Why Make This Recipe
High-Protein Chicken Ranch Quesadilla is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a nutritious and delicious meal. This recipe offers high protein content thanks to the chicken and Greek yogurt, making it ideal for those who want to support muscle growth or maintain a healthy lifestyle. The creamy ranch flavor combined with crispy tortillas creates a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by everyone, whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just someone who enjoys a good quesadilla.
Not only is it packed with protein, but this dish is also easy to prepare. You can make it quickly, which is perfect for weeknight dinners or weekday lunches. With its low-carb tortilla base, it is a great option for anyone following a low-carb diet, ensuring you can enjoy a tasty meal without all the extra carbs. Plus, you can customize the recipe to suit your taste by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the seasoning.
How to Make High-Protein Chicken Ranch Quesadilla
Creating a delicious High-Protein Chicken Ranch Quesadilla is a straightforward process that requires minimal ingredients and effort. Here is how to prepare it, step by step.
Ingredients
- 1 low-carb tortilla
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 wedges Laughing Cow cheese
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- Ranch seasoning to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil for grilling
Directions
Heat the Skillet: Begin by heating a non-stick skillet over medium heat. This is an essential step because a properly heated skillet helps ensure your quesadilla cooks evenly. Once your skillet is hot, lightly coat it with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil. This will prevent sticking and help achieve a crispy texture.
Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt, the shredded chicken, and ranch seasoning to taste. The Greek yogurt serves as a fantastic base to bind the filling together while adding creaminess. Stir the mixture well until it is completely combined. Adjust the ranch seasoning according to your preference, depending on how strong you want the flavor to be.
Spread the Mixture: Take your low-carb tortilla and spread the chicken and Greek yogurt mixture evenly over half of the tortilla. Make sure to leave the other half of the tortilla empty; this will make it easier to fold and cook.
Add Cheese: Take the two wedges of Laughing Cow cheese and place them on top of the filling. These cheese wedges melt beautifully and add a nice, creamy texture to the quesadilla, enhancing the overall flavor.
Fold the Tortilla: Carefully fold the tortilla in half, covering the filling. Make sure the edges are aligned to prevent any filling from spilling out while cooking. A gentle press on the folded tortilla will help seal it together.
Cook the Quesadilla: Place the folded quesadilla into the hot skillet. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes on one side until it turns golden brown and crispy. Afterward, flip the quesadilla carefully using a spatula. Cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes. The quesadilla is done when both sides are golden brown and crispy.
Serve: Once cooked, remove the quesadilla from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut it into wedges. Serve warm with additional ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce if desired.
How to Serve High-Protein Chicken Ranch Quesadilla
Serving your High-Protein Chicken Ranch Quesadilla can be as simple or creative as you’d like. Consider these serving ideas:
- Dipping Sauces: Offer some ranch dressing, salsa, or guacamole on the side for dipping. These sauces complement the quesadilla’s flavor nicely.
- Salad Side: Pair your quesadilla with a fresh salad. A simple green salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette works well.
- Garnish: Top with fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color and an extra flavor boost.
These options can elevate the meal, making it more appealing and satisfying.
How to Store High-Protein Chicken Ranch Quesadilla
If you have leftovers or want to prepare your quesadillas in advance, here’s how to store them effectively:
- Cooling: Let the quesadillas cool completely before storing them to avoid condensation inside the storage container.
- Refrigeration: Place the quesadilla in an airtight container. You can also wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the quesadilla. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last in the freezer for about 2-3 months.
When you are ready to enjoy your stored quesadilla, you can reheat it in a skillet or in the oven until it’s heated through and crispy again.
Tips to Make High-Protein Chicken Ranch Quesadilla
- Cook Chicken in Advance: Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time. It makes preparation quicker and easier.
- Customize Filling: Feel free to add other ingredients like veggies, such as bell peppers or spinach, to up the nutritional content.
- Experiment with Tortillas: Try different types of tortillas like spinach or whole wheat for variety. You can also use regular tortillas if you’re not restricted to low-carb options.
- Ensure Proper Cooking Temperature: Cooking at medium heat ensures the quesadilla gets crispy without burning.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always try to use fresh chicken and Greek yogurt for the best flavor and texture.
Variation
While the High-Protein Chicken Ranch Quesadilla is delicious as is, consider experimenting with these variations:
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with black beans and add diced tomatoes and corn. This makes a hearty vegetarian quesadilla.
- Different Cheese: Use a different type of cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile, while still enjoying that creamy texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of tortilla?
Yes! While this recipe uses low-carb tortillas, you can use regular tortillas, whole wheat, or even gluten-free varieties based on your dietary preferences.
2. How do I know when the quesadilla is done cooking?
The quesadilla is ready when both sides are golden brown, and the cheese has melted inside. You can also gently press down on it to see if it feels firm.
3. Can I make this quesadilla ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture in advance and assemble the quesadilla just before cooking. You can also store the cooked quesadilla in the fridge or freezer as mentioned earlier.
4. What can I serve with a quesadilla?
Delicious sides include a fresh salad, assorted dipping sauces like ranch or salsa, or even a side of vegetables.
5. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! The High-Protein Chicken Ranch Quesadilla can be made in bulk and stored for easy meals during the week. Just keep the storage tips in mind for best results.
By incorporating these ideas and tips, you can enjoy a versatile and nutritious meal that satisfies hunger and keeps you on track with your health goals. Make sure to try this recipe out for a quick weekday meal or a weekend treat!
Print
High-Protein Chicken Ranch Quesadilla
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Low-Carb
Description
A delicious high-protein quesadilla with creamy ranch flavor and a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients
- 1 low-carb tortilla
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 wedges Laughing Cow cheese
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- Ranch seasoning to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil for grilling
Instructions
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and coat with cooking spray or olive oil.
- In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, shredded chicken, and ranch seasoning until well combined.
- Spread the chicken mixture over half of the tortilla, leaving the other half empty.
- Place Laughing Cow cheese on top of the filling.
- Fold the tortilla in half, aligning the edges.
- Cook the quesadilla in the skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from skillet, cut into wedges, and serve warm with dipping sauces if desired.
Notes
Let the quesadilla cool completely before storing. Can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for 2-3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 quesadilla
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: quesadilla, high-protein, chicken, ranch, low-carb, easy meal