Ultimate Easy Chicken Chilaquiles: Your Go-To Cheesy & Spicy Mexican Casserole!

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Mexico with our incredible Chicken Chilaquiles recipe – a true comfort food masterpiece! This quick and easy weeknight dinner features layers of crispy tortilla chips baked to perfection with a rich, spicy tomato sauce, generous amounts of melted cheese, and tender shredded chicken. It’s a satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings or a relaxed weekend brunch.

Chilaquiles, a cornerstone of traditional Mexican cuisine, are typically crafted from corn tortillas or slightly aged tortilla chips. While often enjoyed with a fried egg on top for breakfast or brunch, this versatile dish can easily be transformed into a hearty and complete meal. Our rendition takes this classic to new heights by integrating succulent shredded chicken directly into the homemade sauce, then baking it casserole-style. The result is an effortlessly delicious and deeply satisfying dinner that comes together in a flash, making it an ideal choice for any day of the week, whether you’re looking for a quick family meal or something special to share with friends.

Got a half-empty bag of tortilla chips lurking in your pantry? This recipe is their perfect destiny! Since the chips will soften and absorb the delicious, vibrant sauce as they bake, it’s actually beneficial if they’re not factory-fresh. This makes it an excellent, budget-friendly way to reduce food waste and repurpose ingredients you already have on hand. Don’t worry if your chips are slightly stale; they’ll transform into tender, flavor-packed morsels once immersed in the sauce. If you’re feeling ambitious and prefer a more authentic touch, you can even take the extra step to fry your own corn tortilla chips from fresh tortillas for an unparalleled texture and flavor profile. Whichever route you choose, the outcome is guaranteed to be a comforting and flavorful experience that will transport your taste buds straight to Mexico.

There’s an undeniable magic in combining crunchy tortilla chips with gooey, melty cheese and savory toppings, all baked together in the oven. It creates a symphony of textures and flavors that truly defines comfort food, offering warmth and satisfaction with every bite. If you’re craving more cheesy, satisfying options from my kitchen, be sure to explore my Barbecue Chicken Nachos – they’re irresistibly delicious and versatile enough for a festive party spread or a quick family dinner. For minimal effort and maximum flavor, my Crockpot Fiesta Chicken is another fantastic choice that doubles beautifully as a flavorful filling for tacos or burritos, proving that hearty, crowd-pleasing meals don’t always require hours in the kitchen. These recipes all embody the spirit of easy, comforting cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Quick & Easy Chicken Chilaquiles Recipe

This Chicken Chilaquiles recipe isn’t just another meal; it’s a culinary hack for delicious, stress-free dining that will quickly become a family favorite. Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation:

• Lightning Fast Prep: In today’s fast-paced world, finding time for home-cooked meals can be a challenge. With pre-cooked shredded chicken (hello, rotisserie chicken!) and a quick-blending sauce, this entire dish can be ready from start to finish in under 30 minutes. It’s the ultimate solution for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence but you still crave a homemade, flavorful meal that doesn’t feel rushed.
• Smart Use of Leftovers: This recipe is a genius solution for utilizing common pantry staples and leftovers, making it both economical and eco-friendly. It’s perfect for giving new life to corn tortillas or tortilla chips that have lost their initial crunch, preventing food waste. Any cooked chicken you might have on hand – whether it’s from a Sunday roast, a store-bought rotisserie chicken, or even canned chicken – finds a delicious purpose here.
• Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor: You might be surprised that such a profoundly satisfying and authentic Mexican flavor can be achieved with only about 10 core ingredients. You won’t need exotic spices or hard-to-find components. The beauty lies in the simple, fresh ingredients that combine to create a rich, savory, and perfectly spiced sauce, making it incredibly easy to throw together in a hurry without compromising on taste.
• Budget & Pantry Friendly: Built on basic, wholesome, and affordable ingredients like canned tomatoes, chicken broth, and common spices, this dish is incredibly kind to your wallet. It’s designed to make the most of what you might already have, reducing the need for special grocery trips and proving that delicious meals don’t have to be expensive.
• Perfect for Any Crowd: Whether you’re feeding a small family on a cozy evening or hosting an impromptu gathering, Chicken Chilaquiles are an excellent way to feed a crowd on short notice. Its hearty nature and universally loved flavors make it a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that everyone, from kids to adults, will thoroughly enjoy. It’s also easily scalable for larger groups.
• Customizable to Your Taste: One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. From adjusting the spice level to experimenting with different cheeses (like Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend) and a variety of fresh toppings, this recipe offers endless possibilities for personalization. This ensures that every time you make it, it can be perfectly tailored to your cravings and dietary preferences, always hitting just the right spot.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Chicken Chilaquiles

