Randy Chandler
Chicken and cheese quesadillas are a delicious meal, but how many calories do they contain? Well, it depends. The calorie count varies depending on the recipe, brand, and size of the quesadilla. On average, a chicken quesadilla from a fast-food restaurant contains around 500 to 529 calories, while a standard steak or chicken quesadilla from Taco Bell starts at 500 calories. To reduce the calorie count, you can opt for a smaller quesadilla, use low-fat cheese and lean meat, or add vegetables in place of some of the chicken and cheese.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories | 490-529 |
| Protein | 27+ grams |
| Fat | 27+ grams |
| Carbohydrates | 43 grams |
| Fiber | 3+ grams |
| Sugar | 3+ grams |
| Sodium | 1340 milligrams |
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What You'll Learn
Calorie counts vary by brand and recipe
The calorie count of a chicken and cheese quesadilla varies depending on the recipe, the brand, and the size of the quesadilla. A chicken quesadilla is typically made with shredded chicken, flour tortillas, shredded cheese, onions, salsa, and spices. The calorie count will depend on the specific quantities of these ingredients used, as well as any additional ingredients or toppings.
For example, a standard chicken quesadilla from Taco Bell starts at 500 calories, while their Shredded Chicken Mini Quesadilla contains just 200 calories. The Wawa chicken and cheese quesadilla, which includes a packet of sour cream, contains 490 calories. Evol's Chipotle Chicken Quesadillas, which come with a guacamole pouch, contain 300 calories per serving, with a serving size of 128 grams.
The size of the quesadilla also affects the calorie count. A large, 8- to 10-inch diameter cheese quesadilla from a restaurant can contain up to 714 calories, while a smaller, 5- to 6-inch diameter quesadilla typically contains around 342 calories.
In general, chicken quesadillas are high in calories. The average chicken quesadilla from a fast-food restaurant contains around 529 calories in a serving size of 180 grams. This calorie count can be reduced by substituting some of the chicken and cheese with vegetables, using low-fat cheese and lean meat, and cooking with minimal butter. Checking the nutrition label or speaking to restaurant staff can provide more accurate calorie information for specific quesadilla options.
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Calories depend on quesadilla size
The calorie count of a chicken and cheese quesadilla depends on several factors, including the size of the quesadilla, the recipe used, and the brand or restaurant from which it is purchased.
A standard chicken quesadilla from a fast-food restaurant typically contains around 529 calories per serving (180 grams). However, calorie counts can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes. For example, a chicken and cheese quesadilla from Wawa contains 490 calories, while a steak or chicken quesadilla from Taco Bell starts at 500 calories.
The size of the quesadilla also plays a significant role in determining its calorie content. A larger, 8- to 10-inch diameter cheese quesadilla from a restaurant can contain up to 714 calories, while a smaller, 5- to 6-inch diameter quesadilla from the same restaurant may contain only 342 calories. Similarly, Evol's Chipotle Chicken Quesadillas, which come in a single serving of 128 grams, contain 300 calories.
It's worth noting that the calorie count can be reduced by making some ingredient substitutions. Using low-fat cheese, lean meat with trimmed fat, and adding low-calorie vegetables like peppers and spinach can help lower the calorie content. Additionally, cooking with minimal butter can also make a difference.
In summary, the calorie count of a chicken and cheese quesadilla can range widely depending on its size, the ingredients used, and the portion sizes. Checking the nutrition label or online information provided by restaurants can give a more accurate estimate of the calorie content for specific quesadilla options.
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Chicken and cheese quesadillas are high-calorie
The calorie count for chicken and cheese quesadillas at Taco Bell starts at 500 calories, while their steak quesadilla option begins at the same calorie count. However, if you're looking for a lower-calorie option, Taco Bell also offers a Shredded Chicken Mini Quesadilla, which contains only 200 calories.
The calorie count for a chicken and cheese quesadilla can be influenced by the size of the quesadilla. For example, an 8- to 10-inch diameter cheese quesadilla from a restaurant can contain up to 714 calories, while a smaller, 5- to 6-inch diameter option has approximately 342 calories.
Additionally, the calorie count can be affected by the ingredients used. Using low-fat cheese, lean meat with trimmed fat, and adding vegetables can help reduce the overall calorie content. For instance, Evol's Chipotle Chicken Quesadillas, which include guacamole, have 300 calories per serving.
It's important to note that the calorie count for chicken and cheese quesadillas can vary significantly, and it's always a good idea to check the nutrition label or ask the restaurant for specific information.
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Reduce calories with low-fat cheese and lean meat
The calorie count of a chicken and cheese quesadilla varies depending on its size and the ingredients used. A chicken and cheese quesadilla from a fast-food restaurant is estimated by the USDA to contain 529 calories, while an 8- to 10-inch diameter restaurant quesadilla can contain up to 714 calories.
To reduce the calorie count of chicken and cheese quesadillas, one effective strategy is to opt for low-fat cheese. Cheese is calorie-dense, so choosing low-calorie alternatives, such as fat-free cheese or cheese alternatives like Parmesan, can significantly reduce the overall calorie content. For instance, EatLean cheese is praised for its low-calorie content and high protein levels, making it a great option for quesadillas.
In addition to using low-fat cheese, another strategy to reduce calories is to select lean meat. Chicken breast, for example, is a good choice as it is lower in fat compared to other meats. When preparing the chicken, trim away any visible fat to further reduce the calorie content. Ground chicken or turkey are also lean options that can be enhanced with spices and seasonings to boost flavor.
To further decrease the calorie count, consider using low-carb or whole-grain tortillas. Carb Counter or Xtreme Wellness tortillas are examples of low-carb options that can be sprayed with cooking spray or butter spray to reduce additional fats during cooking. Additionally, being mindful of portion size is crucial. A single serving of a chicken and cheese quesadilla is typically around 128 grams, but the calorie count can quickly add up if you consume multiple servings.
Lastly, bulk up your quesadillas with low-calorie vegetables. Peppers, spinach, onions, mushrooms, zucchini, and tomatoes are excellent choices as they add volume and nutrients while keeping the calorie count low. These vegetables can be cooked in a pan with a small amount of oil or cooking spray until tender, and then added to your quesadilla filling.
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Check nutrition labels for accurate calorie counts
The calorie count of a chicken and cheese quesadilla varies depending on its size and the ingredients used. For example, an 8- to 10-inch restaurant quesadilla has 714 calories, while a smaller 5- to 6-inch quesadilla has 342 calories. At Taco Bell, a standard steak or chicken quesadilla has 500 calories, while a cheese quesadilla has 450 calories.
When making quesadillas at home, you can reduce the calorie count and increase their nutritional value by using whole-grain tortillas, low-fat cheese, lean meat, and low-calorie vegetables. Cooking with minimal butter can also help lower the calorie count.
To accurately determine the calorie content of store-bought or frozen quesadillas, it is essential to check the nutrition facts label. This label provides detailed information about the calorie count and the nutritional composition of the product. By reviewing the nutrition label, you can make informed choices about the food you consume and ensure you are aware of the calorie content of each serving.
Nutrition labels typically include information about serving sizes, which is crucial for understanding the calorie content of the food. Serving sizes can vary, and it is important to note that the calorie count listed on the label may correspond to a smaller portion than you intend to consume. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to the serving size indicated on the label to accurately assess the calorie intake per serving.
Additionally, nutrition labels provide a breakdown of the different nutrients present in the food item. This includes information about the amounts of protein, fat, carbohydrates, fiber, sugar, and sodium per serving. By examining these nutrient values, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of the nutritional composition of the quesadilla and make more informed dietary choices.
In summary, checking nutrition labels is crucial for obtaining accurate calorie counts and detailed nutritional information about store-bought chicken and cheese quesadillas. By reviewing the serving sizes, calorie content, and nutrient breakdown on the label, you can make well-informed decisions about your food choices and ensure you are aware of the nutritional value of the products you consume.
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Frequently asked questions
A chicken quesadilla from Taco Bell starts at 500 calories per serving.
A chicken and cheese quesadilla from Wawa contains 490 calories (without toppings and with one packet of sour cream).
The average chicken quesadilla from a fast-food restaurant contains 529 calories in a serving size of 180 grams.
