Buffalo Chicken Quesadillas: A Spicy, Cheesy Twist You’ll Love
When the craving for something cheesy, spicy, and satisfying kicks in, few recipes deliver quite like Buffalo chicken quesadillas. Combining the bold heat of buffalo sauce with the comforting melt of gooey cheese wrapped in golden, crispy tortillas, this dish is a flavor-packed meal that works just as well for lunch, dinner, or even as a game-day snack. Unlike ordinary quesadillas, this version brings a zesty kick that wakes up your taste buds while still offering that cozy, homemade comfort food vibe.
Buffalo chicken quesadillas are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet indulgent, or when entertaining friends who love bold flavors. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-worthy meal in under 30 minutes. The best part is how customizable the recipe is—whether you like it extra spicy, extra cheesy, or loaded with veggies, you can make it your own.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a complete list of what you’ll need to prepare buffalo chicken quesadillas. The calorie counts are approximate and based on standard serving sizes:
| Ingredient | Amount | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked chicken breast | 2 cups, shredded | 330 |
| Buffalo wing sauce | ½ cup | 50 |
| Flour tortillas (large) | 4 | 600 |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup | 400 |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 1 cup | 320 |
| Cream cheese (optional) | 2 tbsp | 100 |
| Green onions, sliced | ¼ cup | 10 |
| Butter or oil (for skillet) | 2 tbsp | 200 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with buffalo sauce until the meat is evenly coated. For extra creaminess, mix in cream cheese.
- Assemble the Quesadillas
- Place a tortilla on a flat surface. Sprinkle half with a layer of cheddar and mozzarella.
- Add a generous portion of the buffalo chicken mixture, then top with green onions.
- Sprinkle more cheese on top before folding the tortilla in half.
- Cook on the Skillet
- Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the folded quesadilla in the pan.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy, and the cheese has melted.
- Slice and Serve
- Remove from skillet, let rest for a minute, then cut into wedges. Serve warm with dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even blue cheese crumbles for a stronger bite.
- Spice It Up: Add jalapeños or use extra-hot buffalo sauce.
- Veggie Boost: Include bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added texture and nutrition.
- Healthier Option: Use whole wheat tortillas, reduced-fat cheese, and grilled chicken breast.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare the buffalo chicken mixture in advance and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~380 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | ~720mg |
Serving Suggestions
Buffalo chicken quesadillas pair wonderfully with:
- A side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
- A crisp green salad to balance the richness
- Celery and carrot sticks for a classic Buffalo-style touch
- Sweet potato fries or nachos for a hearty game-day spread
- An ice-cold beer, sparkling water, or lemonade to cool down the spice
Buffalo Chicken Quesadillas: A Spicy, Cheesy Twist You’ll Love
4
servings10
minutes15
minutes300
kcalIngredients
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
½ cup buffalo wing sauce
4 large flour tortillas
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp cream cheese (optional, for creaminess)
¼ cup sliced green onions
2 tbsp butter or oil (for skillet)
Directions
- Mix the Filling – In a bowl, combine shredded chicken with buffalo sauce. Add cream cheese if using.
- Assemble Quesadillas – Lay a tortilla flat, sprinkle with cheese, add chicken mixture, top with green onions, then more cheese. Fold in half.
- Cook – Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each quesadilla for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and cheese melts.
- Serve – Slice into wedges and serve warm with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Prepare the Chicken
Shred your cooked chicken breast into small pieces.
In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken with buffalo sauce until well coated. Add cream cheese if you want a creamier texture.
Assemble the Quesadillas
Place one tortilla on a flat surface.
Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar and mozzarella on one half.
Add a scoop of buffalo chicken mixture, then top with sliced green onions.
Sprinkle more cheese on top, then fold the tortilla in half.
FAQs
1. Can I use rotisserie chicken for buffalo chicken quesadillas?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Just shred the meat, toss it with buffalo sauce, and follow the same steps.
2. What’s the best cheese to use in buffalo chicken quesadillas?
Cheddar and mozzarella are classic, but you can also use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even crumbled blue cheese for a bold flavor.
3. How do I keep quesadillas crispy?
Make sure the skillet is preheated, use a little butter or oil, and avoid overfilling with sauce. Too much liquid can make tortillas soggy.
4. Can I bake quesadillas instead of frying them in a skillet?
Absolutely! Arrange them on a baking sheet, brush lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Are buffalo chicken quesadillas spicy?
That depends on the buffalo sauce you use. Mild sauces keep it family-friendly, while hot sauces turn up the heat.
6. Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the buffalo chicken mixture up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble and cook the quesadillas just before serving.
7. What dipping sauces go best with buffalo chicken quesadillas?
Ranch dressing and blue cheese dressing are traditional favorites, but you can also try sour cream, garlic aioli, or avocado ranch.
Conclusion
Buffalo chicken quesadillas are the ultimate combination of spicy, cheesy, and crispy goodness that can instantly elevate your mealtime. They’re quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and satisfying enough to please both family and friends. Whether you’re whipping them up for a casual dinner, a game-day snack, or meal prepping for the week, these quesadillas never disappoint. Grab your tortillas, some buffalo sauce, and plenty of cheese—you’ll be amazed at how easy and delicious this recipe is.
