Chilaquiles is a traditional Mexican breakfast made with fried corn tortillas simmered in a red or green sauce, topped with cheese, onions, and often finished with eggs, beans, or chicken. It’s a dish that transforms leftover tortillas into a hearty, comforting meal with a perfect balance of crunch, spice, and creaminess. Usually served in the morning or as brunch, it’s both filling and flavorful. This recipe serves 2–3 people.
Ingredients
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8 small corn tortillas, cut into triangles
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1½ cups red or green salsa (store-bought or homemade)
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½ cup shredded cheese (queso fresco, cotija, or cheddar)
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¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
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2 tablespoons oil (for frying)
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2 eggs (optional, fried or scrambled)
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Sour cream or Mexican crema, for drizzling
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Fresh cilantro, chopped
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Salt to taste
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Optional toppings: avocado slices, refried beans, shredded chicken, jalapeños
Instructions
1. Fry the Tortillas
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add tortilla triangles in batches and fry until golden and crisp. Remove and place on a paper towel to drain. You can skip frying and use store-bought tortilla chips, but fresh-fried tortillas give the best texture and flavor.
2. Warm the Salsa
In a large skillet or pan, pour in the salsa and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Taste and add a pinch of salt if needed. Let it bubble gently for 2–3 minutes.
3. Combine Tortillas and Sauce
Add the fried tortilla chips to the salsa. Stir gently so the chips are coated but not broken. Simmer for about 2 minutes if you like them crispy-soft, or a bit longer for a softer texture. Don’t overcook—they should stay slightly crisp in parts.
4. Add Toppings
Turn off the heat. Sprinkle cheese and sliced onions over the top. Add fried or scrambled eggs if using. Garnish with sour cream, chopped cilantro, and any other toppings you like, such as avocado or shredded chicken.
5. Serve
Serve warm on plates or in shallow bowls. Chilaquiles are best eaten right after cooking while the chips still have some crunch.
This dish is cozy, quick, and endlessly customizable. Whether you want something spicy, cheesy, hearty, or light, Chilaquiles can be adjusted to fit your taste. It’s Mexican comfort food at its finest.
