What Are Chilaquiles?
Chilaquiles are a classic Mexican breakfast dish made with fried tortilla chips simmered in a flavorful sauce, usually salsa verde or salsa roja. The softened tortilla chips are then topped with ingredients like fried eggs, avocado, cheese, and fresh veggies.
What’s in These Breakfast Chilaquiles?
The key components of chilaquiles are the tortilla chips, enchilada sauce, and toppings. This recipe uses a homemade ancho chile enchilada sauce, which provides a rich, smoky flavor. The dish is then topped with fried eggs, diced red onion, cilantro, radishes, avocado, and crumbled queso fresco.
Homemade Red Chile Enchilada Sauce
While store-bought enchilada sauce can work in a pinch, making your own ancho chile sauce really takes this dish to the next level. The sauce is blended from reconstituted dried ancho chiles, fire-roasted tomatoes, onion, garlic, and a touch of honey.
How to Make Chilaquiles
To assemble the chilaquiles, the tortilla chips are first coated in the warm enchilada sauce. Then they’re topped with the fried eggs and various garnishes. The key is to add the chips right before serving so they retain their crispy texture.
What is the Difference Between Chilaquiles and Nachos
The main difference is that nachos use hard, uncooked tortilla chips, while chilaquiles use softened tortilla chips that have been simmered in a sauce. Chilaquiles also typically include eggs and other breakfast toppings.
Should Chilaquiles be Crunchy or Soft
Ideally, chilaquiles should have a slightly softened texture from the sauce, but still maintain some crispness. The tortilla chips shouldn’t be completely soggy. Adding the chips right before serving helps them stay crispy.
What is the Difference Between Migas and Chilaquiles
Migas and chilaquiles are both Mexican breakfast dishes using tortillas, but migas use fried or scrambled eggs mixed directly into the tortilla pieces, while chilaquiles have the tortilla chips simmered in a sauce and topped with fried eggs.
Tips for Making Homemade Chilaquiles
- Use thick, sturdy tortilla chips that can hold up to the sauce
- Make the enchilada sauce in advance for quicker assembly
- Cook the eggs just before adding the chips to maintain crispness
- Experiment with different toppings like guacamole, pico de gallo, or shredded chicken
What to Serve With Chilaquiles
Chilaquiles can be a complete meal on their own, but they also pair well with sides like a chopped Mexican kale salad, creamy avocado salsa verde, or a simple fruit salad.
How to Make THE BEST Chilaquiles with Eggs
Ingredients
For the Chilaquiles:
- Canola oil or vegetable oil
- Eggs
- Ancho-Enchilada Sauce (or store-bought enchilada sauce)
- Tortilla chips
- Red onion
- Cilantro
- Radishes
- Queso fresco cheese
- Avocado
- Lime
For the Ancho-Enchilada Sauce:
- Dried Ancho chiles
- Sweet onion
- Fire-roasted tomatoes
- Garlic
- Honey
- Kosher salt
Instructions
To Make the Ancho Enchilada Sauce:
- Soak the dried chiles in hot water for 10 minutes, then blend with the remaining sauce ingredients until smooth.
To Make the Chilaquiles:
- Heat the enchilada sauce in a skillet, then add the tortilla chips and toss to coat.
- Top the chilaquiles with fried eggs and garnish with the remaining toppings.
- Season with salt and serve immediately.
Notes
- Make the enchilada sauce in advance for quicker assembly.
- Cook the eggs just before serving to keep the chips crisp.
- Customize the toppings to your liking.
FAQsWhat are the main differences between chilaquiles and nachos?
The main difference is that nachos use hard, uncooked tortilla chips, while chilaquiles use softened tortilla chips that have been simmered in a sauce. Chilaquiles also typically include breakfast toppings like eggs.
Should chilaquiles be crunchy or soft?
Ideally, chilaquiles should have a slightly softened texture from the sauce, but still maintain some crispness. The tortilla chips shouldn’t be completely soggy.
What’s the difference between migas and chilaquiles?
Migas and chilaquiles are both Mexican breakfast dishes using tortillas, but migas use fried or scrambled eggs mixed directly into the tortilla pieces, while chilaquiles have the tortilla chips simmered in a sauce and topped with fried eggs.
Conclusion:
Chilaquiles are a delicious, versatile Mexican breakfast that can be easily made at home. By making the flavorful ancho enchilada sauce from scratch and carefully assembling the dish, you can create a satisfying and authentic chilaquiles experience. Experiment with different toppings and sauces to find your perfect version of this classic morning meal.

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