Easy Chilaquiles Recipe: A Simple Guide to a Delicious Mexican Breakfast
Chilaquiles, a beloved Mexican breakfast dish, is surprisingly easy to make! This recipe offers a simplified approach, perfect for beginners or busy mornings, without sacrificing flavor. Get ready to impress your taste buds with this quick and easy chilaquiles recipe!
What are Chilaquiles?
Chilaquiles are a delicious Mexican dish made from tortilla chips simmered in a flavorful sauce, typically topped with cheese, onions, cilantro, and often a protein like chicken or eggs. They're a fantastic way to use leftover tortillas and create a satisfying and customizable meal. This easy chilaquiles recipe focuses on simplicity and bold flavors.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a perfect easy chilaquiles recipe for beginners.
- Tortillas: 6-8 corn tortillas (you can use flour tortillas too!)
- Vegetable Oil: For frying the tortillas.
- Sauce:
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference!)
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
- 1/4 cup chopped white onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Optional: Fried eggs, sour cream, avocado
Step-by-Step Instructions: Your Easy Chilaquiles Guide
This simple, easy chilaquiles recipe can be made in under 30 minutes!
1. Prepare the Tortilla Chips:
- Cut the tortillas into wedges or triangles.
- Heat a little vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the tortilla wedges until golden brown and crispy. Remove them and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
2. Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet (no need to wash!), combine the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, chipotle peppers, and cumin.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers for your desired level of spiciness.
3. Assemble the Chilaquiles:
- Add the fried tortilla chips to the simmering sauce, gently stirring to coat them evenly.
- Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chips to absorb some of the sauce. Don't overcook; you want the chips to remain crispy.
4. Top and Serve:
- Transfer the chilaquiles to a serving dish.
- Sprinkle generously with shredded cheese.
- Top with chopped onions and cilantro.
- Optional: Add fried eggs, a dollop of sour cream, or sliced avocado for extra deliciousness.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your easy chilaquiles!
Tips and Variations for Your Easy Chilaquiles Recipe
- Spice it up: Add more chipotle peppers or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Add protein: Cook some shredded chicken, chorizo, or steak and add it to the chilaquiles.
- Vegetarian option: Omit the meat and add black beans or other vegetables.
- Make it ahead: The sauce and tortilla chips can be prepared in advance and assembled just before serving.
This easy chilaquiles recipe is a fantastic starting point. Feel free to experiment and adapt it to your own taste preferences. Enjoy!
