Authentic Mexican Chilaquiles Recipe

Authentic Mexican Chilaquiles Recipe: A Breakfast Classic You’ll Crave Daily

There’s nothing quite like waking up to the rich, comforting flavors of authentic Mexican chilaquiles. This traditional dish, made with crispy tortillas drenched in a flavorful sauce, is a staple in Mexican households—and for good reason! It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and packed with bold, satisfying flavors.

I still remember the first time I had chilaquiles in Mexico. I was sitting in a small, family-owned café in Oaxaca, sipping on my café de olla, when a plate of perfectly saucy, crispy, and cheese-topped chilaquiles was placed in front of me. The combination of textures—crunchy, soft, and creamy—was pure magic. Since then, I’ve been recreating this homemade dish in my own kitchen, adding my own personal touches while keeping it traditional.

If you’re looking for a healthy, easy-to-make breakfast that feels indulgent but is packed with nutrients, this chilaquiles recipe (Mexican authentic) is for you. I’ll show you how to make it step by step, offer tips on variations like red salsa, mole, and chipotle, and even share a few must-have tools that make the process easier.

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What Are Chilaquiles?

Chilaquiles (pronounced “chee-lah-KEE-less”) are a traditional Mexican breakfast made by lightly frying corn tortillas, cutting them into triangles, and tossing them in a flavorful sauce. The tortillas soak up the sauce just enough to soften while still maintaining a little crispiness.

They’re often topped with eggs, crema, cheese, avocado, and fresh cilantro. Some people add shredded chicken or beans to make it a heartier meal. No matter how you enjoy them, one thing is certain—chilaquiles are pure comfort food.

The Secret to the Best Chilaquiles: The Sauce

The key to authentic Mexican chilaquiles is in the sauce. The tortillas act like a sponge, soaking up all the delicious flavors. Here are three variations to choose from:

1. Red Salsa Chilaquiles – The most classic version, made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and dried chilies.

2. Mole Chilaquiles – A rich, deep, slightly sweet sauce made with chocolate, chilies, and nuts.

3. Chipotle Salsa Chilaquiles – A smoky and slightly spicy version using chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.

Homemade Red Salsa for Chilaquiles

This is my go-to homemade salsa for chilaquiles because it’s fresh, easy, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

4 medium tomatoes, halved

1 small white onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic

2 dried guajillo chilies (seeded)

1 dried arbol chili (optional, for extra heat)

½ teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon olive oil

½ cup chicken or vegetable broth

Instructions:

1. Roast the tomatoes, onion, garlic, and chilies in a dry pan over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until slightly charred.

2. Blend everything with salt and broth until smooth.

3. Heat the olive oil in a pan, pour in the salsa, and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

This sauce is the perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and savory, making your chilaquiles absolutely irresistible.

How to Make Authentic Mexican Chilaquiles

Now, let’s put everything together!

Ingredients for the Chilaquiles:

12 corn tortillas, cut into triangles

½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)

2 cups homemade red salsa (or mole or chipotle salsa)

2 eggs (for topping)

½ cup crumbled queso fresco or feta

¼ cup Mexican crema or sour cream

1 small avocado, sliced

2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tortillas: Heat oil in a pan and fry tortilla triangles until crispy. Drain on a paper towel.

2. Cook the Eggs: In a separate pan, fry eggs to your preferred doneness. Set aside.

3. Simmer the Sauce: Warm up your homemade red salsa, mole, or chipotle salsa in a pan.

4. Toss the Tortillas: Add crispy tortillas to the sauce and toss to coat. Let them soak for 1-2 minutes.

5. Assemble & Serve: Plate the chilaquiles, top with eggs, queso fresco, crema, avocado, and cilantro.

Kitchen Must-Haves for the Perfect Chilaquiles

Making authentic chilaquiles is even easier when you have the right tools. Here are three kitchen essentials that I personally love and recommend:

1. Lodge Cast Iron Skillet

A must-have for frying tortillas and cooking salsa!

Heats evenly for the perfect crispy tortillas.

Retains heat well, making it great for simmering sauces.

Lasts a lifetime with proper care.

Get it on Amazon – Perfect for making crispy tortillas and authentic Mexican dishes!

2. Victoria Cast Iron Tortilla Press

If you love making homemade tortillas, this press is a game-changer!

Easily flattens dough for fresh corn tortillas.

Heavy-duty cast iron ensures even thickness.

Saves time compared to rolling tortillas by hand.

Order yours here – Homemade tortillas take your chilaquiles to the next level!

3. La Costeña Chipotle Peppers in Adobo

For that smoky, spicy kick in your salsa!

Adds a deep, smoky flavor to your chipotle salsa.

Essential for making authentic Mexican sauces.

Comes in a resealable can for multiple uses.

Buy it now – Elevate your chilaquiles with rich, smoky chipotle flavor!

Healthy Chilaquiles: Lighter but Just as Delicious!

Want a healthier version of this dish? Here are some easy swaps:

Bake the tortillas instead of frying (brush with oil and bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes).

Use Greek yogurt instead of crema.

Add veggies like spinach or zucchini.

Top with scrambled egg whites for extra protein.

Why You’ll Love This Chilaquiles Recipe

Authentic & Traditional – Just like you’d find in Mexico.

Easy to Make – Ready in under 30 minutes.

Customizable – Choose red salsa, mole, or chipotle flavors.

Perfect for Breakfast – Hearty, flavorful, and satisfying.

Final Thoughts: Bring Mexico to Your Kitchen!

Making authentic Mexican chilaquiles at home is easier than you think, and once you try it, you’ll be hooked. Whether you prefer red salsa, mole, or chipotle, this recipe brings the flavors of Mexico straight to your plate.

Have you made chilaquiles before? What’s your favorite way to enjoy them? Let me know in the comments! And if you’re looking for more delicious, easy recipes, be sure to subscribe for updates