INGREDIENTS
- 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 yellow onion, sliced
- 1/2 tsp. chili powder
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 3 c. shredded Monterey Jack
- 3 c. shredded cheddar
- 4 c. shredded chicken
- 1 avocado, thinly sliced
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced
- Sour cream, for serving
DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 400º and with parchment paper, line 2 baking sheets.
In a skillet over medium-high temp, heat oil. Add onion and pepper and season with pepper, salt, and chili powder. Heat until it gets soft, five minutes. Transfer to a plate.
Take a bowl and stir together cheeses. Into the center of both prepared baking sheets, add 1 1/2 cups of cheese mixture. Spread into an even layer and make a circle shape the size of a flour tortilla.
Bake cheeses until it gets melty and a bit golden around the edge, eight to ten minutes. Add shredded chicken, onion-pepper mixture, and avocado slices to one half of each. Let cool slightly, then use a spatula and the parchment paper to gently lift and over the side with the fillings, fold 1 side of the cheese “tortilla”. Put in oven to heat, three to four mins more. To make two more quesadillas, repeat.
Into quarters cut each quesadilla. Garnish with sour cream and green onion before serving.
NUTRITIONAL INFO
1 Quesadilla = 2 Servings
Each Serving (Excluding Sauces)
599 Calories | 40.5 g Fat | 6.1 g Carbs | 0.7 g Fiber | 52.7 g Protein
5.4 g Net Carbs
KETO CHICKEN QUESADILLA
In the world of comfort foods, the quesadilla holds a special place. Warm, cheesy, and satisfyingly crispy, it’s a dish that pleases the palate and warms the soul. However, traditional quesadillas, made with flour tortillas, are not typically keto-friendly. Enter the Keto Chicken Quesadilla – a delicious and innovative take on this classic Mexican dish, designed to fit seamlessly into a low-carb, high-fat diet. By using keto-friendly tortillas and wholesome ingredients, you can enjoy all the flavors and textures you love without straying from your dietary goals.
The Keto Chicken Quesadilla is a perfect example of how simple ingredient swaps can transform a high-carb dish into a low-carb delight. Traditional flour tortillas are replaced with low-carb tortillas or even cheese-based shells, drastically reducing the carbohydrate content. Inside, tender chicken, melted cheese, and a variety of flavorful fillings create a hearty and satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a tasty dinner, or even a snack, this keto-friendly quesadilla fits the bill.
One of the standout features of the Keto Chicken Quesadilla is its rich nutritional profile. Chicken provides a high-quality source of protein, essential for muscle maintenance and overall health, while the cheese adds a dose of healthy fats that help keep you full and energized. Depending on your preferences, you can add low-carb vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or avocado, enhancing the nutritional value even further. These ingredients not only support your ketogenic lifestyle but also contribute to a well-rounded, balanced diet.
The versatility of the Keto Chicken Quesadilla is another reason it’s a must-try. The base recipe is straightforward, but it’s easily customizable to suit your taste buds and dietary needs. You can spice things up with jalapeños, add a smoky flavor with grilled chicken, or keep it simple with just cheese and chicken. For those who enjoy a little variety, the quesadilla can be served with keto-friendly sides and toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, and salsa, making each meal a new and exciting experience.
Convenience is a significant factor in the appeal of the Keto Chicken Quesadilla. It’s a quick and easy dish that doesn’t require extensive cooking skills or time. With pre-cooked chicken and a few other ingredients, you can have a delicious, low-carb meal ready in minutes. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights, meal prep, or whenever you need a fast and satisfying keto-friendly dish. Plus, the quesadillas can be made ahead of time and reheated, maintaining their deliciousness and texture.
Lastly, the Keto Chicken Quesadilla embodies the idea that healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland or restrictive. By incorporating flavorful, high-quality ingredients and focusing on balance and satisfaction, this dish proves that you can enjoy indulgent meals while staying true to your dietary goals. It’s a celebration of how creative and enjoyable a ketogenic diet can be, offering a guilt-free way to savor a beloved comfort food.
In conclusion, the Keto Chicken Quesadilla is a delightful fusion of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Its low-carb ingredients and high-protein content make it a perfect fit for anyone following a ketogenic diet, while its versatility and ease of preparation ensure it’s a hit with even the busiest of cooks. Whether you’re a keto veteran or just exploring low-carb options, this quesadilla is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the delicious taste and the satisfaction of a meal that aligns with your health goals.