Chipotle Lime Shrimp Quesadilla Recipe – Mexican Special
If you’re craving a fresh, flavorful twist on a classic quesadilla, this Chipotle Lime Shrimp Quesadilla is the perfect choice. Juicy shrimp are marinated in a zesty blend of chipotle peppers and lime, bringing together smoky heat and bright citrus for an unforgettable flavor combo. Melted cheese and a crispy tortilla wrap everything up into a gooey, crunchy bite that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Serve it with your favorite toppings—like guacamole, sour cream, or fresh salsa—and watch this dish disappear fast!
- Prep Time15 min
- Cook Time15 min
- Total Time30 min
Chipotle Lime Shrimp Quesadilla Ingredients :
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced and zested
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- Butter or extra olive oil for cooking
How to make Chipotle Lime Shrimp Quesadilla :
Marinate the Shrimp:In a bowl, combine the chopped chipotle peppers, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp, toss to coat, and let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
Cook the Shrimp:Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and fully cooked. Remove from heat and roughly chop the shrimp into smaller pieces for the quesadilla filling.
Assemble the Quesadilla:Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese over half of the tortilla, then add a layer of shrimp. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro, if using, and add a bit more cheese on top of the shrimp. Fold the tortilla in half.
Cook the Quesadilla:Heat a clean skillet over medium heat. Add a little butter or olive oil, then place the folded quesadilla in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
Serve:Slice each quesadilla into wedges and serve with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa on the side.
Recipe Notes :
Chipotle Peppers: Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce can be quite spicy. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance, or omit for a milder flavor.
Cheese Choices: For best melting, use a combination of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese, or try pepper jack for extra spice.
Tortillas: Use large flour tortillas for ease of folding and stuffing, but you can also use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
Additional Toppings:Consider adding diced avocado, tomatoes, or even a drizzle of crema for extra flavor.
Lime Flavor: Adding lime zest in addition to lime juice enhances the citrus notes and balances the heat from the chipotle.
