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This Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadilla recipe is your next go-to for a quick, satisfying meal that combines smoky bacon with creamy ranch dressing and melty cheese. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a snack when you want something comforting but easy to pull together.
I first made this when I had leftover rotisserie chicken and some bacon in the fridge. It quickly became a favorite in my house because everyone loved how all the flavors came together so effortlessly.
Ingredients
- Four large flour tortillas: choose fresh ones for easier folding and crisping
- One and a half cups shredded cheddar cheese: sharp cheddar adds a nice tanginess
- One cup chopped rotisserie chicken: rotisserie gives great flavor and keeps the chicken juicy
- Six pieces crispy cooked bacon: adds smokiness and crunch, buy thick-cut if possible
- Two scallions finely diced: adds a fresh, mild onion flavor that lifts the dish
- Four tablespoons ranch dressing plus extra for serving: creamy with herbs to tie everything together
- Two tablespoons oil or butter: olive oil works well for flavor or vegetable oil for a neutral option
- A pinch of salt: to enhance all the flavors
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Spoon on the fillings:
- Place one tortilla flat on a cutting board. Sprinkle half a cup of shredded cheddar evenly over it. Then scatter half the chopped chicken, half the crispy bacon, and half the diced scallions on top. Drizzle around two tablespoons of ranch dressing over everything. Add another half cup of cheddar cheese on top, then place a second tortilla over the filling.
- Heat the pan and add oil:
- Set a large frying pan over medium heat and add your choice of oil or butter. Swirl it around the pan so it coats the surface evenly. This helps the tortilla get crispy and prevents sticking.
- Cook the quesadilla:
- Place the filled quesadilla carefully in the pan. Let it cook for about two to five minutes without moving it. Look for a golden and crispy bottom with cheese starting to melt inside. Use a spatula to carefully flip the quesadilla over. Cook another two to three minutes until the other side is crispy and the cheese is fully melted.
- Season and serve:
- Remove the quesadilla from the pan and sprinkle a pinch of salt over it while it’s still hot. Repeat the process with the remaining ingredients. Slice into wedges and serve with more ranch dressing, salsa, or pickled jalapenos if you like a bit of kick.
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The ranch dressing is my secret weapon here. It brings a bright herbaceous creaminess that really balances the salty bacon and sharp cheddar. This dish always reminds me of late weeknights in my kitchen when everyone is hungry but no one wants to spend long cooking. It’s an easy crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers wrapped tightly in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in a toaster oven or on a skillet to keep the outside crispy. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crunch.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder flavor and extra stretchiness. Use rotisserie chicken alternatives like leftover grilled chicken or canned chicken for convenience. You can replace ranch with blue cheese or a creamy Caesar dressing for a flavor twist.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Pickled jalapenos add a nice spicy contrast. A side of black beans or corn salad makes this a heartier meal.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of cheese works best in these quesadillas?
Shredded cheddar cheese melts well and provides a rich, sharp flavor that complements the chicken and bacon perfectly.
- → Can I substitute rotisserie chicken with another type?
Yes, precooked boneless chicken from any source works well to keep the filling tender and flavorful.
- → What is the best way to achieve a crispy tortilla?
Cook the quesadilla in a medium-heat pan with a small amount of oil or butter until both sides are golden and crisp.
- → How can I add extra flavor to the quesadillas?
Adding finely diced scallions and drizzling ranch dressing inside enhances freshness and creaminess, balancing the smoky bacon.
- → What are good accompaniments for serving?
Serve with extra ranch, salsa, or pickled jalapenos to add varying layers of flavor and a bit of heat.