Chicken Quesadilla Rolls
Crispy, cheesy chicken quesadilla rolls are the perfect party appetizer or fun weeknight dinner. Packed with seasoned chicken and melted cheese, these pinwheels are pan-fried until golden and served with your favorite dips. A crowd-pleaser that's ready in 30 minutes!
For 4 servings
4 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Filling
- b.In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, 1.5 cups of the Mexican cheese blend, softened cream cheese, diced red bell pepper, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro.
- c.Add the chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- d.Stir with a spatula until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is creamy.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Assemble the Rolls
- b.Lightly warm the tortillas in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a dry skillet to make them soft and pliable.
- c.Lay one tortilla flat and spread approximately one-quarter of the chicken mixture evenly over the surface, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
- d.Sprinkle a small amount of the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese over the filling.
- e.Roll the tortilla up as tightly as you can to form a compact log.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Pan-Fry the Rolls
- b.Heat the vegetable oil in a large, non-stick skillet over medium heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.
- c.Carefully place two rolls in the skillet, seam-side down. Cooking the seam side first is crucial to seal the roll.
- d.Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning the rolls every 1-2 minutes, until all sides are golden brown, crispy, and the cheese inside is fully melted.
- e.Remove the cooked rolls and place them on a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat the process with the remaining two rolls.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Slice and Serve
- b.Let the cooked rolls rest on a cutting board for 2-3 minutes. This allows them to set and makes slicing easier.
- c.Using a sharp serrated knife, slice each roll into 1-inch thick pinwheels.
- d.Arrange the quesadilla rolls on a platter and serve immediately with your favorite dips like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use a rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful shortcut.
- 2Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- 3Don't overfill the tortillas, as the filling can ooze out during cooking and make a mess.
- 4Cook in batches and avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the rolls get crispy on all sides.
- 5For the cleanest cuts, use a serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion rather than pressing down hard.
- 6Reheat leftovers in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-4 minutes to restore their original crispiness.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add 1-2 finely diced jalapeños or a 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the filling for extra heat.
Vegetarian DelightVegetarian Delight
Replace the chicken with 1 cup of black beans (rinsed and drained) and 1 cup of corn kernels.
Cheesy UpgradeCheesy Upgrade
Use a different cheese blend, such as Monterey Jack, sharp cheddar, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Baked Not FriedBaked Not Fried
For a lighter version, place the assembled rolls on a baking sheet, brush lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Protein Powerhouse
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is crucial for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining a healthy metabolism.
Bone Health Support
The combination of cream cheese and Mexican cheese blend provides a good amount of calcium, an essential mineral for developing and maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Energy Boost
The carbohydrates from the flour tortillas provide a quick and accessible source of energy to fuel your body and brain.
Frequently asked questions
A serving of 5 pieces contains approximately 280-350 calories, depending on the specific type of cheese, tortillas, and amount of oil used.