Who doesn’t love a good chicken quesadilla? That crispy tortilla filled with melty cheese and seasoned chicken is already delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can transform your meal from good to absolutely amazing!
As someone who makes quesadillas at least twice a month for my family, I’ve experimented with tons of different side dishes. Some work better than others, and today I’m sharing my absolute favorites that’ll make your quesadilla night extra special.
Why Chicken Quesadillas Need Great Side Dishes
Chicken quesadillas are already packed with protein and cheesy goodness, but they benefit hugely from sides that add:
- Fresh, bright flavors to balance the richness
- Different textures (especially crunchy ones!)
- Additional nutrients to round out your meal
- Complementary Mexican-inspired flavors
So let’s dive into the best sides that’ll take your chicken quesadilla game to the next level!
Fresh and Zesty Side Dishes
1. Guacamole
Nothing complements chicken quesadillas better than a creamy, fresh guacamole. The rich avocado provides healthy fats while balancing the savory quesadilla flavors perfectly.
Quick Guacamole Recipe
- 2 ripe avocados, mashed
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 1 small tomato, diced (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix everything together and serve alongside your quesadillas for dipping The creamy texture and vibrant flavors make this a must-have pairing!
2. Fresh Pico De Gallo
Pico de gallo offers a zesty kick that cuts through the richness of cheesy quesadillas. The fresh tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime create a burst of flavor in every bite.
What I love about pico is how customizable it is – add jalapeños for extra heat or even mango for a sweet twist. Every time I serve this alongside quesadillas, the bowl gets emptied fast!
3. Mango Salsa
For something a bit different that still pairs amazingly, try mango salsa! The sweet and tangy tropical flavors provide an exciting contrast to savory chicken quesadillas.
Simple Mango Salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- Pinch of salt
This bright, colorful salsa not only tastes incredible but also looks beautiful on your table!
4. Tomato Avocado Salad
For a lighter side that still packs tons of flavor, a simple tomato avocado salad is perfect. The juicy tomatoes and creamy avocados with a zesty lime dressing complement quesadillas wonderfully.
We make this almost every time we have quesadillas because it adds fresh vegetables to the meal while enhancing the Mexican flavor profile.
Hearty Side Dishes
5. Black Bean Salad
A hearty black bean salad adds protein and fiber while complementing the Mexican flavors in your quesadillas.
Quick Black Bean Salad:
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 red onion, diced
- Handful of cilantro, chopped
- Lime juice and olive oil dressing
- Salt, cumin, and chili powder to taste
This colorful salad stands up well to the rich quesadillas and adds tons of nutrition to your meal.
6. Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
Elote is a flavor explosion that pairs wonderfully with chicken quesadillas. Grilled corn slathered with mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice creates an unforgettable side dish.
My kids absolutely go crazy for this corn! The combination of sweet, creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors makes it the perfect complement to quesadillas.
7. Cilantro Lime Rice
A bright, fluffy cilantro lime rice adds substance to your meal while complementing the flavors in your quesadillas.
Simple Cilantro Lime Rice:
- 1 cup white rice, cooked
- Zest and juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
The zesty lime and fresh cilantro brighten up the rice, making it the perfect bed for serving your quesadillas on top.
8. Refried Beans
Refried beans offer a traditional pairing that adds protein and creates that authentic Mexican restaurant experience at home. Whether homemade or from a can (doctored up with some spices), they’re a filling addition that complements quesadillas perfectly.
I like to top mine with a little cheese and serve them alongside quesadillas for a complete meal that satisfies everyone.
Crunchy Side Dishes
9. Tortilla Chips
Sometimes the simplest sides are the best! Crispy tortilla chips provide the perfect crunchy contrast to soft quesadillas. They’re also great for scooping up any guacamole, salsa, or other dips you’re serving.
Pro tip: warm your tortilla chips in the oven for a few minutes before serving – makes a huge difference!
10. Jalapeño Poppers
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, jalapeño poppers make an excellent side for chicken quesadillas. The spicy jalapeños stuffed with cream cheese and cheddar provide a delicious contrast.
These are always the first thing to disappear when I serve them – the combination of creamy, spicy, and crunchy textures alongside quesadillas is simply irresistible.
11. Spicy Coleslaw
A crunchy, spicy coleslaw adds both texture and vibrant flavor to complement your quesadillas. The crisp cabbage with a zesty, spicy dressing cuts through the richness of the cheese.
Quick Spicy Slaw:
- 4 cups shredded cabbage mix
- 2 tablespoons mayo
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
This refreshing side brings a welcome crunch and zip to your quesadilla meal!
Sweet Additions
12. Cornbread
For a slightly sweet side that pairs surprisingly well with chicken quesadillas, try cornbread! The subtle sweetness and crumbly texture complement the savory quesadillas beautifully.
I love making jalapeño cornbread to add a bit of heat that ties it more closely to the Mexican flavors of the quesadillas.
Saucy Sides
13. Spicy Salsa Verde
A tangy, spicy salsa verde made from tomatillos adds bright flavor that cuts through the richness of cheese quesadillas. Whether store-bought or homemade, this green sauce is a fantastic accompaniment.
We always have a jar in our fridge because it pairs so well with quesadillas and many other Mexican dishes!