Get ready to gather these simple yet powerful ingredients that come together to create this Mexican comfort classic. Each component plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so irresistible. For the FULL PRINTABLE recipe card with precise measurements and detailed instructions, make sure to scroll to the very bottom of this post!

• Tortilla Chips: This is the backbone of our chilaquiles, providing the essential structure and texture. You can use fresh, store-bought tortilla chips for ultimate convenience and a consistent crunch, or, in true chilaquiles fashion, embrace the tradition by using old or slightly stale corn tortillas/chips. They’ll readily soak up the rich sauce and transform into tender, flavorful morsels as they bake. Any sturdy brand of corn tortilla chip will work wonderfully. For those seeking an extra homemade touch, you can even cut fresh corn tortillas into triangles and fry them yourself for an unparalleled freshness.
• Cooked Shredded Chicken: To ensure this recipe comes together in record time – making it a true weeknight hero – pre-cooked and shredded chicken is your best friend. This could be leftover roasted chicken from a previous meal, a convenient store-bought rotisserie chicken (a personal favorite for saving time), or even chicken breasts quickly boiled or pan-fried and then shredded. Its inclusion makes the dish substantial enough for a satisfying main course, adding lean protein and savory depth.
• Cheddar Cheese: A classic choice for its sharp, tangy flavor profile and its superb melting capabilities. Shredded cheddar creates a beautifully bubbly, golden-brown crust that everyone loves and is essential for that comforting, cheesy pull. For a different twist or added complexity, consider using a Mexican-style shredded cheese blend (such as Monterey Jack, Oaxaca, or a “taco blend”) or sprinkling some salty, crumbly Cotija cheese over the top after baking for an authentic finish.
• Canned Whole Tomatoes: These form the vibrant and robust base of our homemade sauce. While diced tomatoes can work in a pinch if that’s all you have, whole canned tomatoes are often preferred. When pureed in a blender, they yield a smoother, richer sauce, free from any chunky bits that might disrupt the silky texture. Remember not to drain them; you’ll need all that flavorful liquid to achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
• Jalapeño Pepper: This pepper adds a delightful, fresh kick and subtle earthy notes to the sauce. To fine-tune the heat level precisely to your preference, carefully remove the white pith and seeds from inside the jalapeño before chopping – this is where the majority of the capsaicin (the compound responsible for heat) resides. For a milder flavor, use only half a pepper; for more heat, leave some seeds in or even add an extra jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne.
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: This essential liquid gold helps to achieve the perfect, pourable consistency for our sauce while adding depth of savory flavor without introducing excess sodium. Using low-sodium allows you to control the seasoning precisely.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is absolutely non-negotiable for that aromatic, pungent kick that forms the foundational layer of flavor for so many delicious sauces. It adds an irreplaceable depth.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the aromatic onion and helping to bloom the flavors in the sauce. A good quality extra virgin olive oil can enhance the overall taste with its subtle fruity notes.
• Red Onion: Finely chopped red onion is sautéed until soft and sweet, building a foundational layer of aromatic flavor for the sauce. Its sweetness balances the heat of the jalapeño and the acidity of the tomatoes, providing a pleasant savory depth.
• Salt: A crucial seasoning, salt is essential for balancing and enhancing all the complex flavors in the sauce. Always taste and adjust to your personal preference throughout the cooking process.
• Optional Toppings: These are where you can truly make your chilaquiles shine and customize each serving! Consider adding fresh **avocado** slices or a dollop of creamy guacamole for richness and healthy fats; diced fresh **tomatoes** for a burst of juicy freshness; a generous dollop of cool **sour cream** or authentic Mexican crema to beautifully balance the spice; thinly sliced **black olives** for a briny, savory touch; or a generous sprinkle of fresh chopped **cilantro** for vibrant herbaceous brightness. Other popular additions include pickled red onions, thinly sliced radishes, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Delicious Chicken Chilaquiles

