“Meal Prep Series: Authentic Mexican Chicken Quesadilla Recipe” was written by Priyanka Prakash & Gabi Abreu, BSc and edited/reviewed by Jackie Silver, MHSc, RD.
Medical Disclaimer: The information in this article is meant for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be personalized medical or nutrition advice. For a plan tailored to your needs, please consult with a Registered Dietitian or qualified healthcare professional.
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Last updated: May 6, 2024
Authentic Mexican Chicken Quesadilla Recipe
Trying to honor your cultural dishes while keeping up with a busy schedule can be tough! Between work, school stress, and wanting to stick to your culinary roots, finding time and energy to cook can be challenging — we get it!
If this sounds like you, then meal prepping might help! Embracing the diversity of flavors and traditions allows us to create a more inclusive food environment for everyone to enjoy. Carving out time to cook your favorite cultural dishes can also evoke a sense of comfort, nostalgia, and connectedness within your community.
Finding time for this can seem overwhelming at first, but we’re here to make it as simple as possible with our meal prep series. We’ll explore delicious and culturally diverse recipes that are perfect for meal prepping without having to spend hours in the kitchen. We’ll also delve into why meal prepping is particularly beneficial for the neurodivergent community, and tips for catering recipes to individual preferences.
Today, we kick off the series by exploring Mexican cuisine! Mexican food is known for its strong flavors and colorful ingredients so we’ll be sharing a beloved classic: Authentic Mexican Chicken Quesadillas. This versatile recipe is perfect for picky eaters or those with sensory sensitivities as it is easily customizable.
Catering to Neurodiversity with Simple, Flavorful Recipes
Meal prepping is not only about convenience but also about creating meals that cater to various dietary needs and preferences, especially within the neurodivergent community.
For individuals who may be selective eaters, customizable options like this authentic Mexican chicken quesadilla recipe are a game-changer. You can easily swap out chicken for other protein favorites like beef, shrimp, or even beans or tofu for a vegetarian option. Read through our Meal Prep Guide for Picky Eaters for more tips!
Additionally, serving quesadillas with different textured dips, from smooth guacamole to creamy sour cream, provides sensory variety and allows individuals to tailor their meal to their liking. This versatility makes quesadillas not only delicious but also inclusive for everyone’s tastes and preferences. To learn more about sensory sensitivities, check out this blog post!
Authentic Mexican Chicken Quesadilla Recipe – Tips for Meal Prep and Storage
For efficient meal prep and convenient storage, consider these helpful tips for your authentic Mexican chicken quesadilla recipe.
- Batch Cook Proteins
Starting with batch cooking your chicken in advance is a game-changer. By preparing a large quantity of chicken all at once, you’ll save valuable time during the busy week ahead. Plus, having pre-cooked chicken on hand makes it easy to whip up quesadillas or other meals whenever hunger strikes.
- Chop Veggies in Advance or Opt for Pre-Chopped or Frozen Veggies
Once your chicken is cooked to perfection, it’s time to assemble your quesadillas. Whether you prefer classic chicken and cheese or want to get creative with additional toppings like bell peppers, onions, or even pineapple, the options are endless. Feel free to experiment and tailor the recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
- Store in an Airtight Container
After you’ve crafted your quesadillas, it’s essential to store them properly to maintain their freshness. Placing them in an airtight container is key to preserving their flavor and texture. This step not only prevents them from drying out but also ensures that they stay delicious for days to come. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or even freeze them!
- Reheat in the Microwave or Oven
With your quesadillas safely stored away, you’re now equipped with convenient meal options for the days ahead. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch to take to work or a satisfying dinner after a long day, having pre-made quesadillas on hand is a lifesaver. And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to reheat. If you’re short on time, popping them in the microwave for a few seconds will do the trick. Alternatively, if you prefer a crispy texture, reheating them in the oven is the way to go. Either way, you’ll be treated to a warm and flavorful meal in no time.
