Name: Chicken Quesadillas with Blue Cheese and Caramelized Onions Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 51 min
Total time: 1 h 6 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 8 skinless chicken thighs on the bone; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tbsp rosemary; 2 clove garlic; kosher salt; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 onions; 2 tbsp thyme; 1½ tbsp sherry vinegar; pinch sugar; freshly ground pepper; 12 flour tortillas; 4 oz blue cheese

Dive into the delicious world of fusion cuisine with this unique twist to the traditional chicken quesadilla. We're incorporating rich blue cheese and sweet, caramelized onions to create a dish that's sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Photos of Chicken Quesadillas with Blue Cheese and Caramelized Onions Recipe

This recipe may require a few ingredients that aren't commonly found in home pantries. One of which is blue cheese, a type of cheese known for its strong flavor and aroma. It's available in most supermarkets, usually in the cheese section. Another ingredient to keep an eye out for is sherry vinegar, a gourmet vinegar with a sweet, complex flavor that's commonly used in Spanish cuisine.

Chicken Quesadillas Ingredients: Blue Cheese and Caramelized Onions

Skinless chicken thighs on the bone: Rich in flavor and tender, they are perfect for shredding and adding to the quesadillas.

Extra virgin olive oil: Used for grilling the chicken and cooking the onions, lends a rich flavor to the dish.

Rosemary: Adds a unique, aromatic flavor to the chicken.

Garlic: Offers a robust flavor that complements the chicken and onions.

Unsalted butter: Helps in caramelizing the onions and adds richness to the dish.

Onions: When caramelized, they add a sweet and savory element to the quesadillas.

Thyme: Enhances the flavor of the onions during caramelization.

Sherry vinegar: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the caramelized onions.

Flour tortillas: The base of any quesadilla, these will hold all the delicious ingredients together.

Blue cheese: Known for its strong, tangy flavor, it adds a unique touch to the quesadillas.

One reader, Donica Champagne says:

The chicken quesadillas with blue cheese and caramelized onions recipe is a game-changer! The combination of tender chicken, tangy blue cheese, and sweet caramelized onions is a flavor explosion. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a delicious twist on a classic dish.

Donica Champagne

Techniques Required for Making Chicken Quesadillas With Blue Cheese and Caramelized Onions

How to marinate the chicken: Toss the chicken thighs with olive oil, rosemary, garlic, and salt in a bowl. Let it stand at room temperature for 30 minutes or refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.

How to caramelize onions: In a large, deep skillet, melt butter with olive oil. Add sliced onions, thyme, vinegar, sugar, and pepper. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened, about 30 minutes. Add water as needed to keep the onions moist.

How to grill the chicken: Season the marinated chicken with salt and pepper, then grill over moderately high heat, turning, until lightly charred and cooked through, about 15 minutes. Let the chicken cool, then pull the meat from the bones and tear into shreds.

How to assemble the quesadillas: Arrange tortillas on baking sheets. Spoon the caramelized onions onto the tortillas and top with the shredded chicken and blue cheese. Cover with the remaining tortillas, pressing to flatten slightly.

How to bake the quesadillas: Bake the assembled quesadillas in a preheated oven at 500 degrees F for about 6 minutes, until golden and toasted.

How to serve: Transfer the quesadillas to plates and serve immediately.

How to make ahead: The unbaked quesadillas can be tightly wrapped in plastic and refrigerated overnight.

How To Make Chicken Quesadillas with Blue Cheese and Caramelized Onions

Sweet caramelized onions, pungent blue cheese, and gooey cheese is packed into these savory chicken quesadillas for a truly delectable meal!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 51 minutes

Stand Time: 30 minutes

Total: 1 hour 36 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

8chicken thighs,(about 4 lbs), skinless, on the bone
3tbspextra virgin olive oil
1tbsprosemary,chopped
2garlic cloves
kosher salt
3tbspunsalted butter
2onions
2tbspthyme,chopped
1½tbspsherry vinegar
pinchsugar
freshly ground pepper
12flour tortillas
4ozblue cheese

Instructions

In a bowl, toss the chicken thighs with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil, the rosemary, garlic and a generous pinch of salt.
Cover and let the chicken stand at room temperature for 30 minutes or refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.
In a large, deep skillet, melt the butter in the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced onions, thyme, vinegar, sugar and a generous pinch of pepper.
Cook over moderately low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes, until the onions are softened; adding a few tablespoons of water from time to time to keep the onions moist.
Light a grill and preheat the oven to 500 degrees F.
Season the chicken with salt and pepper and grill over moderately high heat, turning, for about 15 minutes, until lightly charred and cooked through.
Let the chicken cool, then pull the meat from the bones and tear into shreds.
Arrange 6 tortillas on 2 large baking sheets. Spoon the onions onto the tortillas and top with the shredded chicken and blue cheese. Cover with the remaining tortillas, pressing to flatten slightly.
Bake for about 6 minutes, until the quesadillas are golden and toasted.
Transfer the quesadillas to plates and serve right away. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Make Ahead: The unbaked quesadillas can be tightly wrapped in plastic and refrigerated overnight

Nutrition

Calories: 1080.57kcal
Fat: 68.23g
Saturated Fat: 21.00g
Trans Fat: 0.47g
Monounsaturated Fat: 29.49g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 12.14g
Carbohydrates: 59.91g
Fiber: 3.56g
Sugar: 9.71g
Protein: 55.18g
Cholesterol: 281.63mg
Sodium: 1155.48mg
Calcium: 300.91mg
Potassium: 794.61mg
Iron: 5.49mg
Vitamin A: 147.84µg
Vitamin C: 4.74mg

Helpful Technique for Making Chicken Quesadillas With Blue Cheese and Caramelized Onions

When caramelizing onions, patience is key. The process can take up to 30 minutes, but it's worth the wait. The slow cooking process draws out the onions' natural sugars, resulting in a sweet and rich flavor that complements the savory chicken and tangy blue cheese. Resist the urge to crank up the heat to speed up the process, as this can cause the onions to burn and develop a bitter taste. Instead, keep the heat at a moderate level and stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Adding a pinch of sugar can help speed up the caramelization process without compromising the flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken and caramelize the onions the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-cooked chicken: Utilize leftover rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken to cut down on cooking time.

Pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheese to skip the shredding step and save time.

Double batch: Make a double batch of the caramelized onions and freeze the extra for future use.

Assembly line: Set up an assembly line for filling the quesadillas to streamline the process.

Electric grill: Use an electric grill for cooking the chicken to save time and effort.

Tortilla warmer: Warm the tortillas in a tortilla warmer or microwave to speed up the assembly process.

Prep station: Organize all ingredients and tools in advance to create an efficient cooking station.

Substitute Ingredients For Chicken Quesadillas with Blue Cheese and Caramelized Onions Recipe

chicken thighs - Substitute with boneless, skinless chicken breast: Chicken breast can be used as a leaner alternative to chicken thighs, and it cooks faster, making it a convenient substitute for this recipe.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a suitable replacement for extra virgin olive oil in this recipe.
rosemary - Substitute with thyme: Thyme can be used as a substitute for rosemary, providing a similar earthy and slightly floral flavor to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for garlic, providing a milder, sweeter flavor to the dish.
unsalted butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee can be used as a substitute for unsalted butter, adding a rich, nutty flavor to the dish.
onions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for onions, providing a milder and sweeter flavor to the dish.
thyme - Substitute with oregano: Oregano can be used as a substitute for thyme, providing a similar earthy and slightly minty flavor to the dish.
sherry vinegar - Substitute with red wine vinegar: Red wine vinegar can be used as a substitute for sherry vinegar, providing a slightly tangy and fruity flavor to the dish.
flour tortillas - Substitute with corn tortillas: Corn tortillas can be used as a substitute for flour tortillas, providing a slightly different texture and flavor to the dish.
blue cheese - Substitute with gorgonzola cheese: Gorgonzola cheese can be used as a substitute for blue cheese, providing a similar tangy and creamy flavor to the dish.

Presenting Chicken Quesadillas With Blue Cheese and Caramelized Onions

Elevate the quesadillas: Stack the quesadillas in a pyramid shape on the plate to create a visually appealing presentation that showcases the layers of flavorful ingredients.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped cilantro and parsley over the quesadillas to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the dish.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Use a squeeze bottle to drizzle a balsamic reduction in a zigzag pattern on the plate, adding a sophisticated touch to the presentation.
Plate with precision: Carefully position the quesadillas on the plate, ensuring that each component is showcased elegantly and with attention to detail.
Use complementary side dishes: Accompany the quesadillas with small servings of vibrant side dishes, such as a mango salsa or a mixed greens salad, to add visual interest and balance to the plate.
Consider the plate shape and color: Choose a plate that complements the colors of the quesadillas and enhances the overall presentation, such as a round plate in a neutral tone to allow the quesadillas to take center stage.
Add a touch of flair with edible flowers: Place a few edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies, strategically around the plate to introduce a delicate and visually striking element to the presentation.
Emphasize symmetry and balance: Arrange the quesadillas and accompanying elements with a focus on symmetry and balance, creating a visually harmonious and aesthetically pleasing plate.

Storing and Freezing Chicken Quesadillas With Blue Cheese and Caramelized Onions

To store leftover chicken quesadillas, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the quesadillas, wrap each one individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Place the wrapped quesadillas in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat refrigerated quesadillas, unwrap them and place them on a baking sheet in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
For frozen quesadillas, you can reheat them directly from the freezer. Unwrap the quesadillas, place them on a baking sheet, and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Alternatively, you can reheat the quesadillas in a skillet or on a griddle over medium heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through and crispy.
If you have leftover caramelized onions, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can be used as a topping for burgers, sandwiches, or salads.
Leftover shredded chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Use it in salads, sandwiches, or tacos for quick and easy meals.

How To Reheat Leftover Chicken Quesadillas

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover quesadillas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melted. This method will help restore the crispiness of the tortillas and ensure the filling is heated through evenly.
If you prefer a quicker reheating method, you can use a skillet or griddle. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the quesadillas on the hot surface and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the tortillas are crispy and the filling is heated through. This method is ideal if you want to maintain the crispiness of the tortillas while quickly reheating the filling.
For a microwave option, place the leftover quesadillas on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the filling is heated through and the cheese is melted. Keep in mind that microwaving may result in slightly softer tortillas compared to the oven or skillet methods.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your quesadillas for a crispy texture. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the quesadillas in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the tortillas are crispy and the filling is heated through. This method is a quick and healthy alternative to deep frying.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to let the quesadillas cool for a minute or two before cutting and serving, as the filling will be hot. If desired, you can serve the reheated quesadillas with fresh toppings like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream to add extra flavor and freshness to the dish.

Interesting Fact About Chicken Quesadillas With Blue Cheese and Caramelized Onions

Quesadillas are a popular Mexican dish that can be traced back to the colonial period. The dish was initially made with tortillas and queso (cheese), and it has evolved over time to include a variety of fillings, such as chicken, beef, vegetables, and different types of cheese. The versatility of quesadillas has made them a beloved dish in many parts of the world, and they are often enjoyed as a quick and delicious meal.

Is This Recipe Budget-Friendly for Home Cooking?

The cost-effectiveness of this chicken quesadillas with blue cheese and caramelized onions recipe is moderate. While the ingredients like chicken thighs, blue cheese, and sherry vinegar can be a bit pricey, the dish serves 4 and can be a satisfying meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30. The rich flavors and textures of this dish earn it a solid 8 out of 10. The combination of tender chicken, tangy blue cheese, and sweet caramelized onions creates a delightful and indulgent meal that is worth the investment.

Are Chicken Quesadillas With Blue Cheese and Caramelized Onions Healthy?

This chicken quesadilla recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

The use of skinless chicken thighs, which are higher in fat compared to leaner options like chicken breast
The generous amount of butter and olive oil used in cooking the onions and preparing the chicken
The inclusion of blue cheese, a high-fat dairy product
The use of flour tortillas, which are made from refined grains and lack the fiber and nutrients found in whole-grain alternatives

However, the recipe does include some healthier elements, such as the use of onions and herbs like rosemary and thyme, which provide beneficial nutrients and flavors without adding significant calories.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Opt for skinless, boneless chicken breast instead of thighs to reduce the overall fat content
Reduce the amount of butter and oil used in cooking the onions, or replace some of the butter with a healthier alternative like olive oil
Use a reduced-fat blue cheese or a smaller amount of regular blue cheese to decrease the saturated fat content
Swap the flour tortillas for whole-grain or corn tortillas, which offer more fiber and nutrients
Add more vegetables to the quesadillas, such as bell peppers or spinach, to increase the nutrient density of the dish
Serve the quesadillas with a side salad or a fresh salsa to balance out the meal with some lighter, healthier components

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the flavors of this chicken quesadilla recipe while also making it a more well-rounded and nutritious meal.

