Grilled Curry Chicken Quesadillas
Smoky grilled curry-marinated chicken layered with melted Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar inside crispy golden tortillas. These bold, flavor-packed quesadillas are ready in 30 minutes and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Equipment
- grill or grill pan
- large skillet
- mixing bowl
- tongs
- instant-read thermometer
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup full-fat plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
- 4 large flour tortillas (10–12 inch)
- 1 1/2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp butter or neutral oil for cooking
Instructions
- Whisk yogurt, curry powder, garlic, ginger, olive oil, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Add chicken thighs and coat thoroughly. Marinate at least 15 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate up to 8 hours.
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high and lightly oil grates.
- Grill chicken 5–6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Rest 5 minutes before slicing.
- Sauté sliced red onion and bell pepper in a skillet with a pinch of salt for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Lay tortilla flat. Sprinkle cheese over entire surface, then add sliced chicken, vegetables, and cilantro to one half. Fold closed.
- Heat butter or oil in skillet over medium. Cook quesadilla 2–3 minutes per side until golden and cheese melts. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
- Rest 1 minute before slicing. Serve with sour cream, mango chutney, and lime wedges if desired.
Notes
Marinate chicken at least 15 minutes for best flavor. Let grilled chicken rest before slicing to retain juices. Avoid overfilling quesadillas to ensure even melting and crisp tortillas. Use medium heat to prevent burning before cheese fully melts.