembly and satisfying taste. Perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner, it's sure to please every palate. Add your favorite toppings for a delightful culinary experience that brings everyone together!

Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken is convenient)

1 cup salsa (choose mild or spicy based on your taste)

1 cup corn (canned or frozen, thoroughly thawed)

1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend

8 large flour tortillas

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 tablespoon olive oil

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Sour cream (for serving)

Avocado slices (for serving)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, salsa, corn, black beans, 1 cup of the shredded cheese, ground cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix all ingredients well until everything is evenly coated.

      Assemble the Quesadillas: On a clean surface, place a tortilla flat. Take about ½ cup of the chicken mixture and spread it evenly over one half of the tortilla. Carefully fold the other half over to create a half-moon shape. Repeat this step for all the tortillas you have.

        Cook the Quesadillas: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add a folded quesadilla to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until the tortilla turns golden brown and the cheese is melted. Remove the cooked quesadilla from the skillet and set aside. Continue with the remaining quesadillas.

          Layer in the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange the cooked quesadillas snugly side by side in the dish. If needed, cut them in half or quarters to fit properly.

            Add Cheese Topping: Evenly sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheese over the top of the arranged quesadillas.

              Bake: Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You're looking for the cheese to become bubbly and slightly golden.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve warm alongside sour cream and slices of avocado for a delicious finish.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6

                    - Presentation Tip: For a beautiful serving, place the quesadilla bake on a large platter, drizzling some additional salsa on top and scattering cilantro leaves around the dish for color.