When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can match the satisfying combination of crispy, golden tortillas, melted cheese, and a savory filling. Chicken quesadillas have earned their place as a go-to meal for busy families, quick lunches, and laid-back dinners. Today, we’re taking it up a notch with a Campbell Soup Chicken Quesadilla recipe that’s not only easy to make but also rich in flavor. This dish brings a delightful creaminess and depth to the traditional quesadilla, courtesy of Campbell’s cream-based soups. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe promises to bring something special to your kitchen.
Let’s dive into this recipe and explore all the details that make it so irresistible.
Campbell Soup Chicken Quesadillas Recipe
A perfect balance of convenience and flavor, this Campbell Soup Chicken Quesadilla recipe incorporates hearty chicken, creamy soup, and flavorful seasonings all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. It’s a dish you can easily customize, making it a winner in any household.
Ingredients Needed
Before jumping into cooking, let’s make sure you have everything you need on hand. Here’s a full list of ingredients to gather:
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Chicken (cooked And Shredded)
Use rotisserie chicken, leftovers, or freshly cooked chicken breasts. Shredded chicken works best for getting that perfect bite in every quesadilla.
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Campbell’s Cream Of Chicken Soup
The star ingredient! The creamy texture and subtle seasoning of Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup bring richness and moisture to the quesadillas. It’s the secret ingredient that makes this dish stand out.
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Shredded Cheddar Cheese
A must for that melty, gooey goodness. You can also use a combination of cheeses like Monterey Jack for extra flavor.
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Tortillas (flour Or Whole Wheat)
Flour tortillas are the classic choice, but whole wheat tortillas can be used for a healthier option.
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Sour Cream (optional for serving)
A dollop of sour cream can be the perfect tangy contrast to the rich, savory quesadilla filling.
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Chopped Green Onions
For added freshness and a mild crunch.
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Chopped Bell Peppers (optional)
These add a pop of color and a hint of sweetness, elevating the flavor profile.
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Spices: Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Paprika, Salt, And Pepper
These simple pantry staples bring depth to the chicken filling and balance the creaminess of the soup.
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Butter Or Olive Oil
For frying the quesadillas and achieving that golden crispy texture.
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s get into the cooking process. This recipe is simple, but it requires a bit of attention to detail for the best results.
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Prepare The Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the cooked and shredded chicken with the Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until the chicken is evenly coated in the creamy soup mixture. If you want to add bell peppers or green onions, mix them in here too for a burst of flavor.
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Assemble The Quesadillas
Place a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon an even layer of the chicken mixture onto one half of the tortilla. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the chicken mixture. Fold the tortilla in half, covering the filling.
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Cook The Quesadillas
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or olive oil. Once hot, place the folded quesadilla on the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until it turns golden brown and crispy. Flip the quesadilla and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until it’s equally crispy and the cheese has fully melted.
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Cut And Serve
Once both sides are golden and the cheese is melted, remove the quesadilla from the skillet. Let it rest for a minute before slicing it into wedges. Serve with sour cream or salsa on the side for extra flavor.
Ingredient Insights
The choice of ingredients for this recipe makes all the difference. Let’s break down why each one is essential:
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Campbell’s Cream Of Chicken Soup
This soup is more than just a binder; it adds a rich, velvety texture to the filling. The subtle chicken flavor enhances the overall taste, providing a creamy base without overwhelming the other ingredients. Plus, it’s quick and easy to use, making it a time-saving option.
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Shredded Chicken
Chicken provides the protein and heartiness that makes quesadillas a satisfying meal. By using shredded chicken, you get a perfect ratio of meat to creamy filling in each bite.
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Cheese
The melty cheese is what makes quesadillas irresistible. Cheddar is a classic choice because of its sharp flavor and smooth melt, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses. A mix of Monterey Jack and cheddar gives you a nice balance of creaminess and flavor.
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Spices
Garlic and onion powder are the backbone of the seasoning in this dish, giving a savory depth. Paprika adds a mild smokiness, while salt and pepper are essential for balancing out the richness of the soup and cheese.
Expert Tips
- Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to load your quesadilla with as much filling as possible, overstuffing can make it difficult to cook evenly. Keep the filling to a moderate amount to avoid spillage and ensure a crispy tortilla.
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: For the best crisp, a cast-iron skillet retains heat well and helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
- Add Extra Heat: If you like a little spice, sprinkle some chili powder or diced jalapeños into the filling to kick things up a notch.
- Crispier Tortillas: If you want extra-crisp tortillas, brush the outside with a little melted butter before frying. It will help you get that golden color and extra crispness.
- Rest Before Cutting: Let your quesadillas sit for a minute after cooking. This helps the cheese set and makes cutting them into wedges easier without the cheese oozing out.
Recipe Variations
This basic recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some variations to make it your own:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for black beans or a mixture of sautéed veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, and corn for a meatless version that’s still hearty and satisfying.
- Spicy Chicken Quesadillas: Add a bit of heat by mixing in diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or chili flakes into the chicken mixture.
- Grilled Chicken Quesadillas: For a more grilled flavor, use grilled chicken instead of shredded rotisserie chicken. This adds a smoky taste to the filling.
- Add Avocado: For a creamy, fresh touch, add slices of avocado to the quesadilla before folding it. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the cheese and soup filling.
Final Words
The Campbell Soup Chicken Quesadilla recipe is the kind of dish you’ll want to make over and over again. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavors that appeal to everyone at the table. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing a simple snack, these quesadillas are a surefire hit.
With a few ingredients, some basic cooking skills, and a bit of creativity, you can turn this recipe into a meal that will leave everyone asking for more. And with the expert tips and recipe variations, you can easily tailor it to your preferences.