Egg-Encased Chicken Quesadilla Bake

1.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x9-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil.

2.Prepare the chicken: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mix evenly over the chicken breasts.

3.Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes, then dice into bite-sized pieces.

4.In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Sauté the diced red bell pepper and chopped red onion over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until softened.

5.Add the sweet corn kernels and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is heated through and the tomatoes have softened slightly. Remove from heat and stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro if using.

6.In a medium bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.

7.To assemble the bake: Place one homemade tortilla flat in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread half of the sautéed vegetable mixture evenly over the tortilla, then sprinkle half of the diced chicken and a third of the shredded cheeses over the vegetables.

8.Place a second tortilla on top and repeat the layering with the remaining vegetables, chicken, and another third of the cheese.

9.Top with the final tortilla. Pour the beaten eggs evenly over the entire layered quesadilla stack, allowing the eggs to seep into the edges and between layers.

10.Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top.

11.Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and golden on top.

12.Remove from the oven and let the bake rest for 5 minutes before slicing into squares.

13.Serve warm, garnished with additional fresh cilantro if desired.