Creating this flavorful Chicken Chilaquiles casserole is surprisingly simple and comes together with minimal fuss. Follow these straightforward steps for a perfect meal every time, ensuring a truly comforting and authentic experience:

1. Prepare Your Oven & Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 350º F (175°C). While the oven heats, prepare your baking vessel. You’ll need either a 9×13 inch casserole dish or a large, oven-safe skillet (a cast-iron skillet works beautifully for this, allowing you to go from stovetop to oven seamlessly).
2. Make the Flavorful Chilaquiles Sauce: To a sturdy blender, add the entire 28-ounce can of whole tomatoes (including their liquid), the prepared jalapeño pepper (seeded and chopped to your desired heat level), 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Secure the lid and puree until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform. This creates the vibrant, spicy, and foundational base for your chilaquiles.
3. Sauté Aromatics & Build Flavor: In your large skillet (or a separate pan if not oven-safe), heat 1 Tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the 1/4 cup of finely chopped red onion. Sauté, stirring occasionally, for about 3-5 minutes, until the onion softens, becomes translucent, and releases its sweet, pungent aroma. This step is crucial for building a deep flavor base.
4. Simmer the Sauce to Perfection: Carefully pour the pureed tomato sauce mixture from the blender into the skillet with the softened onions. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a steady simmer. Let the sauce cook for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This simmering period allows the sauce to thicken slightly, concentrates the flavors, and ensures all the ingredients meld beautifully into a cohesive, delicious sauce.
5. Incorporate the Chicken: Once your sauce has achieved the desired consistency and its flavors have deepened, stir in the 2 cups of pre-cooked and shredded chicken. Continue to cook for just 1-2 minutes, stirring gently, to ensure the chicken is thoroughly warmed through and completely coated in the luscious, spicy sauce. This allows the chicken to fully absorb all the wonderful flavors.
6. Assemble the Chilaquiles Casserole: If you’re using an oven-safe skillet, you can proceed with assembly directly in it. Otherwise, transfer the chicken and sauce mixture to your prepared casserole dish. Evenly spread 4 cups of tortilla chips across the bottom of your chosen baking dish, creating a base layer. Carefully pour the hot chicken and sauce mixture over the chips, making sure to distribute it as evenly as possible. The goal is for the chips to get a good coating of sauce so they can soften and absorb the flavor without becoming overly soggy too quickly.
7. Top with Cheese and Bake: Generously sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese blend) over the top of the sauced tortilla chips. Ensure a good, even layer for maximum cheesiness. Transfer the dish to your preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for approximately 10 minutes, or until the cheese is wonderfully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden at the edges. The chips should be softened but still hold some structure, providing that perfect chilaquiles texture.
8. Serve Immediately with Toppings: Once out of the oven, let the chilaquiles rest for a minute or two to allow the cheese to set slightly. Then, serve your hot Chicken Chilaquiles immediately, topped with your favorite optional garnishes. Fresh avocado slices, a dollop of cool sour cream, a sprinkle of diced tomatoes, and a generous amount of fresh chopped cilantro are highly recommended to add freshness, creaminess, and a burst of complementary flavors. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful Mexican comfort food straight from the skillet or casserole dish!

Expert Tips & Variations for the Best Chicken Chilaquiles

Transform your Chicken Chilaquiles into an even more spectacular dish with these helpful tips and exciting variations, allowing you to tailor it perfectly to your taste and available ingredients:

