Shredded Chicken Quesadilla Bake

Name: Shredded Chicken Quesadilla Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups shredded cooked chicken; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack); 1 cup salsa; 1 teaspoon taco seasoning; 8 large flour tortillas; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional); Cooking spray or olive oil

Highlighted under: Warm & Tasty

I absolutely love making this Shredded Chicken Quesadilla Bake for family gatherings and game nights. It’s not only super easy to prepare, but it also tastes fantastic with its melty cheese and zesty chicken filling. The combination of crispy tortillas and gooey filling creates a delightful texture that keeps everyone coming back for more. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll want to add it to your regular weeknight rotation. Preparing this dish makes me feel nostalgic, as it reminds me of family gatherings where everyone shared the same love for delicious food.

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-27T18:05:35.820Z

When I first made this Shredded Chicken Quesadilla Bake, I was blown away by how simple yet delicious it was. The key to making it so flavorful is to season the chicken well before shredding it. I usually let it marinate while I prepare the other ingredients, allowing the spices to penetrate deeply, resulting in a juicy, vibrant filling.

One tip that I swear by is baking the quesadilla in layers. This not only ensures an even melt of cheese but also prevents the bottom tortilla from getting soggy. I love serving it with a side of salsa and guacamole for extra flavor!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and savory shredded chicken with melty cheese
Crispy tortillas that provide a satisfying crunch
Perfect for feeding a crowd or as a family weeknight dinner

Tips for Perfecting Your Quesadilla Bake

To achieve a perfectly golden and crispy quesadilla bake, make sure to layer your tortillas and filling evenly. Using a large baking dish, such as a 9x13-inch glass or ceramic dish, allows for enough space to prevent overcrowding. If you notice uneven browning during baking, rotating the dish halfway through can help to evenly distribute heat and ensure all parts get that desired crispy exterior.

Another essential aspect is the cheese. Using a combination like cheddar and Monterey Jack not only enhances the flavor but also provides a blend of creaminess and meltability, creating that gooey texture everyone loves. For extra flavor, consider using pepper jack for a spicy kick, or a Mexican blend for an eclectic twist.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

The shredded cooked chicken can be replaced with other proteins like turkey or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian option, such as shredded jackfruit or tofu. Ensure any alternative has a similar texture and moisture level to avoid a dry dish. If using canned or pre-cooked chicken, look for options labeled low-sodium to prevent your bake from becoming overly salty, especially considering the saltiness in the cheese and salsa.

For those watching their carbs, consider substituting the flour tortillas with corn tortillas or even lettuce wraps for a lighter version. Keep in mind that corn tortillas might require slightly more finesse while assembling, as they tend to break more easily than flour tortillas.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make the perfect quesadilla bake:

For the Quesadilla Bake

3 cups shredded cooked chicken
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
1 cup salsa
1 teaspoon taco seasoning
8 large flour tortillas
1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
Cooking spray or olive oil

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go before starting the baking process for best results!

Instructions

To prepare the Shredded Chicken Quesadilla Bake, follow these simple steps:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, salsa, taco seasoning, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Assemble the Quesadilla Bake

Layer 4 tortillas in the baking dish, then spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas. Add another tortilla layer and repeat with the remaining chicken and cheese. Top with the last 4 tortillas.

Bake the Quesadilla

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. After that, remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Serve

Let the quesadilla bake cool for a few minutes, then cut into squares and serve with optional cilantro, salsa, and guacamole.

Enjoy your deliciously cheesy Shredded Chicken Quesadilla Bake!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding black beans or corn to the chicken mixture. You can also use a mix of different cheeses for a unique twist.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This quesadilla bake can be prepared ahead of time, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or gatherings. You can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time if you're cooking it straight from the fridge, ensuring it heats all the way through.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the dish with foil to retain moisture and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For best results, consider reheating in the oven rather than the microwave to help maintain the crispiness of the tortillas.

Creative Serving Suggestions

While the quesadilla bake is delicious on its own, it shines even more when served with sides and toppings. Pair it with homemade guacamole, fresh pico de gallo, or a tangy sour cream to enhance the flavors. You can sprinkle extra cilantro or fresh lime juice on top right before serving for a bright finish.

For a fun twist, consider turning this dish into a taco-style serving. Cut it into wedges and place them on a large platter with various toppings nearby, allowing guests to customize their bites. This interactive dining experience can be particularly enjoyable during gatherings or game nights!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe.

→ Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables or black beans.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can assemble the quesadilla bake and freeze it before baking. Just let it thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.