Save This hearty Cherry Chipotle Turkey Quesadilla Melt transforms leftover turkey into a bold, flavor-packed meal that's ready in just 20 minutes. The unexpected pairing of sweet cherries with smoky chipotle creates a taste sensation that elevates the humble quesadilla to something truly special.
I created this recipe after Thanksgiving when everyone was tired of traditional turkey sandwiches. The sweet cherry and smoky chipotle combination was such a hit that my family now requests I buy rotisserie chicken just to make these quesadillas year-round.
Ingredients
- Leftover turkey breast: provides lean protein and gives purpose to holiday leftovers
- Canned dark sweet cherries: add natural sweetness and unexpected flavor depth
- Chipotle peppers in adobo: bring smoky heat that balances the sweet cherries perfectly
- Red onion: adds essential sharpness and crunch
- Ground cumin and smoked paprika: create an aromatic spice foundation
- Monterey Jack cheese: melts beautifully for that essential quesadilla pull
- Sharp cheddar cheese: provides tanginess that cuts through the rich flavors
- Large flour tortillas: create the perfect vessel for holding generous fillings
- Butter for cooking: creates that irresistible golden crust that makes quesadillas special
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling:
- Combine shredded turkey, chopped cherries, finely diced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, red onion, and all spices in a mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly until everything is evenly distributed. The moisture from the cherries and adobo sauce should lightly coat all ingredients, creating a cohesive filling.
- Assemble the Quesadillas:
- Lay each tortilla flat and sprinkle about 1/4 cup of each cheese on half of each tortilla. Distribute the turkey mixture evenly over the cheese, then fold the tortillas in half to create semicircles. Press gently to compact the filling without squeezing it out of the edges.
- Cook to Golden Perfection:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat and add 1/2 tablespoon butter. Once melted and bubbling slightly, place two quesadillas in the pan, being careful not to overcrowd. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crisp, then carefully flip and cook the other side until equally golden and the cheese is completely melted.
- Rest and Slice:
- Transfer the cooked quesadillas to a cutting board and let them rest for exactly one minute. This brief rest allows the cheese to slightly set so it doesn't all ooze out when cutting. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice each semicircle into 3 wedges.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Arrange the quesadilla wedges on plates and top with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream, and lime wedges on the side for squeezing. The bright, fresh toppings balance the rich, savory quesadillas.
Save The chipotle peppers are truly the heart of this recipe. I discovered their transformative power years ago when trying to recreate a restaurant dish. Just one pepper adds complexity that would otherwise require dozens of ingredients. My son, who typically avoids spicy food, always makes an exception for these quesadillas, picking out the visible pepper pieces but enjoying the smoky flavor they impart.
Make Ahead Options
You can prepare the turkey cherry chipotle filling up to three days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve as they meld together overnight. When ready to eat, simply assemble and cook the quesadillas as directed. This makes weeknight dinners even faster and allows the spices to fully develop their flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken works beautifully in place of turkey with no other adjustments needed. For a vegetarian version, substitute 2 cups of black beans or crumbled extra firm tofu. If cherries are unavailable, cranberry sauce or chopped dried cranberries make excellent substitutes. For those sensitive to heat, bell pepper can replace the chipotle, though you will lose the signature smokiness. Consider adding a few drops of liquid smoke to compensate.
Serving Suggestions
These quesadillas pair wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside cilantro lime rice or Mexican street corn. A cold Mexican beer or a fruit forward sangria complements the sweet and spicy flavor profile beautifully. For a fun appetizer presentation, cut each quesadilla into smaller wedges and arrange on a platter with multiple dipping options.
Cherry Selection Tips
While this recipe calls for canned dark sweet cherries for convenience, you can elevate it further with fresh cherries when in season. Choose firm, plump cherries with shiny skin and green stems. Pit and quarter about 1 cup fresh cherries as a replacement. Frozen cherries also work well but should be thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture from making the quesadillas soggy.
Save These quesadillas are a delicious way to repurpose leftovers into a quick and exciting meal. The unique flavor combination ensures they'll be a hit with the whole family.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, shredded cooked chicken is a great alternative to turkey and pairs well with the cherry-chipotle flavors.
- → How do I get the cheese extra melty?
Use freshly shredded cheeses and cook the quesadillas over medium heat, allowing ample time for even melting.
- → What sides work well with these quesadilla melts?
Try pairing with a fresh green salad, tortilla chips, or a crisp Mexican lager for balance and crunch.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortillas to make the dish suitable for those avoiding wheat, and check ingredient labels for hidden gluten.
- → How can I increase the spicy heat?
Add an extra chipotle pepper or a splash of hot sauce to amp up the smoky, spicy flavor.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Assemble the quesadillas in advance and refrigerate. Cook just before serving for the crispiest results.