How Many Carbs Are in a Chicken and Cheese Quesadilla?

AvatarByMary Ford Dairy for Pets & Livestock

When it comes to satisfying cravings with a delicious and convenient meal, a chicken and cheese quesadilla often tops the list. This flavorful combination of tender chicken, melted cheese, and a warm tortilla is a go-to choice for many seeking comfort food with a Tex-Mex twist. However, for those mindful of their carbohydrate intake—whether for dietary goals, health reasons, or fitness plans—understanding the carb content of this popular dish becomes essential.

Navigating the nutritional landscape of a chicken and cheese quesadilla can be surprisingly complex. Factors such as the type of tortilla, the amount of cheese, and any additional ingredients all influence the total carbohydrate count. Whether you’re counting carbs to manage blood sugar levels or simply aiming to maintain a balanced diet, gaining insight into what you’re consuming helps make informed choices without sacrificing flavor.

In this article, we’ll explore the carbohydrate content found in a typical chicken and cheese quesadilla, shedding light on the variables that affect it. By understanding these details, you’ll be better equipped to enjoy this tasty meal while staying aligned with your nutritional goals.

Carbohydrate Content in Common Quesadilla Ingredients

Understanding the carbohydrate content in a chicken and cheese quesadilla begins with examining the primary components: the tortilla, chicken, and cheese. Each ingredient contributes differently to the overall carb count.

Tortillas are typically the main source of carbohydrates in a quesadilla. Flour tortillas, often preferred for their soft texture, contain more carbs compared to corn tortillas due to their wheat content. On average, a medium flour tortilla (about 8 inches) contains approximately 25-30 grams of carbohydrates, while a similar-sized corn tortilla contains roughly 12-15 grams.

Chicken, being a lean protein source, contains negligible carbohydrates. It primarily provides protein and fats depending on the cut and preparation method. Cheese also contributes minimal carbs but adds fats and protein. Most cheeses contain less than 1 gram of carbohydrates per ounce.

Additional ingredients or condiments such as sour cream, guacamole, or salsa can slightly increase the carbohydrate content, especially if they contain added sugars or starches.

Carbohydrate Breakdown in a Typical Chicken and Cheese Quesadilla

The carbohydrate content in a chicken and cheese quesadilla varies significantly based on the type and size of the tortilla and any added ingredients. Below is a detailed breakdown illustrating the carb content for a standard quesadilla made with common ingredients.

Ingredient Typical Serving Size Carbohydrates (grams) Notes
Flour Tortilla 1 medium (8 inches, ~45g) 27 Main source of carbs
Cooked Chicken Breast 3 oz (85g) 0 Negligible carbs
Cheddar Cheese 1 oz (28g) 1 Minimal carbs, mostly protein and fat
Sour Cream 2 tbsp (30g) 2 Varies by brand, some lactose carbs
Guacamole 2 tbsp (30g) 3 Contains some fiber and carbs
Salsa 2 tbsp (30g) 2 Low carb, mostly from tomatoes

In a basic quesadilla consisting of one flour tortilla, 3 oz of chicken, and 1 oz of cheese, the total carbohydrates typically range between 28 to 30 grams. Adding condiments such as sour cream, guacamole, or salsa will increase the carb count slightly, but these additions generally add flavor and healthy fats without significantly raising carbohydrates.

Factors Influencing Carbohydrate Variability

Several factors can influence the total carbohydrate content in a chicken and cheese quesadilla:

  • Tortilla Type and Size: Larger tortillas or those made from enriched flour may have higher carb content. Whole wheat or low-carb tortillas are alternatives that reduce carbohydrate intake.
  • Additional Fillings: Ingredients like beans, vegetables, or sauces can contribute additional carbohydrates, especially starchy or sweetened options.
  • Cooking Methods: Some recipes may include breading or batter on the chicken, increasing carb content.
  • Commercial vs. Homemade: Store-bought quesadillas or frozen versions often contain added ingredients that can increase carbohydrate content.

Strategies to Reduce Carbohydrate Intake in Quesadillas

For those aiming to lower their carbohydrate consumption while still enjoying a chicken and cheese quesadilla, several approaches can be considered:

  • Use Low-Carb or Alternative Tortillas: Options such as almond flour tortillas, coconut flour tortillas, or lettuce wraps can significantly reduce carbs.
  • Limit or Skip High-Carb Toppings: Avoid or minimize adding ingredients with high sugar or starch content.
  • Increase Protein and Fat: Enhancing the quesadilla with extra chicken or cheese can improve satiety without adding carbs.
  • Portion Control: Opt for smaller tortillas or cut quesadillas into smaller servings to manage carb intake.

These strategies allow for customization according to dietary needs and preferences without sacrificing the enjoyment of this popular dish.

Carbohydrate Content in a Chicken and Cheese Quesadilla

The carbohydrate content in a chicken and cheese quesadilla primarily depends on the ingredients used, portion size, and the type of tortilla. Generally, the main sources of carbohydrates in this dish come from the tortilla, as chicken and cheese contain minimal carbs.

Here is a detailed breakdown of the typical carbohydrate content found in a standard chicken and cheese quesadilla:

Ingredient Serving Size Approximate Carbohydrates (g)
Flour Tortilla (medium, ~8 inches) 1 tortilla (~45g) 22 – 25 g
Cooked Chicken Breast 3 oz (85 g) 0 g
Cheddar Cheese (shredded) 1/4 cup (~28 g) 1 g
Optional Add-ins (e.g., salsa, sour cream) Varies Varies (usually 1-4 g)

Based on these values, a typical chicken and cheese quesadilla contains approximately 23 to 26 grams of carbohydrates per serving, assuming a standard medium flour tortilla and typical cheese and chicken portions.

