Air-Fried Chicken Quesadillas: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Chicken quesadillas are a tasty, quick and easy meal to make in an air fryer. They are versatile, customisable, and can be made with a variety of ingredients. You can add in salsa or pico de gallo, or use chipotle sauce with roasted peppers and sweet corn for a Southwestern flair. You can even make a Mediterranean-style quesadilla with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and feta cheese.

To make chicken quesadillas in an air fryer, you will need tortillas, cheese, cooked chicken, and any other desired ingredients such as guacamole, salsa, or vegetables. You can use a variety of cheeses, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Oaxaca cheese. For the chicken, you can use cooked, shredded chicken, or rotisserie chicken.

The basic method involves assembling the quesadilla by layering the ingredients between two tortillas, then cooking it in the air fryer for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy. Some recipes recommend pre-cooking the quesadilla in the microwave to prevent it from falling apart in the air fryer, while others suggest using toothpicks or a rack to hold the quesadilla together during cooking.

Chicken quesadillas in the air fryer are a convenient, tasty, and versatile meal that can be customised to your liking.

Choosing the right cheese

The best cheeses for quesadillas are those that melt well and ooze out of the tortilla. Monterey Jack is a popular choice, and it pairs well with a sharp cheddar cheese. You could also use Oaxaca or Chihuahua cheese, which are Mexican melting cheeses that will give an authentic flavour. Mozzarella is another cheese that melts beautifully and is a good option for those who prefer a milder flavour.

If you are making a more indulgent quesadilla, you could add slices of American cheese, which will give you that extra gooey texture. For a healthier option, choose a low-fat melting cheese.

For a Mediterranean-style quesadilla, feta cheese is a good choice, adding a salty, tangy flavour.

Using the right cooking spray

You can use an oil spray, such as olive oil or another vegetable oil of your choice. Lightly coat the air fryer basket with the oil spray before placing your quesadilla inside. You should also spray the top of the quesadilla with oil to ensure it cooks evenly on both sides. If you don't have an oil spray, you can brush the basket and quesadilla with oil instead.

Another option is to use a cooking spray such as butter or mayonnaise. You can spread or brush these on the basket and quesadilla, or you can butter or mayonnaise the tortillas before assembling your quesadilla.

If you don't have any cooking spray, you can also use parchment paper to line the bottom of the air fryer basket. This will make clean-up easier if your cheese bubbles over.

How to prepare the tortillas

Preparing the tortillas is a crucial step in making chicken quesadillas in an air fryer. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

Firstly, gather your ingredients. You will need tortillas, of course, and the type you use is up to your preference. You can use flour tortillas, corn tortillas, or gluten-free options. Medium or large-sized tortillas are ideal, and you will need two tortillas for each quesadilla.

Before assembling the quesadilla, it is recommended to soften the tortillas slightly. You can do this by microwaving them for about 20 seconds. This step will make the tortillas more pliable and less likely to tear when you fold them.

Now it's time to assemble the quesadilla. Place one tortilla on a flat surface or directly into your air fryer basket if it has enough space. Spread your chosen fillings on half of the tortilla, ensuring they are evenly distributed. You can use a variety of fillings, such as cooked shredded chicken, cheese, salsa, beans, vegetables, or any other ingredients of your choice.

Once you have added your fillings, it's time to top it with another tortilla. Place the second tortilla directly on top of the fillings, creating a sandwich-like structure. If you are concerned about the tortillas staying closed during cooking, you can use toothpicks or a metal rack to secure them. Additionally, brushing the tortillas with oil or spraying them with cooking spray can help them crisp up and prevent burning.

Finally, place the assembled quesadilla into your preheated air fryer. The cooking time and temperature may vary depending on your air fryer and desired crispness, but generally, cooking at temperatures between 325°F to 370°F for 6 to 10 minutes should be sufficient. Don't forget to flip the quesadilla halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking and browning on both sides.

Once the cooking time is complete, remove the quesadilla from the air fryer and let it cool slightly before serving. Cut it into wedges and serve with your favourite toppings and sauces, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or cheese sauce.

How to prevent the quesadillas from falling apart

How to Prevent Quesadillas from Falling Apart

Quesadillas are a delicious, easy-to-make meal, but they can be tricky to get right. Here are some tips to prevent your quesadillas from falling apart:

Use the Right Tortillas

Using the correct type of tortilla is essential to prevent your quesadillas from falling apart. Corn tortillas are a great gluten-free option, but they can be more delicate than flour tortillas. Flour tortillas are typically more durable and less likely to break or fall apart. You can also look for thicker tortillas, which will provide more structure to your quesadillas.

Don't Overfill

Overfilling your quesadillas can lead to a messy situation. Aim for a generous but not excessive amount of filling. This will ensure that the tortilla can still be folded and sealed properly. A good rule of thumb is to leave about a 1/2-inch gap between the filling and the edge of the tortilla.

Cheese as Glue

Cheese is a crucial ingredient in quesadillas, not just for flavour but also for structure. The melted cheese acts as a glue that holds the filling together and helps to seal the tortilla. Use a cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella. Place the cheese on both sides of the tortilla, covering the area where the filling will go. This will help to create a strong seal and prevent leakage.

Secure with a Toothpick

If you're worried about the tortilla unfolding during cooking, you can secure it with a toothpick. Simply insert a toothpick through the folded edge of the tortilla. Make sure to remove the toothpick before serving, as it will be hot.

Cook at the Right Temperature

Cooking your quesadillas at the right temperature is essential to prevent them from falling apart. Preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature, usually around 350-370°F. Cooking at too high of a temperature can cause the outside to burn while the inside is still cold, leading to uneven cooking and a higher chance of falling apart.

Flip Carefully

Flipping your quesadilla at the right time and with the right technique is crucial. Wait until the cheese has started to melt and the filling is heated through. Use a large spatula to gently lift the quesadilla, then quickly but gently flip it over. This will take some practice, so don't be discouraged if you don't get it perfect on your first try!

How to store leftovers

To store your chicken quesadilla leftovers, wrap them in aluminium foil or place them in an airtight container. You can also keep them in the baking dish, but make sure to cover the dish before putting it in the fridge. Consume leftovers within three to four days.

If you want to freeze your leftovers, place the assembled quesadillas in a freezer-safe foil dish and cover it. When you're ready to eat them, take them out to thaw, and then bake as per the recipe instructions. Properly stored chicken quesadillas can be kept in the freezer for up to four months.

Frequently asked questions