• Spice It Up or Tone It Down: The beauty of homemade sauce is customization! If you crave extra heat, don’t hesitate to add an additional jalapeño pepper to the sauce mixture. For a deeper, smoky kick, consider incorporating one chipotle pepper in adobo sauce (pureed along with the tomatoes) – it adds incredible depth. Conversely, for a milder dish, ensure all seeds and pith are meticulously removed from the jalapeño, or substitute it with a milder green chili like an Anaheim pepper, or even omit it entirely. Substituting traditional cheddar cheese with spicy pepper jack cheese is another excellent and easy way to subtly boost the heat factor. A dash of your favorite hot sauce at the end also works wonders!
• Cheese, Please!: While classic cheddar provides fantastic flavor and melt, don’t be afraid to experiment with other cheeses. A quality Mexican cheese blend, creamy Monterey Jack, or even a combination of these would be absolutely delicious. For a touch of authentic Mexican flavor and a slightly salty bite, crumble some Cotija cheese over the top after baking, or use a sprinkle of fresh queso fresco for a milder, creamier tang.
• Shortcut Sauce Option: No time to whip up a homemade sauce from scratch, or perhaps you don’t have a blender on hand? No problem! A good quality can of your favorite store-bought enchilada sauce or a mild red salsa can be used as a convenient and flavorful substitute. Just be sure to taste it before adding and adjust any additional seasonings (like salt or garlic) as pre-made sauces can vary widely in their spice and sodium levels.
• Boost the Freshness with Herbs: Beyond the suggested fresh cilantro, consider finely chopped green onions (scallions) sprinkled over the top after baking for a mild oniony bite and vibrant color. For a truly authentic and unique Mexican herb flavor, if you can find it, a tiny bit of fresh epazote stirred into the sauce can add a distinctive taste.
• Make it a Brunch Extravaganza: To truly lean into the traditional breakfast/brunch roots of chilaquiles, simply top each individual serving with a perfectly fried or poached egg. The rich, runny yolk will mix beautifully with the spicy sauce and tender chips, creating an extra layer of luxuriousness and flavor that is simply divine.
• Vegetarian Alternatives for Everyone: This dish is incredibly adaptable for vegetarian diets. Cooked and seasoned black beans (a can or two, rinsed and drained, stirred into the sauce), crumbled seasoned tempeh (sautéed until browned), baked and cubed tofu (marinated for flavor), or even various plant-based chicken substitutes can seamlessly replace the shredded chicken. Ensure whatever substitute you choose is cooked and seasoned prior to adding it to the sauce for best results.
• Control the Crunch Factor: The texture of the tortilla chips is key in chilaquiles. If you prefer your tortilla chips to retain more of their crunch, you can underbake slightly, or, for maximum crispness, some people prefer to toss the chips with just enough sauce to coat them lightly and then bake uncovered for a shorter period. For those who love a softer, fully absorbed chip, ensure they are well coated and bake for the full recommended time.
• Add a Splash of Citrus: A fresh squeeze of lime juice over the finished chilaquiles before serving can brighten all the flavors and add a zesty tang that cuts through the richness beautifully.

When to Serve These Amazing Chicken Chilaquiles

Chilaquiles hold a special and versatile place in Mexican culinary traditions. While most commonly gracing breakfast or brunch tables, often served alongside a fried egg, our hearty chicken-filled version transcends these traditional boundaries, making it incredibly adaptable for various occasions:

• Weeknight Dinner Savior: Its quick preparation (under 30 minutes!) and deeply comforting nature make it an ideal solution for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying and flavorful meal without extensive cooking time. It’s a fantastic, exciting alternative to your usual dinner rotation and a welcome change of pace.
• Weekend Brunch Star: For a leisurely weekend, elevate your brunch spread by making these chicken chilaquiles the star. The addition of tender chicken makes them much more substantial than the traditional version, and they pair wonderfully with fresh fruit, strong coffee, or festive mimosas. Don’t forget the option of adding a perfectly cooked egg on top for that classic brunch experience!
• Game Day or Casual Party Food: The casserole format makes this dish excellent for feeding a crowd with minimal fuss. It’s a vibrant, flavorful, and easy-to-share dish that works perfectly for casual gatherings, potlucks, tailgating, or while watching your favorite sports game. Consider setting up a simple topping bar for guests to customize their plates and make it an interactive experience!
• Comfort Food Any Time: When you’re simply craving something warm, spicy, and deeply comforting, these chilaquiles hit all the right notes. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, offering rich flavors and a satisfying texture that truly nourishes the soul.
• