LunchEasyGluten-Free

Chicken Quesadilla (Corn Tortilla)

Golden corn tortillas with seasoned chicken and melted aged cheddar. Gluten-free comfort food in 25 minutes.

Chicken Quesadilla (Corn Tortilla)
Total Time
25m
Servings
2
Calories
385
Fiber
3g
Protein
28g
Carbs
30g
Fat
18g
Best ForSafe for Crohn's & UC
RecoveringRemissionPost-Op (Late)J-Pouch

Watch Out For

corn tortillasmild

Corn can be harder to digest for some; masa is more processed than whole corn

Tip: Most tolerate masa well; try one quesadilla first to gauge response

aged cheddar cheesemild

Contains trace lactose; aged 12+ months has <0.1g per ounce

Tip: Use dairy-free shredded cheese (Daiya, Violife) if very sensitive

cuminmild

Warming spice; individual tolerance varies

Tip: Omit and season with salt only

paprikamild

Non-capsaicin spice; generally well-tolerated

Tip: Omit if uncertain about spice tolerance

Ingredients

  • Moderate FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP

Instructions

  1. Combine the shredded chicken with cumin, paprika, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl, tossing until the spices coat the chicken evenly.

    Equipment: small bowl
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat for about 1 minute, until the surface feels warm when you hold your hand a few inches above it.

    Equipment: large skillet (10-inch or larger)
  3. Add about 1 teaspoon of olive oil to the skillet and swirl to coat the bottom evenly.

  4. Place one corn tortilla flat in the skillet.

  5. Sprinkle 1/4 cup (about 30g) of shredded cheese evenly over the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.

  6. Distribute half of the seasoned chicken (about 1/2 cup) over the cheese in an even layer.

  7. Top with another 1/4 cup of cheese, then place a second tortilla on top and press down gently with a spatula.

  8. Cook for 2-3 minutes without moving, until the bottom tortilla is golden brown and crispy at the edges. You should hear a gentle sizzle.

    Tip: Press down firmly with a spatula to help the cheese melt and the tortilla crisp
  9. Slide a wide spatula under the quesadilla, supporting it fully, and carefully flip it over in one motion.

    Equipment: wide spatula
  10. Cook the second side for 2-3 minutes, until golden and the cheese is fully melted and begins to ooze slightly at the edges.

  11. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 1 minute to let the cheese set slightly.

    Equipment: cutting board
  12. Repeat steps 3-11 with the remaining ingredients to make the second quesadilla.

  13. Cut each quesadilla into 4 wedges. Serve warm with sour cream, salsa, and fresh cilantro on the side.

    Equipment: sharp knife, pizza cutter

Notes

Storage

Refrigerate cooked quesadillas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side to restore crispness, or microwave for 30-60 seconds (tortilla won't be as crispy).

Freezing

Wrap individual quesadillas tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cheese options

Aged cheddar (12+ months) has virtually no lactose and is often well-tolerated. Use dairy-free shredded cheese (Daiya, Violife) if you're avoiding dairy entirely.

Chicken prep

Rotisserie chicken is the fastest option. Also works with leftover grilled chicken, poached chicken breast, or canned chicken (drained and shredded).

Salsa warning

Many store-bought salsas contain garlic and onion (high-FODMAP). Look for simple pico de gallo with just tomatoes, cilantro, lime, and salt, or make your own.

Make-ahead

Season and shred the chicken up to 2 days in advance. Assemble and cook the quesadillas fresh for best texture.

Crispier texture

Press down firmly with a spatula while cooking. Don't rush the browning.

IBD Considerations

Diet Protocol Compliance

How this recipe fits common IBD dietary approaches