Chilaquiles
Delicious and hearty Mexican-inspired dish featuring crispy tortilla chips layered with flavorful salsa, chicken, beans, and melted cheese—a perfect comfort food for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, combine the jar salsa, salsa verde, and chopped cilantro.
- Mix well.
- Spread 1/2 cup of the salsa mixture in the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Layer half of the tortilla pieces over the salsa layer.
- Add half of the refried beans, shredded chicken, remaining salsa mixture, and shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using corn tortillas instead of flour ones for added texture. If you're looking for a lighter option, swap the refried beans for black beans or pinto beans. Fresh toppings like avocado, sour cream, or jalapeños can enhance the flavor. You can also use leftover shredded beef or ground turkey as a protein substitute in this chilaquiles recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Chilaquiles are perfect for brunch or a casual dinner. Serve them with a side of scrambled eggs or a simple salad for a complete meal. Pairing with a refreshing drink like iced tea or a light beer can elevate the experience. For a delightful twist, serve with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chilaquiles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This method keeps the tortillas from becoming too soggy, ensuring a delicious meal that tastes almost as good as fresh.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chilaquiles contains roughly 893 calories, with 45g protein, 144g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (790% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (139% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make chilaquiles ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the layers of chilaquiles in advance and assemble them just before baking. Store the salsa mixture and layered tortillas separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply combine and follow the baking instructions.
What can I use instead of Co-Jack cheese?
If you can't find Co-Jack cheese, a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar works well as a substitute. You can also consider using queso fresco for a milder flavor or pepper jack for some added spice, enhancing your chilaquiles with a unique twist.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make vegetarian chilaquiles, simply omit the chicken and use black beans or lentils as a protein source. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini to boost nutrition and flavor while keeping it satisfying and delicious.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).