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These mini chicken quesadillas transform leftover rotisserie chicken into a crowd-pleasing, snack-sized treat that melts together refried beans, cheese, and salsa for a satisfying bite. Whether for game day, a light lunch, or casual entertaining, they come together quickly and offer a perfect blend of flavors and textures.
I made these during a busy weekend family gathering, and everyone kept reaching for more. It quickly became my go-to recipe anytime I have leftover chicken around.
Ingredients
- Flour tortillas: soft and flexible for easy folding choose medium size for perfect mini quesadillas
- Refried beans: add creaminess and help hold the filling together go for canned for convenience or homemade for extra flavor
- Leftover rotisserie chicken: shredded it provides tender flavorful protein
- Shredded cheese: a melty cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack works best pick a good quality cheese for gooey texture
- Salsa: adds a nice kick and moisture to the filling fresh or jarred both work fine
- Optional cooking oil: for crisping the quesadillas in the pan use a neutral oil or butter for flavor
Instructions
- Sauté the Filling:
- Warm the refried beans gently in a skillet over medium heat until smooth and heated through. Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken and salsa until evenly combined. This step ensures the filling is warm and flavorful before assembling.
- Assemble the Quesadillas:
- Lay out the tortillas on a flat surface. Spread a spoonful of the warm bean and chicken mixture on half of each tortilla. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the filling. Fold the tortilla over to enclose the filling and form a half moon shape.
- Cook Until Golden and Melty:
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly oil the surface. Carefully place the folded quesadillas in the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Flip carefully to brown both sides until cheese is completely melted and the tortillas are golden and crispy.
- Serve Warm:
- Remove the quesadillas from the pan and let them cool slightly before cutting into smaller snack-sized wedges if desired. Serve with guacamole, sour cream, or pico de gallo for added freshness. They also taste great on their own.
I love the combination of refried beans and shredded chicken because they hold together perfectly when melted with cheese. This recipe reminds me of a lively family game night where everyone gathered around the kitchen island, excitedly sharing these warm cheesy bites. It truly brings people together.
Storage Tips
Store cooled quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on a skillet or in a toaster oven to retain crispiness rather than microwaving which can make the tortilla soggy.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have refried beans mashed black beans or cooked pinto beans work well as alternatives. For a dairy-free version use vegan cheese or omit cheese and add extra salsa for moisture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with classic Mexican sides such as guacamole fresh salsa and sour cream to add layers of flavor. A simple green salad or Mexican rice can round out the meal.
These mini quesadillas are quick crowd-pleasing and perfect for using up leftovers. Serve them warm with your favorite dips for maximum enjoyment.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What kind of chicken works best for these quesadillas?
Leftover rotisserie chicken is ideal as it’s tender and flavorful, but cooked shredded chicken or grilled chicken also works well.
- → Can I make these quesadillas vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the chicken and add extra beans or sautéed vegetables for a hearty filling.
- → What cheese is recommended for melting?
Mild cheeses like Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a Mexican blend melt beautifully and complement the filling flavors.
- → How do I prevent the quesadillas from getting soggy?
Cook on medium heat until tortillas are golden and crispy to keep them from becoming soggy.
- → What sides pair well with these snack-size quesadillas?
Guacamole, pico de gallo, and sour cream enhance the flavors and add refreshing contrast.