Dinner

Air Fryer Chicken Quesadilla with Spicy Jalapeno Cream Recipe

ByIsabella Vance February 24, 2026February 24, 2026

Introduction

This Air Fryer Quesadilla is a quick and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. Packed with seasoned chicken, melted cheese, and a tangy jalapeño sauce, it’s a perfect snack or meal that comes together in minutes using your air fryer.

A stack of four triangular quesadilla pieces sits on a white plate, each layer showing a golden-brown toasted tortilla filled with shredded chicken and melted cheese, visible as light orange and white layers. Small bits of chopped red tomatoes and green herbs are scattered on and around the quesadillas, adding pops of color. One piece is held above the stack by a woman's hand, topped with a smooth dollop of white sour cream garnished with green herb leaves. The white plate contrasts with the warm colors of the quesadilla and the fresh toppings, all set against a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sour cream
1 tablespoon pickled jalapenos, diced
1 tablespoon juice from jar of pickled jalapenos
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon chili powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup shredded, cooked chicken
2 teaspoons taco seasoning
2 8-inch flour tortillas
½ cup shredded Monterey jack cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, diced jalapenos, jalapeno juice, cumin, chili powder, and salt to make the sauce.
Step 2: In another bowl, toss the shredded cooked chicken with the taco seasoning until evenly coated.
Step 3: Lay the tortillas flat and spread about a tablespoon or two of the quesadilla sauce on half of each tortilla (you won’t use all the sauce).
Step 4: Sprinkle the Monterey jack cheese over the sauce, then evenly distribute the seasoned chicken on top, finishing with the shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Fold the tortillas in half to enclose the filling and place them in the air fryer basket. Lightly spritz the outside of the tortillas with cooking spray.
Step 6: Air fry at 350°F for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tortillas are golden brown and crisp to your liking.
Step 7: Serve hot with the remaining sauce for dipping, if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, brush the tortillas lightly with oil instead of using cooking spray.
Swap the chicken for cooked beef, pork, or vegetables for different protein options.
Add chopped fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice after cooking for a bright finish.
Use pepper jack cheese if you want a little extra heat.

Storage

Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or a skillet at medium heat to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, which can make the tortillas soggy.

How to Serve

The image shows two golden brown folded tacos inside a black air fryer basket, garnished with small green herb pieces on top and fresh green cilantro on the side. Around the basket, there are small white bowls with colorful toppings: one contains red and green salsa, another white sour cream with green herb bits. Sliced green jalapeños are placed on a white marbled surface next to the salsa bowl. A white plate sits with two silver forks resting on it, and a textured beige cloth is partially visible under the air fryer basket. The overall setting is bright and fresh with a focus on the crispy tacos. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this quesadilla without an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook the quesadillas on a skillet over medium heat, flipping to brown both sides and melt the cheese. The air fryer just makes them crispier and quicker to cook.

What can I use instead of pickled jalapenos if I don’t have any?

You can substitute fresh jalapenos, finely diced, or use a dash of hot sauce to add heat and tang to the sauce. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference.