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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the allure of a well-made quesadilla. The Cheddar Jalapeño Chicken Quesadilla Bake takes this beloved classic to a whole new level, combining the rich creaminess of cheese with the bold kick of jalapeños for a dish that is both satisfying and indulgent. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings together family and friends, making it perfect for cozy family dinners, lively game days, or festive potlucks.

Cheddar Jalapeño Chicken Quesadilla Bake

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Cheddar Jalapeño Chicken Quesadilla Bake! This delicious dish combines creamy cheddar cheese, spicy jalapeños, and tender chicken for an unforgettable meal perfect for family dinners or game day gatherings. Easy to prepare, it's all about layering flavors and textures to create a cheesy delight that everyone will love. Serve it with sour cream or guacamole for an extra touch. Gather your loved ones and enjoy this satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated

1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, grated

1/4 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1/2 cup pickled jalapeños, chopped (adjust according to desired spice level)

1 cup salsa (choose mild or spicy based on preference)

8 small flour tortillas

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

1 cup sour cream (for serving, optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it reaches the temperature for even baking.

    Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sharp cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, softened cream cheese, chopped jalapeños, salsa, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Use a spatula to mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well blended and creamy.

      Assemble the Quesadilla Bake: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or oil. Place 4 tortillas at the bottom of the dish, overlapping them if necessary. Spread half of the creamy chicken filling evenly over the tortillas to create a delicious first layer.

        Add More Tortillas and Filling: Place the remaining 4 tortillas on top of the chicken filling. Spread the rest of the filling generously over this layer, smoothing it out to ensure every tortilla is well covered.

          Top with Cheese: Sprinkle any leftover grated cheese generously over the final layer, giving it a wonderful gooey finish once baked.

            Bake to Perfection: Carefully place the baking dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned on top.

              Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the quesadilla from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Slice the dish into squares and serve warm, accompanied by a side of sour cream if desired.

                - Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | Serves 6-8

                  Enjoy this delightful mix of cheesy and spicy flavors, perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner!