These Blackstone Chicken Fajita Quesadillas are a fun and tasty twist on an old favorite! Loaded with juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and melted cheese, they’re perfect for sharing.
Honestly, who can resist that crunchy outside and cheesy inside? I love making these on a weekend while dancing around the kitchen. It’s a little party with every bite! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for these quesadillas as they cook quickly. If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option or even shredded rotisserie chicken for added convenience.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin give the chicken a great flavor. If you’re out of chili powder, use taco seasoning instead. For cumin, coriander can be a good alternative, though it has a slightly different taste.
Bell Peppers: You can use red, green, or even yellow bell peppers to add color and flavor. If you want a little heat, consider using jalapeños instead. Just remember to remove the seeds if you prefer less spice!
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are traditional, but if you’re looking for a healthier option, whole wheat or corn tortillas work well. Just keep in mind that corn tortillas can be more delicate.
Cheese: Shredded cheddar is delicious, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add a nice touch. You could even use a dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free option.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken breasts can sometimes be tricky, but with a few simple tips, you can ensure they’re juicy and flavorful. Make sure to marinate the chicken properly for at least 30 minutes to infuse them with flavor.
- Preheat the Blackstone griddle to a medium-high temperature before adding the chicken. This helps sear the outside.
- Cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F with a meat thermometer.
- Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Vegetables for Quesadillas?
Sautéing vegetables is a quick and easy process, but the right technique will bring out their flavors. Using the same griddle as the chicken adds extra flavor from the drippings!
- Add sliced bell pepper and onion to the griddle after removing the chicken.
- Cook them over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will give them a nice char and soften them up.
- If you like, sprinkle a little salt to enhance the flavor as they cook.
How to Make Blackstone Chicken Fajita Quesadillas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
For the Quesadillas:
- 6 flour tortillas (8-inch)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Optional Garnishes:
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Salsa
- Fresh cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep, 20 minutes for cooking, and an additional 30 minutes for marinating the chicken. In total, you’ll need around 1 hour to get these delicious quesadillas ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Then, add the chicken breasts to the bowl, making sure they are coated evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it sit for about 30 minutes to soak up all those wonderful flavors.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat. After 30 minutes, place the marinated chicken on the hot griddle. Cook for 6-8 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, remove the chicken from the griddle and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same area on the griddle where you cooked the chicken, add the sliced bell pepper and onion. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are softened and lightly charred. When cooked, remove them from heat and set aside.
4. Assemble the Quesadillas:
To build your quesadilla, take one tortilla and sprinkle some shredded cheese on it. Next, add a layer of sliced chicken, followed by the sautéed peppers and onions. Top it all with a little more cheese for extra cheesiness! Finally, place another tortilla on top of the filled one.
5. Cook the Quesadillas:
Lower the heat to medium on your griddle and carefully place the assembled quesadilla onto it. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, then flip and do the same on the other side. You’ll know they’re done when the cheese is melted and everything is nice and warm!
6. Serve:
Once cooked, take the quesadilla off the griddle and cut it into wedges. Serve immediately with optional garnishes like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or fresh cilantro. Enjoy your delicious Blackstone Chicken Fajita Quesadillas!
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, pre-cooked chicken works perfectly. Just shred or chop it and skip the marinating and cooking steps. Simply sauté the vegetables, assemble the quesadillas, and cook until the tortillas are golden and the cheese is melted.
What Can I Substitute for Flour Tortillas?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use corn tortillas. They may be smaller, so you might want to use two for each quesadilla or adjust the filling accordingly. You can also try whole wheat or spinach tortillas for a different flavor and texture.
How to Store Leftover Quesadillas
Store any leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side to maintain that crispy texture, or you can pop them in the microwave for a quick fix!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Quesadillas?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with additional veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or even corn. Just make sure to sauté any extra ingredients until they’re tender before assembling the quesadillas.