In addition to their convenience and versatility, quesadillas are also a great option for meal prep because they lend themselves well to customization. Whether you’re catering to different dietary preferences or simply want to switch things up, there are endless ways to customize your quesadillas to suit your tastes.
So, whether you’re a fan of classic chicken and cheese or want to get adventurous with your toppings, quesadillas are a delicious and convenient option for meal prep. With a little planning and preparation, you can enjoy flavorful homemade quesadillas anytime, anywhere.
My Top Five Meal Prep Storage Recommendations for this Authentic Mexican Chicken Quesadilla Recipe
- Glass Meal Prep Containers
- Reusable Freezer Bags
- Souper Cubes
- Overnight Oat Jars
- Produce Storage Containers
Authentic Mexican Chicken Quesadilla Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 10-inch Flour tortillas
- 1 lb Cooked shredded chicken
- 2 ½ cups Shredded cheese
- 1 cup Mild salsa
- Guacamole or sour cream (Optional)
Instructions
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Place one tortilla in the skillet.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the tortilla.
- Add a layer of cooked shredded chicken on top of the cheese.
- Spoon salsa over the chicken.
- If desired, add a dollop of guacamole or sour cream.
- Top with another tortilla.
- Cook until the bottom tortilla is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted (about 3-4 minutes).
- Carefully flip the quesadilla and cook until the other side is golden and crispy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Remove from the skillet and let it cool slightly before slicing into wedges.
Video
Notes
- Serve hot with additional salsa, guacamole, or sour cream on the side for dipping.
- Pair with a side salad or fresh fruit for a complete meal.
- For a vegan version: Use non dairy cheese and omit the chicken or use beans, tofu, or a plant-based meat substitute.
- For a vegetarian version: Instead of chicken, use beans, tofu, or a plant-based meat substitute.
- Additions: Feel free to use whole wheat tortillas for extra fiber or gluten-free tortillas if you are gluten-free.
Conclusion
This Authentic Mexican Chicken Quesadilla Recipe stands out as a wonderfully simple and versatile option for meal prep, particularly catering to the diverse preferences of the neurodivergent community. Their familiar flavors and customizable nature make them an inviting choice for even the pickiest of eaters. We encourage you to give this recipe a try and stay tuned for more meal prep-friendly dishes in our series, designed to make cooking accessible and enjoyable for everyone!
What are your favorite toppings to add to your quesadillas? Which dips do you like to serve alongside them? Share your go-to combinations with us in the comments below!
Related Articles:
- Meal Prep for Picky Eaters: A Parents’ Guide
- Autism Safe Foods: Foods for Sensory Sensitivity
- Exploring the Link Between ADHD and Picky Eating
- 13 Healthy Smoothies for Picky Eaters
Related Recipes:
- Greek inspired orzo pesto salad
- Creamy Coconut Milk, Pumpkin and Mushroom Risotto Recipe
- Deconstructed high protein lasagna
- Feta spinach lentil salad
About Priyanka
Priyanka Prakash is currently pursuing her second year in nutrition studies, having previously obtained a degree in computer science engineering. After working as an engineer for several years, she decided to shift her career to focus on her true passion—nutrition. Priyanka is enthusiastic about cooking and baking, often experimenting with new recipes that combine her technical expertise with her culinary interests.
About Gabi
Gabi Abreu, BSc, is a Nutrition & Dietetics graduate from Toronto Metropolitan University and the Blog & Social Media Manager at Jackie Silver Nutrition. She is also the founder of the Working Woman’s Health Collection. WWHC was created with the purpose of inspiring women to achieve a healthy relationship with food, while taking into consideration the busy lifestyles that we live today. Beyond her professional pursuits, she loves experimenting with new recipes, trying new workout classes, and indulging her love for adventure through travel!
About Jackie
Jackie is a Registered Dietitian whose mission is to empower and support the neurodivergent and physically disabled communities through nutrition. Jackie runs a virtual private practice, providing services in Ontario and New York, as well as a blog which has simple recipes and health information tailored to these communities. She loves cooking, exercising, traveling, journaling, and spending time with family and friends.