Chilaquiles is a traditional Mexican dish that transforms everyday ingredients into a vibrant and hearty meal. This comforting recipe is perfect for breakfast or brunch, featuring crispy tortilla chips smothered in a zesty red or green salsa and topped with fresh ingredients like cheese, onions, and cilantro. The beauty of chilaquiles lies in their versatility – you can add shredded chicken, a fried egg, or even avocado slices to customize it to your liking.

See our Delicious Enchiladas Verdes Recipe

Preparing chilaquiles is straightforward yet rewarding, as the blend of textures and flavors creates a satisfying and memorable dish. The crispy tortillas soak up the rich salsa, creating a delightful contrast with the creamy toppings. Whether you’re looking to use leftover tortillas or craving a taste of Mexico, chilaquiles offer a delicious and authentic experience that will surely become a favorite in your household.

Chilaquiles Recipe

Recipe by Owais

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Total time

35

minutes

Ingredients:

• 8 corn tortillas, cut into wedges

• 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

• 2 cups red or green salsa

• 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese

• 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema

• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

• 2 avocados, sliced (optional)

• 1 cup shredded cooked chicken (optional)

• 4 eggs, fried or scrambled (optional)

• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

• Prepare the Tortilla Chips:
• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Fry the tortilla wedges in batches until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
• Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Lightly salt the chips.
• Prepare the Salsa:
• If using store-bought salsa, warm it in a saucepan over medium heat. If making homemade salsa, blend your desired ingredients (tomatoes, tomatillos, chillies, garlic, onions, etc.) and simmer until slightly thickened.
• Combine Chips and Salsa:
• Reduce the heat to low. Add the fried tortilla chips to the skillet with the warm salsa. Stir gently to coat the chips in salsa, cooking until the chips are slightly softened but not mushy, about 3-5 minutes.
• Assemble and Serve:
• Transfer the chilaquiles to serving plates. Top with crumbled queso fresco, a drizzle of sour cream, sliced red onions, and chopped cilantro.
• Add optional toppings like avocado slices, shredded chicken, or fried eggs.
• Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy!

Notes

• For a healthier version, bake the tortilla chips instead of frying them
• Feel free to adjust the heat level of the salsa according to your preference by adding more or fewer chilies.
• Depending on your taste, chilaquiles can be made with either red salsa (salsa roja) or green salsa (salsa verde).

Ideas for Serving

Chilaquiles can be served with a variety of accompaniments to enhance the dish:

• Top with a fried or poached egg for extra richness.
• Serve alongside refried beans and rice for a hearty meal.
• Pair with a fresh fruit salad or a side of guacamole.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 400
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 700mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 40g
• Dietary Fiber: 5g
• Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 12g

History

Chilaquiles has its roots in Mexican cuisine and is traditionally known as a way to use up stale tortillas. The word “chilaquiles” comes from the Nahuatl language, meaning “chilis and greens.” It was a common dish among indigenous people and has evolved, incorporating various regional ingredients and flavours. Today, chilaquiles remain a beloved comfort food across Mexico and are celebrated for their simplicity and versatility.

FAQs

Q: Can I use store-bought tortilla chips instead of frying my tortillas?

A: Yes, store-bought tortilla chips can be used as a shortcut. However, frying your tortillas gives a more authentic texture and flavour.

Q: Can chilaquiles be made ahead of time?

A: Chilaquiles are best served fresh to maintain the crispiness of the tortillas. If you need to prepare ahead, keep the sauce and tortillas separate and combine just before serving.

Q: What can I use instead of tomatillo salsa?

A: You can use red salsa, enchilada sauce, or even mole sauce for a different flavour profile.

Q: Are chilaquiles gluten-free?

A: Yes, if you use corn tortillas and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free, chilaquiles can be enjoyed by those with gluten sensitivities.

Q: How can I make chilaquiles spicier?

A: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. You can also use a spicier salsa.

Q: Can I make chilaquiles vegetarian?

A: Absolutely. Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Q: What other toppings can I use?

A: You can add ingredients like black beans, chorizo, scrambled eggs, or grilled vegetables for variety.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store leftover chilaquiles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet to restore some of the crispiness.