Introduction
Craving a quick, delicious, and easy-to-make appetizer or snack? Look no further than these Air Fryer Chicken Quesadilla Bites with Guacamole Dip! These bite-sized quesadillas are packed with seasoned chicken, gooey cheese, and crispy tortillas, all made extra crunchy using the air fryer. Paired with a creamy, homemade guacamole dip, this dish is perfect for game nights, parties, or a fun family snack. Best of all, the air fryer keeps them healthier without compromising on flavor or crunch.
Ingredients
For the Quesadilla Bites:
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 6 medium flour tortillas
- Cooking spray
For the Guacamole Dip:
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 small red onion, finely diced
- 1 Roma tomato, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for spice)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil.
- Season the chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, and then shred it using two forks.
Step 2: Assemble the Quesadilla Bites
- Lay a tortilla flat and sprinkle a layer of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on one half.
- Add a layer of shredded chicken over the cheese.
- Fold the tortilla in half and press down gently.
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the folded tortilla into bite-sized pieces (about 2 inches each).
Step 3: Air Fry the Quesadilla Bites
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Place the quesadilla bites in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd them.
- Air fry the bites for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Prepare the Guacamole Dip
- Slice the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a mixing bowl.
- Mash the avocados with a fork, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Stir in diced red onion, tomato, minced garlic, jalapeño (if using), and lime juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, and mix in chopped cilantro if desired.
Step 5: Serve
- Arrange the crispy quesadilla bites on a serving platter.
- Place the guacamole dip in a small bowl alongside the bites.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, cheesy bites dipped in fresh guacamole!
Cooking Notes
- If you prefer spicier quesadillas, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
- For extra crispiness, brush a bit of oil on the outside of the tortillas before air frying.
- You can also add diced bell peppers or corn to the chicken mixture for additional flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
These Air Fryer Chicken Quesadilla Bites pair perfectly with:
- Sour cream
- Salsa or pico de gallo
- A sprinkle of fresh cilantro
- Fresh lime wedges for an extra zesty kick
Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking the chicken.
- Make it vegetarian by replacing the chicken with black beans, sautéed mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Freeze leftovers: Store the bites in an airtight container and freeze. Reheat in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to bring back the crispiness.
- Customize the cheese: Use your favorite cheese blend, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for a different flavor profile.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Total Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 2g
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Chicken Quesadilla Bites with Guacamole Dip are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s simple to make and loaded with flavor. The air fryer gives them a delightful crunch without the extra oil, making them a healthier yet satisfying snack option. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a fun dinner idea, these bite-sized quesadillas are sure to impress!
PrintAir Fryer Chicken Quesadilla Bites with Guacamole Dip
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Quesadilla Bites:
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 6 medium flour tortillas
- Cooking spray
For the Guacamole Dip:
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 small red onion, finely diced
- 1 Roma tomato, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for spice)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil.
- Season the chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, and then shred it using two forks.
Step 2: Assemble the Quesadilla Bites
- Lay a tortilla flat and sprinkle a layer of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on one half.
- Add a layer of shredded chicken over the cheese.
- Fold the tortilla in half and press down gently.
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the folded tortilla into bite-sized pieces (about 2 inches each).
Step 3: Air Fry the Quesadilla Bites
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Place the quesadilla bites in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd them.
- Air fry the bites for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Prepare the Guacamole Dip
- Slice the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a mixing bowl.
- Mash the avocados with a fork, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Stir in diced red onion, tomato, minced garlic, jalapeño (if using), and lime juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, and mix in chopped cilantro if desired.
Step 5: Serve
- Arrange the crispy quesadilla bites on a serving platter.
- Place the guacamole dip in a small bowl alongside the bites.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, cheesy bites dipped in fresh guacamole!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Sodium: 540mg
- Protein: 20g