Editor's Opinion on Chicken Quesadillas With Blue Cheese and Caramelized Onions

The combination of tender grilled chicken, caramelized onions, and pungent blue cheese in these quesadillas creates a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The sweet and savory notes from the onions, the richness of the blue cheese, and the smoky char from the grilled chicken all come together beautifully. The recipe's use of rosemary, thyme, and sherry vinegar adds depth and complexity to the dish. The suggested wine pairing with a rich Zinfandel from Sonoma's Dry Creek Valley is a perfect complement to the bold flavors of the quesadillas. Overall, this recipe offers a delicious twist on a classic dish, perfect for a special meal or entertaining.

Enhance Your Chicken Quesadillas with Blue Cheese and Caramelized Onions Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Guacamole: Create a zesty and creamy guacamole with ripe avocados, fresh lime juice, and a hint of cilantro for a perfect accompaniment to the chicken quesadillas.

Mango salsa: Whip up a vibrant and refreshing mango salsa with diced mango, red onion, jalapeno, and a splash of lime juice to add a tropical twist to the dish.

Cilantro lime rice: Prepare fragrant and fluffy cilantro lime rice to serve alongside the quesadillas, featuring aromatic cilantro and zesty lime for a burst of flavor.

Grilled corn on the cob: Grill fresh corn on the cob and brush it with a savory garlic butter for a delicious and smoky side dish that complements the richness of the quesadillas.

Churros: Indulge in crispy and cinnamon-sugar coated churros for a sweet and satisfying dessert to round out the meal.

Similar Recipes to Chicken Quesadillas With Blue Cheese and Caramelized Onions

Spicy Beef Tacos: For a twist on traditional tacos, try these spicy beef tacos with a homemade salsa and avocado crema. The combination of flavors and textures will have your taste buds dancing!

Mango Salsa Chicken Salad: This refreshing and colorful salad is perfect for a light and healthy meal. The sweet and tangy mango salsa pairs perfectly with the grilled chicken and mixed greens.

Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up on a chilly day with a bowl of creamy butternut squash soup. The rich and velvety texture of the soup is complemented by the earthy flavors of the roasted squash and aromatic spices.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Chicken Quesadillas With Blue Cheese and Caramelized Onions

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms stuffed with a creamy mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs, then baked until golden and bubbly. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: A warm and gooey dip made with a blend of spinach, artichokes, and cheese, served with crispy tortilla chips for dipping. A crowd-pleasing appetizer that's always a hit at parties.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, warm chocolate lava cake oozing with rich, molten chocolate. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess.

Apple Crisp: Savor the comforting flavors of a warm apple crisp, topped with a crunchy oat and brown sugar crumble. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of cinnamon ice cream for a delightful autumn dessert.

Why trust this Chicken Quesadillas with Blue Cheese and Caramelized Onions Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of chicken, blue cheese, and caramelized onions, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The use of rosemary and thyme infuses the dish with aromatic notes, while the grilling process adds a smoky depth. The inclusion of sherry vinegar in the caramelized onions elevates the overall taste profile. The step-by-step instructions ensure a thorough and enjoyable cooking experience, promising a satisfying outcome. With the recommended wine pairing of Zinfandel, this recipe presents a well-rounded and trustworthy culinary adventure.

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FAQ:

What type of tortillas should I use for the quesadillas?

I recommend using flour tortillas for this recipe. They have a soft texture and mild flavor that pairs well with the chicken, blue cheese, and caramelized onions.

Can I use a different type of cheese if I don't have blue cheese?

Absolutely! If you're not a fan of blue cheese, you can substitute it with another cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even feta for a different flavor profile.

Can I prepare the chicken and onions ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and caramelize the onions ahead of time. This can help save time when you're ready to assemble and bake the quesadillas.

What can I serve with the chicken quesadillas?

You can serve the quesadillas with a side of guacamole, salsa, sour cream, or a simple green salad to balance out the flavors and add freshness to the meal.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a delicious vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. You can also add some black beans for protein and texture.