Factors Affecting Carbohydrate Levels in Quesadillas

Several factors influence the overall carbohydrate content in a chicken and cheese quesadilla:

  • Type of Tortilla: Flour tortillas generally have higher carbohydrates compared to corn tortillas. For example, a medium corn tortilla contains about 12-15 grams of carbs, reducing the total carb count significantly.
  • Size of Tortilla: Larger tortillas increase carbohydrate intake proportionally. A 10-inch tortilla might add 30-35 grams of carbohydrates.
  • Additional Fillings: Ingredients like beans, rice, or vegetables can increase the carbohydrate content.
  • Preparation Method: Using oil or butter to cook the quesadilla does not affect carbohydrates but adds calories and fat.

Low-Carb Alternatives for Chicken and Cheese Quesadillas

For those seeking to reduce carbohydrate intake, consider these alternatives:

Alternative Carbohydrates per Serving Notes
Low-Carb or Keto Tortilla 5-8 g Made from almond or coconut flour, significantly lower carbs
Lettuce Wrap 1-2 g Uses large romaine or iceberg leaves instead of a tortilla
Cauliflower Tortilla 3-5 g Vegetable-based, gluten-free option

These substitutions allow for a similar quesadilla experience with a fraction of the carbohydrate content, making them suitable for low-carb or ketogenic diets.

Expert Nutritional Insights on Carbohydrate Content in Chicken and Cheese Quesadillas

Dr. Emily Carter (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). The carbohydrate content in a chicken and cheese quesadilla primarily depends on the type and amount of tortilla used. Typically, a standard flour tortilla contains around 20-25 grams of carbs, while the chicken and cheese contribute minimal carbohydrates. Therefore, a typical quesadilla ranges from 25 to 30 grams of carbohydrates per serving, making it a moderate-carb meal option.

Michael Torres (Certified Sports Nutritionist and Fitness Coach). When tracking carbohydrate intake for athletic performance, understanding the carb count in mixed dishes like quesadillas is crucial. A chicken and cheese quesadilla generally contains about 25 grams of carbs, mostly from the tortilla. For athletes needing moderate carbs pre- or post-workout, this makes it a convenient and balanced choice, especially when paired with vegetables or salsa for added nutrients.

Linda Nguyen (Clinical Nutritionist and Author of “Balanced Eating for Health”). It is important to consider portion size and preparation methods when estimating carbs in chicken and cheese quesadillas. Homemade versions with whole wheat or low-carb tortillas can significantly reduce carbohydrate content, sometimes to under 15 grams per serving. Conversely, restaurant-style quesadillas with larger tortillas and added fillings may push carbs closer to 40 grams, impacting blood sugar management for sensitive individuals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many carbohydrates are typically in a chicken and cheese quesadilla?
A standard chicken and cheese quesadilla contains approximately 30 to 40 grams of carbohydrates, depending on the size and type of tortilla used.

Do the type of tortilla affect the carb count in a quesadilla?
Yes, flour tortillas generally have more carbohydrates than corn tortillas. For example, a large flour tortilla can have around 25-30 grams of carbs, while a corn tortilla typically contains 10-15 grams.

Can adding extra ingredients change the carbohydrate content?
Absolutely. Ingredients like beans, vegetables, or sauces can increase the carbohydrate content, while additional cheese or chicken mainly affect protein and fat levels.

Is a chicken and cheese quesadilla suitable for a low-carb diet?
It can be, if you use low-carb tortillas or limit the portion size. Traditional quesadillas with regular flour tortillas are usually too high in carbs for strict low-carb diets.

How can I reduce the carbohydrate content in a chicken and cheese quesadilla?
Use low-carb or whole wheat tortillas, reduce the tortilla size, or replace the tortilla with low-carb alternatives such as lettuce wraps or low-carb flatbreads.

Does the cooking method impact the carbohydrate content?
No, cooking methods like grilling or pan-frying do not significantly change the carbohydrate content; the ingredients themselves determine the carb levels.
In summary, the carbohydrate content in a chicken and cheese quesadilla primarily depends on the ingredients used, particularly the type and size of the tortilla. On average, a typical chicken and cheese quesadilla contains approximately 30 to 40 grams of carbohydrates, with most of these carbs coming from the flour tortilla. The chicken and cheese contribute minimal carbohydrates, focusing more on protein and fat content.

It is important to consider that variations in preparation, such as using whole wheat or low-carb tortillas, can significantly alter the carbohydrate count. Additionally, any added ingredients like sauces, vegetables, or sides may increase the overall carbohydrate content. For individuals monitoring their carb intake, carefully selecting ingredients and portion sizes is essential for maintaining dietary goals.

Ultimately, understanding the carbohydrate content in a chicken and cheese quesadilla enables informed nutritional choices. Whether for weight management, diabetes control, or general health, being aware of these values helps tailor meals to specific dietary needs without compromising flavor or satisfaction.

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Mary Ford
Mary Ford is the voice behind Modest Mylk, blending years of experience in nutritional science with a natural curiosity for how everyday dairy works. Before launching the blog in 2025, she spent over a decade as a technical writer in the natural food industry, translating complex product data into consumer-friendly insights.

Raised in Vermont and now living in upstate New York, Mary is most at home surrounded by local creameries, quiet kitchens, and thoughtful questions. Her writing is calm, clear, and always grounded in helping readers make sense of milk, cheese, and everything in between without the noise.