Mexican chilaquiles are, as their name suggests, a traditional Mexican dish that consists mainly of corn tortillas cut into pieces and fried, then mixed with various sauces such as red or green salsa. They are served with ingredients like shredded chicken, onion, cheese, cream, avocado, and eggs.
They are a very popular dish in Mexico and other countries where the recipe has spread. It’s simple, inexpensive, and perfect for sharing with family or friends at lunch or dinner. In this article, we’ll tell you everything about Mexican chilaquiles.
Origin of Chilaquiles
Chilaquiles are a traditional Mexican dish with roots that go back to pre-Hispanic times.
It is believed they originated in Mesoamerican indigenous cuisine, where ingredients such as corn tortillas and chilies were staple foods in the diet of cultures like the Aztecs and the Mayans.
The term “chilaquiles” comes from Nahuatl, one of the indigenous languages spoken in Mexico before the arrival of the Spanish. The word is derived from:
- chīlāquilitl – meaning “chili herb or tender plant”
- atli – meaning “water”
Over time, chilaquiles have become a widely loved dish in Mexico and have been adapted in different regions, creating variations in ingredients and preparation.
How to make Mexican chilaquiles?
50 min
440 kcal
Learn how to prepare chilaquiles step by step. An ideal recipe for using up leftover corn tortillas, often eaten for breakfast.
Recipe details
- Dish: Chicken
- Kitchen: Mexican
- Keyword: Breakfast, Traditional Recipe
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
- Portions: 3
- Calories: 440 kcal
- Author: Fatima
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Corn tortillas | 10 pieces |
| Chicken breast | 1 clean, defatted piece |
| Red sauce | 2 cups |
| White onion | 1 piece |
| Heavy cream | 1/3 cup |
| Cheese (cotija or feta) | 1 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Ground black pepper | To taste |
| Vegetable oil (canola, corn, or sunflower) | As needed |
| Water | As needed |
| Cilantro (finely chopped) | 1/2 cup |
Nutritional facts
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 440 kcal |
| Servings | 3 portions |
| Total time | 50 minutes |
Step-by-step preparation
- Cook the chicken breast in hot water with a little salt and pepper for about 20 minutes, until the meat loses its reddish hue.
- While the chicken cooks, cut the tortillas into strips or triangles.
- Fry the tortilla pieces in oil until golden and crispy.
- Remove and place them on absorbent paper to eliminate excess oil.
- Shred the cooked chicken using two forks and set aside.
- Heat the salsa in a saucepan. If needed, add a little water to thin it slightly without losing flavor. Adjust salt and pepper.
- Slice the onion into thin rings and separate them.
- Add the shredded chicken and fried tortillas to the sauce. Mix quickly so they are coated but still slightly crispy.
- Serve immediately using a ladle.
- Decorate each portion with:
- Cream
- Chopped cilantro
- Grated or crumbled cheese
- Finish with thin onion rings on top.
Serve immediately.
Video Guide 📺
What to serve with Mexican chilaquiles?
Chilaquiles are a hearty breakfast that is perfect for sharing. You can make them even richer by adding:
- Slices of cooked chicken
- A fried or baked egg
Both options add extra flavor and make the dish more filling.
FAQs
What are chilaquiles made of?
Chilaquiles are mainly made from fried corn tortillas mixed with salsa and topped with ingredients like chicken, cheese, cream, and onions.
Are chilaquiles eaten for breakfast or dinner?
They are commonly eaten as a breakfast dish, but they can also be served at lunch or dinner.
Can I use leftover tortillas?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for using leftover corn tortillas.
What is the difference between red and green chilaquiles?
The difference comes from the salsa used: red salsa (tomato-based) or green salsa (tomatillo-based).
How do I keep chilaquiles crispy?
Mix the tortillas with the sauce just before serving so they don’t become too soft.
Conclusion
Mexican chilaquiles are a simple, traditional, and flavorful dish with deep roots in history. Their versatility allows you to customize them with different toppings and sauces, making them perfect for any time of the day. Whether you prepare them for breakfast or share them with family, they remain a comforting and budget-friendly meal loved by many.
