Chilaquiles Recipe Recipe - The Cookie Rookie®

Name: Chilaquiles Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon avocado oil; 4 cups tortilla chips; 1¼ cups salsa; ½ cup crumbled queso fresco; 2 tablespoons Mexican crema; Sliced avocado; Sliced jalapeño pepper; Sliced onion; Sliced radish; Chopped fresh cilantro; Eggs (scrambled or fried)

This Chilaquiles Recipe is a quick and easy breakfast, lunch, or appetizer. Crunchy tortilla chips are simmered in salsa and tossed with Mexican crema and queso fresco. Delicious!

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Why We Love This Easy Chilaquiles Recipe

The word chilaquiles comes from the Nahuatl language. It literally translates to chilis and greens. This traditional dish is served in Mexico, but hit the United States in 1898! Basically, chilaquiles consist of fried corn tortillas, simmered in salsa or a brothy sauce. This is the quick and easy version of chilaquiles that only requires 5 ingredients and about 15 minutes!

Quick and Easy. When you’re in need of a quick and easy weeknight meal, this dish comes together in less than 30 minutes.
Great Meatless Option. Although you can add meat if you like, this recipe is a great meat-free option for vegetarians.
Completely Customizable. This recipe is traditionally served for breakfast in Mexico along with eggs, but it makes a great appetizer or dinner too. Grab a fork and dig in!

Variations on Homemade Chilaquiles

Chilaquiles are typically served with a fried egg on top as a traditional Mexican breakfast option.

Some of my favorite toppings for chilaquiles are: sliced avocados, jalapeño peppers, onions, or radishes; a sprinkle of fresh cilantro; scrambled or fried eggs; sautéed black beans and onions; or guacamole and more salsa.

Chilaquiles on a white plate with a fork.

How to Store

Store leftover chilaquiles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The longer they sit, the soggier they will get.

Serving Suggestions

The beauty of chilaquiles is that they can be served with scrambled eggs, fried eggs, cheese, shredded chicken, roasted veggies, or any way you like. Make them your own!

These also make a great appetizer for Cinco de Mayo or game day, served up with cocktails!

How can I make chilaquiles dairy-free?

To make these chilaquiles dairy-free, simply swap your favorite vegan cheese for the queso fresco and use non-dairy sour cream instead of Mexican crema.

What kind of salsa should I use for chilaquiles?

Use your favorite kind of store-bought or homemade salsa. I love this easy blender salsa or mix it up with a salsa verde.

What can I use instead of Mexican crema on top of chilaquiles?

Mexican crema is very similar to sour cream, so feel free to substitute it with an equal amount of sour cream.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just be sure to use certified gluten-free tortilla chips.

Are chilaquiles supposed to be crunchy or soggy?

Perfect chilaquiles are totally up to personal preference! Some people prefer crunchy, and some prefer soggy. Experiment and enjoy however you like them best!

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How to Make Chilaquiles Step by Step

Heat the Chips and Salsa: Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large sauté pan set over medium heat. Add 4 cups of tortilla chips to the pan and pour 1¼ cups of salsa on top of the chips.