14. Chipotle Mayo or Sriracha Aioli
A creamy, spicy sauce like chipotle mayo or sriracha aioli makes a wonderful dipping option for chicken quesadillas. The smoky heat and creaminess enhance every bite.
Quick Chipotle Mayo:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1-2 tablespoons adobo sauce from canned chipotles
- Squeeze of lime juice
- Pinch of salt
This takes literally 2 minutes to make but adds so much flavor to your quesadillas!
15. Greek Yogurt Buffalo Sauce
For a healthier but equally delicious option, try Greek yogurt buffalo sauce. It provides a tangy, spicy kick with less fat than traditional buffalo sauce.
This is a newer addition to our quesadilla nights, but it’s quickly become a family favorite. The cooling yogurt with the kick of buffalo sauce works amazingly well with chicken quesadillas.
Refreshing Drinks to Serve with Chicken Quesadillas
Don’t forget about beverages! The right drink can elevate your quesadilla experience even further:
- Spicy Mango Margaritas – The sweet-spicy combo pairs amazingly with quesadillas
- Grapefruit Palomas – Refreshing and not too sweet
- Frozen Strawberry Jalapeño Margaritas – For a fun twist on a classic
- Agua Fresca – A light, fruit-infused water that’s perfect for family meals
Tips for Creating the Perfect Chicken Quesadilla Meal
- Balance your flavors – Include something fresh, something creamy, and something with a bit of acid
- Consider textures – Add crunchy elements to contrast with the soft quesadillas
- Keep it colorful – Bright, vibrant sides make the meal more appealing
- Prep ahead – Many of these sides can be made in advance so you’re not overwhelmed at mealtime
- Don’t overdo it – Pick 2-3 sides maximum to avoid food waste
Final Thoughts
Chicken quesadillas are a fantastic meal on their own, but these sides will transform them into a feast that’ll impress family and friends alike. My personal favorite combo is guacamole, black bean salad, and chipotle mayo – the perfect balance of fresh, hearty, and creamy!
What are your go-to sides for chicken quesadillas? I’d love to hear your favorites in the comments!
Remember, these pairings aren’t just about adding more food to your plate – they’re about creating a balanced, satisfying meal that hits all the right notes of flavor and texture. Enjoy experimenting with these combinations to find your perfect quesadilla meal!
Dip and sauce pairings
Dip or sauce makes quesadillas even more delicious. And, you can make a double batch of sauce for other meals during the week. Here are some of the best dips and sauces to serve with quesadillas.
1 Spicy Mango Margaritas
The Perfect Quesadilla | Steak or Chicken
FAQ
What to serve with a quesadilla?
Place the triangles on a tray along with a few dishes of sour cream or guacamole. It is the perfect food to share. A quesadilla is quite filling in itself. However, there are plenty of options and recipes that you can prepare to serve with quesadillas. Side dishes can help make your dinner complete!
What goes well with chicken quesadillas?
Salsa is a classic choice that goes well with almost any Mexican inspired dinner but pairs exceptionally well with any chicken quesadilla sides you’re thinking of making.
Does chicken paprikash go with quesadillas?
While chicken paprikash pairs well with traditional sides like rice or noodles, the same side dishes may not be suitable for chicken quesadillas. Opt for lighter, fresh options like a side salad or vegetable medley to complement the Mexican flavors of chicken quesadillas.
Does guacamole go with quesadillas?
Not only is guacamole an authentic Mexican favorite for many, but it also pairs perfectly as an accompaniment to quesadillas. You can spread guacamole over your quesadillas, sandwich it inside, or serve it as a perfect side dish, paired with some crunchy tortilla chips.
What kind of Soup Goes with chicken quesadillas?
This soup is smoky, cheesy, and incredibly delicious: the Creamy Poblano Pepper Soup. When served alongside chicken quesadillas, the velvety soup provides a welcome contrast to the delicious crunch of the quesadillas. Ingredients include: Poblano peppers, butter, cilantro, Mexican queso, and cornstarch. 151. Five-Alarm Chili
What is a good sauce for chicken quesadillas?
This verdant Chimichurri Sauce recipe is another great way to take your chicken quesadillas to new heights. The sauce offers a burst of robust flavor thanks to the combination of fresh parsley and cilantro. Ingredients include: Parsley, cilantro, shallot, red sweet pepper, garlic cloves, and red pepper flakes. 50. Calabacitas Con Queso
What can I add to chicken quesadillas?
A basic chicken quesadilla includes flour tortillas, shredded cooked chicken, and a blend of meltable cheeses like Monterey Jack and Cheddar. Common additions to the filling are sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and corn, along with spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. You can also serve it with accompaniments like salsa, sour cream, and guacamole.
How are quesadillas traditionally served?
Original Mexican quesadilla
They are usually cooked without the addition of any oil. Often the quesadillas are served with green or red salsa, and guacamole. While Oaxaca (or string) cheese is the most common filling, other ingredients are also used in addition to the cheese.
What is a dirty quesadilla?
What does ‘Make it Dirty’ mean? At Plomo Quesadilla Bar, “Make it Dirty” likely refers to adding a cheese crust on the outside of your quesadilla to take it to the next level.
What vegetables can go in a quesadilla?
Fresh summer vegetables such as red bell pepper, zucchini, and yellow squash are the stars of this simple quesadilla recipe. It’s good as-is, but is also a nice base for customizing. Creator Jennifer Baker encourages adding any vegetable you like, especially if it’s fresh.