Indulge in a delightful fusion of flavors with these chicken spinach quesadillas. Perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, this gluten-free recipe combines tender shredded chicken, fresh spinach, and melted cheese between crispy tortillas. It's a nutritious and delicious meal that everyone will love.
When preparing this recipe, make sure to use gluten-free tortillas, which can be found in the gluten-free section of most supermarkets. Fresh spinach is typically available in the produce section, and you can choose between cheddar or mozzarella cheese based on your preference. Shredded cooked chicken can be prepared at home or purchased pre-cooked for convenience.

Ingredients For Chicken Spinach Quesadillas Recipe
Cooked chicken: Shredded chicken adds a hearty protein element to the quesadillas. You can use leftover chicken or buy pre-cooked chicken for convenience.
Fresh spinach: Chopped spinach provides a fresh, nutritious boost to the quesadillas. It's rich in vitamins and minerals.
Shredded cheese: Choose between cheddar or mozzarella cheese to add a creamy, melted texture and rich flavor to the quesadillas.
Gluten-free tortillas: These tortillas are essential for keeping the recipe gluten-free. They can be found in the gluten-free section of most supermarkets.
Olive oil: Used to cook the quesadillas, olive oil helps achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior while adding a subtle flavor.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When preparing shredded chicken for this recipe, consider using a rotisserie chicken for added flavor and convenience. If you prefer to cook your own, poaching the chicken in broth with aromatics like garlic and bay leaves can infuse it with extra taste. For the spinach, make sure to thoroughly wash and dry it to avoid excess moisture, which can make the quesadillas soggy. Using a cast-iron skillet can help achieve a perfectly crispy tortilla, as it retains and distributes heat evenly.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
Cooked chicken - Substitute with cooked turkey: Turkey has a similar texture and flavor profile to chicken, making it a great alternative.
Fresh spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale provides a similar nutritional profile and texture when chopped and cooked.
Shredded cheese - Substitute with dairy-free shredded cheese: For those who are lactose intolerant or vegan, dairy-free cheese offers a similar melt and flavor.
Gluten-free tortillas - Substitute with corn tortillas: Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free and provide a similar texture and taste.
Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for cooking.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish
How to Store or Freeze This Dish
- Allow the quesadillas to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
- Wrap each quesadilla individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps maintain their shape and prevents them from sticking together.
- Place the wrapped quesadillas in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Label with the date for easy tracking.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer.
- To freeze, lay the wrapped quesadillas flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.
- Once frozen, transfer the quesadillas to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- When ready to eat, reheat refrigerated quesadillas in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy. Alternatively, use a microwave for a quicker option, but note that they may not be as crispy.
- For frozen quesadillas, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. If in a hurry, you can reheat them directly from frozen in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid to ensure even heating.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover quesadillas on a baking sheet and cover them with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy.
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the quesadillas in the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are heated through and crispy.
Use a microwave if you're in a hurry. Place the quesadillas on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out. Microwave on high for about 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the quesadillas are heated through. Note that this method may not keep the tortillas as crispy as the other methods.
For an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the quesadillas in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy.
Best Tools for Making This Recipe
Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for cooking the quesadillas over medium heat.
Spatula: A tool for flipping the quesadillas to ensure even cooking on both sides.
Knife: Used for chopping the fresh spinach and cutting the quesadillas into wedges.
Cutting board: A surface for safely chopping the spinach and any other ingredients.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the cooked chicken and shredded cheese accurately.
Tongs: Handy for placing and removing the tortillas from the skillet without burning yourself.
Mixing bowl: Optional, for mixing the shredded chicken and chopped spinach together before adding them to the quesadilla.
Plate: For serving the warm quesadilla wedges.
How to Save Time on Making This Dish
Prepare the filling in advance: Cook and shred the chicken ahead of time. Store it in the fridge to save time when assembling the quesadillas.
Use pre-washed spinach: Opt for pre-washed and pre-chopped spinach to cut down on prep time.
Preheat the skillet: Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the tortillas to speed up the cooking process.
Shred cheese in bulk: Shred a large batch of cheese and store it in the fridge for quick use in multiple recipes.
Assemble all ingredients: Lay out all your ingredients before you start cooking to streamline the process.

Chicken Spinach Quesadillas
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups Cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups Fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 4 pieces Gluten-free tortillas
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
Instructions
- 1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- 2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese evenly over it.
- 3. Add the shredded chicken and chopped spinach on top of the cheese.
- 4. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the chicken and spinach, then top with another tortilla.
- 5. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- 6. Remove from the skillet and cut into wedges. Serve warm.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts for This Recipe
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