Classic Mexican Comfort Food, Perfect for Breakfast or Brunch
Chilaquiles is a traditional Mexican dish made from crispy tortilla chips simmered in a flavorful sauce, typically red or green, and topped with an array of delicious ingredients like cheese, avocado, sour cream, and eggs. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking to use up leftovers, this recipe is versatile and easy to make from scratch.
Chilaquiles are often served during breakfast or brunch, making them perfect for casual weekend gatherings or celebratory brunches. It’s also great for festive occasions like Cinco de Mayo or family gatherings where you want a simple yet satisfying meal.
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How to Make From Scratch Chilaquiles:
- Start by frying or baking corn tortillas until crispy to create tortilla chips.
- Prepare your red (tomato-based) or green (tomatillo-based) sauce.
- Simmer the chips in the sauce until they soften slightly but still retain some crunch.
- Top with your favourite ingredients, such as crumbled cheese, fried eggs, avocado, and sour cream.
When to Flip Chilaquiles:
Chilaquiles don’t require flipping but ensure you gently stir the chips when simmering them in the sauce to coat them evenly without making them too soggy.
How to Reheat Chilaquiles:
To reheat chilaquiles, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or warm them in a skillet on the stovetop over low heat. Reheating in the oven helps to retain some of the crispiness.
Can You Save Batter Chilaquiles?
Chilaquiles don’t have batter, but you can store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The tortilla chips are best served fresh, but you can store them separately and assemble the dish later.
Can You Freeze Chilaquiles?
You can freeze the sauce for up to 3 months, but it’s best to make the tortilla chips fresh or use store-bought chips when you’re ready to serve. Avoid freezing the assembled chilaquiles, as the chips’ texture will become too soggy when thawed.
Ingredients:
- 12 corn tortillas (cut into triangles)
- 1 cup red or green sauce (salsa roja or salsa verde)
- ½ cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
- 2 large eggs (optional, fried for serving)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- ¼ cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Prepare the Tortillas: If using fresh tortillas, cut them into triangles. Heat oil in a skillet and fry the tortilla triangles until crispy, then drain them on paper towels. Alternatively, bake the tortillas in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Make the Sauce: Heat your chosen red or green sauce in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Simmer the Chips: Add the crispy tortilla chips to the skillet with the sauce. Stir gently to coat the chips in the sauce, then simmer for 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly but still hold some crunch.
- Assemble: Serve the chilaquiles immediately, topped with crumbled cheese, fried eggs (optional), avocado slices, sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
- Serve: Enjoy your chilaquiles with additional toppings like pickled onions, jalapeños, or shredded chicken.
Editor’s Note:
Chilaquiles are an incredibly adaptable dish. You can serve it with scrambled or fried eggs for breakfast, or add shredded chicken or steak for a more hearty meal. Don’t let your chips get too soggy; the best chilaquiles retain a little crunch!
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 38g
- Protein: 12g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 2g
Chilaquiles Easy Recipes
Ingredients
- 12 corn tortillas (cut into triangles)
- 1 cup red or green sauce (salsa roja or salsa verde)
- ½ cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
- 2 large eggs (optional, fried for serving)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- ¼ cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)