Ingredients
- 2 cups chopped rotisserie chicken
- 1 (4-ounce) can chopped Hatch chiles
- 6 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, grated (about 1 1/2 cups)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 6 (8 1/2-inch) flour tortillas
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped rotisserie chicken, Hatch chiles, and grated cheese. Stir until evenly combined. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 2: Prep the Tortillas
Take the room-temperature butter and spread a thin, even layer on one side of each tortilla. This will help achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior when cooking. Place the tortillas, butter side down, on a clean work surface.
Step 3: Assemble the Quesadillas
Divide the chicken-cheese mixture evenly among the six tortillas, spreading it on one half of each tortilla. Fold the tortillas in half, pressing lightly to help the filling stay in place.
Step 4: Cook the Quesadillas
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the quesadillas in batches, placing them in the skillet without overcrowding.
- Let them cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, flipping once, until both sides are golden brown and crispy. The cheese should be fully melted.
- Remove from the pan and let them rest for about 1 minute before cutting.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to slice each quesadilla into triangles. Serve immediately while the cheese is warm and gooey.
Notes
How to Get Crispy Quesadillas
- Use the right heat: Cooking on medium heat ensures that the tortillas crisp up without burning. High heat can cause them to brown too quickly while the cheese remains unmelted.
- Butter evenly: Spreading butter on the outside of the tortilla helps with crispiness and adds flavor. However, don’t overdo it—too much butter can make them greasy.
How to Prevent a Messy Quesadilla
- Avoid overfilling: Too much filling can cause the quesadilla to break apart when flipping. Stick to a moderate amount to keep them intact.
- Press gently when folding: This helps keep the filling in place without forcing ingredients out of the sides.
How to Tell if the Chicken is Heated Through
Since rotisserie chicken is already cooked, the main goal is to warm it up. If the cheese is fully melted and the tortillas are golden brown, the chicken should be warm enough. If you’re unsure, cut a piece in half and check.
What to Do if the Quesadilla Browns Too Quickly
If the outside is getting too dark before the cheese melts, lower the heat and cook for a bit longer. This ensures an even melt without burning the tortilla.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes