Corn Tortilla Quesadilla: Step-By-Step Recipe
Try our Corn Tortilla Quesadilla if you frequently make quesadillas with flour tortillas. These quesadillas contain chicken, cheese, pepper, and corn and taste better because of the corn. They are ideal for a speedy lunch, dinner, or after-school snack.
What’s not to love about these crunchy, cheesy quesadillas made with corn tortillas? I like to call these taco quesadillas, although they can also be called Mulitas. Two maize tortillas loaded with meat and cheese and crisped in a skillet or griddle.
In addition, they relate to birra tacos in certain ways. My favourite restaurant serves a variation of these known as Queso Tacos.
They’re an excellent way to repurpose leftover taco meat and corn tortillas. All these leftover taco meat recipes are a suggestion. But ground beef taco meat or leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken can also be useful.
What Is A Corn Tortilla Quesadilla?
Corn Tortilla Quesadillas are a classic Mexican dish. They are versatile and easy. In addition, they can customize to suit any taste or dietary preference.
They cook by filling a folded tortilla with cheese and other ingredients of your choice such as beans, meat, vegetables, or seafood. They then cook on a griddle or in a pan until the cheese melts and the tortilla turns crispy.
However, The key ingredient that sets them apart from others is the use of corn tortillas. Corn tortillas have Corn Masa. It is a type of dough made from dried corn kernels that have been cooked in an alkaline solution, such as lime water. This process, known as Nixtamalization, softens the corn and makes it more digestible. The Masa then press into thin, flat circles and cook on a griddle or comal.
In addition, they have a distinct flavour and texture that sets them apart from other types of tortillas. They are a little chewy, with a nutty flavour, and hold up well when filled and cooked. They are also gluten-free which makes them a great option for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
When it comes to filling Corn Tortilla Quesadillas, the possibilities are endless. Some popular options include shredded cheese, chicken, corn, peppers, onions, and tomatoes. You can add extra flavour and add spices or herbs such as cumin, chilli powder, or cilantro.
Corn Tortilla Quesadillas serve as a snack or as a meal. They can enjoy it on their own or with a variety of toppings such as guacamole, salsa, sour cream, or chopped cilantro. They also often serve with a side of rice and beans, which makes for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Why This Recipe Works
- Crispy, cheese-fried Corn Tortilla Quesadillas are quick and easy to make (15 minutes). These are far crisper than microwaved or cooked quesadillas.
- Quesadillas are an excellent way to repurpose leftovers. They are quite adaptable and can be filled with whichever fillings you like.
- These quesadillas can cook with or without a griddle. A large skillet is ideal!
- This vegetarian or vegan Corn Tortilla Quesadilla dish is available. Corn tortillas are gluten-free by nature (always check the package).
- Offer these as a snack, appetizer, or lunch. The dish was scaled for a large group.
- The fried Corn Tortilla Quesadillas are suitable for children.
Ingredients Required to Make Corn Tortilla Quesadilla
- 1 ½ teaspoon Chili Powder: It is a spice blend made from dried chilli peppers, cumin, oregano, and other spices. It adds a spicy and smoky flavour to dishes and is used in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine.
- ½ teaspoon Cumin: Cumin is a spice that comes from the dried seeds of the cumin plant. It has a warm, earthy flavour and is used in Mexican, Indian, and Middle Eastern cuisine.
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder: Garlic powder, has dehydrated garlic cloves. They have ground into a fine powder. It adds a savoury, garlic flavour to dishes. It is without the need for peeling and chopping fresh garlic cloves.
- ¼ teaspoon Dried Oregano: Dried oregano is a dried herb that comes from the oregano plant. It has a slightly bitter, slightly sweet flavour and helps in Mediterranean and Mexican cuisine.
- ¼ teaspoon Paprika: Paprika is a spice that contains dried and ground peppers. The mild and sweet Hungarian varieties. It adds a mild, sweet and smoky flavour to dishes. It is famous in Spanish, Mexican, and Hungarian cuisine.
- ¼ teaspoon Salt and Pepper: Salt and pepper are common seasonings. It helps to enhance the flavour of dishes. Salt brings out the natural flavours of ingredients. While black pepper adds a slightly spicy and pungent taste.
- ⅛ teaspoon Cayenne: Cayenne is a spice that contains dried and ground red chilli peppers. It adds a spicy and hot flavour to dishes and is famous in Mexican, Indian, and Cajun cuisine.
- 1 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Chicken breasts are a lean and versatile cut of meat. It can cook in a variety of ways. When cooked full, they are moist, tender, and flavourful.
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil: Olive oil is a type of oil that has pressing olives. It has a fruity and slightly bitter taste and is popular in Mediterranean cuisine.
- ½ cup Onion: Onions are a vegetable that adds flavour and texture to dishes. They can be sautéed, caramelized, or roasted and are famous in many cuisines around the world.
- 1 cup Bell Pepper (colour of your choice): Bell peppers are a type of vegetable that comes in a variety of colours. Including green, red, yellow, and orange. They add sweetness and crunch to dishes. And they are popular in Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine.
- ½ cup Corn: Corn is a type of grain that’s used in Mexican cuisine. It adds sweetness and texture to dishes and can use fresh, frozen, or canned.
- ½ cup Black Beans: Black beans are a type of legume that is high in protein and fiber. They have a mild, earthy flavour and are helpful in Mexican and Southwestern cuisine.
- 16 Corn Tortillas: Corn tortillas are a type of tortilla made from corn masa. They are chewy, with a slightly nutty flavour, and used in Mexican cuisine.
- 2 cups Shredded Cheese (Sharp or Monterey Jack): Shredded cheese adds flavour and texture. Sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack are both popular choices. It melts well and adds a creamy and slightly tangy taste.
- Sour Cream, Salsa, Avocado, etc., if desired: These toppings add extra flavour and texture. Salsa adds a slightly sweet and spicy flavour. Sour cream adds creaminess. Avocado adds richness and healthy fats, and cilantro adds freshness and herbaceousness.
Tools Required to Make Corn Tortilla Quesadilla
To make Corn Tortilla Quesadillas, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools:
- Large Skillet: A large skillet or frying pan is essential for cooking the quesadillas. However, Look for a skillet that is non-stick and oven-safe if you plan on broiling the quesadillas to melt the cheese.
- Spatula: You’ll need a spatula to flip the quesadillas and ensure they cook evenly on both sides.
- Cutting Board: A cutting board is necessary for slicing and chopping ingredients. Like the chicken, onions, and peppers.
- Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for cutting and chopping ingredients. Especially the chicken and vegetables.
- Measuring Spoons: You’ll need measuring spoons. It is to measure the spices used in the recipe.
- Can Opener: If you are using canned corn and black beans, you’ll need a can opener to open the cans.
- Cheese Grater: If you are using block cheese, you’ll need a cheese grater to shred the cheese.
- Oven (Optional): While not necessary, an oven can help to broil the quesadillas. It melts the cheese and creates a crispy exterior.
Corn Tortilla Quesadilla Recipe
Our Corn Tortilla Quesadilla recipe adds extra flavour to your already tasty quesadillas. Loaded with vegetables and chicken, it makes for an easy snack, lunch or dinner option!
Servings: 8 pcs Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes Course: Entree Cuisine: Mexican, American Calories: 317 kcal
Whisk together cumin, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, salt, cayenne, and chilli powder in a small bowl.
After that, rub this spice mixture all over the chicken breasts.
Over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to a big skillet. Cook chicken in a skillet for 5–7 minutes on each side, or until golden and well done. When it is safe to handle, transfer to a cutting board, then dice and place in a medium bowl.
Add bell peppers and onions to the same pan that you used to cook the chicken (and extra olive oil, if necessary). To slightly soften, cook for 3 minutes. For the last minute of cooking, add the corn and black beans.
After that, clean out the skillet you’ve been using, or if you prefer, heat a griddle to medium heat. Each tortilla should have olive oil applied to one side.
In addition, put a tortilla on the skillet with the oil side up. Add some mozzarella shavings and about a half cup of the chicken mixture to the top. Add extra cheese and another tortilla, oil-side up, on top.
Cook for a further 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crisp. The quesadilla can be turned over with a spatula and cooked for an additional minute, or until the second side is equally crispy. The tortilla can be pressed down with a spatula if it begins to curl up. Repeat with the rest of the cheese, chicken mixture, and tortillas.
On a cutting board, arrange the quesadillas and cut each one into quarters. Serve with salsa, avocado, cilantro, sour cream, and any additional toppings you like.
Corn Tortilla Quesadilla: Nutritional Information
Calories: 317 kcal
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Protein: 23 g
Fat: 12 g
Cholesterol: 58 mg
Sodium: 386 mg
Fiber: 5 g
Sugar: 2 g
Tips To Make The Best Corn Tortilla Quesadilla
Here are some tips to help you make the best Corn Tortilla Quesadillas:
- Use a Non-Stick Skillet: Using this will help prevent the tortillas from sticking.
- Heat the Skillet Before Adding the Tortillas: Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the tortillas. This will help them cook and prevent them from becoming soggy.
- Cook the Chicken Separate: Cook the chicken separately. Before adding it to the quesadillas. This will ensure that it is fully cooked and adds flavour to the dish.
- Add the Cheese to the Tortilla: Add the cheese to the tortilla first. Before adding any other ingredients. This will help the cheese melt evenly and prevent it from spilling out of the quesadilla.
- Use High-Quality Cheese: Use high-quality cheese for the best flavour and melting properties. Sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack are good choices.
- Use Fresh Corn Tortillas: Use fresh corn tortillas for the best flavour and texture. If you can’t find fresh tortillas, look for ones that are still pliable and not too dry.
- Don’t Overfill the Quesadillas: Don’t overfill the quesadillas with too many ingredients. As this can make them difficult to flip and cause them to fall apart.
- Cook on Medium Heat: After that, Cook the quesadillas on medium heat. It is to prevent the tortillas from burning. It ensures that the cheese melts evenly.
- Cut the Quesadillas into Wedges: Cut the quesadillas into wedges. Before serving to make them easier to eat and serve.
- Serve with Toppings: In addition, Serve the quesadillas with toppings. For instance, salsa, sour cream, avocado, and cilantro. It helps to add flavour and texture.
FAQs
Do You Use Corn Or Flour Tortilla For Quesadilla?
Both corn and flour tortillas can be useful to make quesadillas, but corn tortillas are the traditional choice. Corn tortillas have a slightly nuttier and earthier flavour than flour tortillas. It makes them a great choice for quesadillas with a more rustic flavour profile. In addition, corn tortillas tend to hold up better to heat than flour tortillas. It makes them less likely to become soggy or fall apart when cooked with fillings and cheese.
However, some people prefer to use flour tortillas for quesadillas because they are softer and more pliable. It can make them easier to work with when assembling the quesadilla. The choice between corn and flour tortillas comes down to personal preference and the flavour profile you want to achieve in your quesadilla.
What Tortilla Is Best For Quesadilla?
Corn tortillas are the traditional choice for making quesadillas. And many people consider them to be the best option. Corn tortillas have a unique, slightly nutty flavour. It complements the fillings and cheese used in quesadillas. They are also more durable and less likely to become soggy than flour tortillas. It makes them ideal for holding the fillings and cheese together without breaking.
In addition, corn tortillas are gluten-free and lower in calories than flour tortillas. It makes them a healthier option. But, some people find them to be less pliable than flour tortillas. It can make them more challenging to work with when assembling the quesadillas. The choice between corn and flour tortillas comes down to personal preference. After all, many people prefer corn tortillas for their unique flavour when making quesadillas.
Can You Use Corn Tortillas Instead Of Flour?
Yes, you can use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas to make quesadillas. Corn tortillas are the traditional choice for quesadillas and are used in Mexican cuisine. They have a slightly nutty flavour and a more rustic texture than flour tortillas. Many people find this to be a desirable characteristic in quesadillas.
In addition, corn tortillas are gluten-free and lower in calories than flour tortillas. It makes them a healthier option for those with dietary restrictions. Or those who are looking to reduce their calorie intake. But, because they are less pliable than flour tortillas. Corn tortillas can be more challenging to work with when assembling the quesadillas. Therefore, with a little practice, though, you can learn to handle corn tortillas. And make delicious quesadillas using this traditional ingredient.
Do Mexicans Eat Corn Or Flour Tortillas?
Mexicans eat both corn and flour tortillas. In addition, the choice often depends on the region, dish, and personal preference. Corn tortillas are the traditional choice in many parts of Mexico. Especially in the central and southern regions, where they have been a staple for centuries. Corn tortillas have a distinct flavour and texture. It is well-suited to many traditional Mexican dishes. Such as tacos, enchiladas, and quesadillas. Flour tortillas, so, are more common in northern Mexico. They are often useful in dishes that have a Tex-Mex influence, such as burritos and fajitas.
However, In modern-day Mexico, both corn and flour tortillas are available and consumed. And people often choose one over the other based on personal preference. Or the dish they are preparing. Both types of tortillas have their own unique flavour and texture profiles. And many people enjoy them for different reasons. Some people may also have dietary restrictions. It needs them to choose one type of tortilla over the other. Such as those who are gluten intolerant or have celiac disease. After all, corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free.
Are Corn Quesadillas Healthy?
Corn quesadillas can be a healthy food choice when made fresh. Whole ingredients and prepared in a healthy manner. Here are some reasons why:
- Nutritional value: Corn tortillas are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They contain fewer calories and less fat than flour tortillas. It makes them a healthier choice for those looking to reduce their calorie intake.
- Gluten-free: In addition, Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free. It makes them a good option for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
- Filling ingredients: Quesadillas can have a variety of filling ingredients. It includes vegetables and lean proteins like chicken or beans. And also healthy fats like avocado. These ingredients provide essential nutrients. It can help make the quesadilla a balanced and nutritious meal.
Do Corn Tortillas Taste Like Flour Tortillas?
No, corn tortillas do not taste like flour tortillas. They have a distinct flavour and texture that is different from flour tortillas. Corn tortillas made from masa harina. It is a type of corn flour that treat with lime, giving it a unique flavour and aroma. They have a slightly nutty and earthy taste and a firmer, chewier texture than flour tortillas.
In contrast, flour tortillas cook from wheat flour. It gives them a milder flavour and a softer, more pliable texture. They are also usually larger and thinner than corn tortillas. It makes them ideal for rolling and wrapping around fillings.
While both corn and flour tortillas are popular choices for Mexican dishes. For instance, tacos, enchiladas, and quesadillas. They have their own unique taste and texture profiles. It makes them distinct from one another.
In Conclusion
Corn Tortilla Quesadilla is a delicious and versatile dish. It can have customization with a variety of fillings and toppings to suit your taste preferences.
If you prefer chicken, beef, vegetables, or beans. Therefore, you can have endless possibilities for creating a satisfying quesadilla using corn tortillas.
Therefore, you can create a flavourful and healthy meal that is sure to please. You can do it by following a few simple tips. For instance, using fresh ingredients, choosing healthy toppings like salsa, avocado, and cilantro,
So whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch, consider making a Corn Tortilla Quesadilla for a tasty and satisfying meal.
Corn Tortilla Quesadilla: Step-By-Step Recipe
Ingredients
- 1½ tsp Chili Powder
- ½ tsp Cumin
- ½ tsp Garlic Powder
- ¼ tsp Dried Oregano
- ¼ tsp Paprika
- ¼ tsp Salt and Pepper
- ⅛ tsp Cayenne
- 1 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- ½ cup Onion
- 1 cup Bell Pepper (colour of your choice)
- ½ cup Corn
- ½ cup Black Beans
- 16 Corn Tortillas
- 2 cups Shredded Cheese (Sharp or Monterey Jack)
For topping:
- Sour Cream, Salsa, Avocado, etc., if desired
Instructions
- Whisk together cumin, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, salt, cayenne, and chilli powder in a small bowl.
- After that, rub this spice mixture all over the chicken breasts.
- Over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to a big skillet. Cook chicken in a skillet for 5–7 minutes on each side, or until golden and well done. When it is safe to handle, transfer to a cutting board, then dice and place in a medium bowl.
- Add bell peppers and onions to the same pan that you used to cook the chicken (and extra olive oil, if necessary). To slightly soften, cook for 3 minutes. For the last minute of cooking, add the corn and black beans.
- After that, clean out the skillet you've been using, or if you prefer, heat a griddle to medium heat. Each tortilla should have olive oil applied to one side.
- In addition, put a tortilla on the skillet with the oil side up. Add some mozzarella shavings and about a half cup of the chicken mixture to the top. Add extra cheese and another tortilla, oil-side up, on top.
- Cook for a further 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crisp. The quesadilla can be turned over with a spatula and cooked for an additional minute, or until the second side is equally crispy. The tortilla can be pressed down with a spatula if it begins to curl up. Repeat with the rest of the cheese, chicken mixture, and tortillas.
- On a cutting board, arrange the quesadillas and cut each one into quarters. Serve with salsa, avocado, cilantro, sour cream, and any additional toppings you like.
Notes
- Use a Non-Stick Skillet: Using this will help prevent the tortillas from sticking.
- Heat the Skillet Before Adding the Tortillas: Make sure the skillet is hot. Before adding the tortillas. This will help them cook and prevent them from becoming soggy.
- Cook the Chicken Separate: Cook the chicken separately. Before adding it to the quesadillas. This will ensure that it is fully cooked and adds flavour to the dish.
- Add the Cheese to the Tortilla: Add the cheese to the tortilla first. Before adding any other ingredients. This will help the cheese melt evenly and prevent it from spilling out of the quesadilla.
- Use High-Quality Cheese: Use high-quality cheese for the best flavour and melting properties. Sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack are good choices.
- Use Fresh Corn Tortillas: Use fresh corn tortillas for the best flavour and texture. If you can't find fresh tortillas, look for ones that are still pliable and not too dry.
- Don't Overfill the Quesadillas: Don't overfill the quesadillas with too many ingredients. As this can make them difficult to flip and cause them to fall apart.
- Cook on Medium Heat: After that, Cook the quesadillas on medium heat. It is to prevent the tortillas from burning. It ensures that the cheese melts evenly.
- Cut the Quesadillas into Wedges: Cut the quesadillas into wedges. Before serving to make them easier to eat and serve.
- Serve with Toppings: In addition, Serve the quesadillas with toppings. For instance, salsa, sour cream, avocado, and cilantro. It helps to add flavour and texture.
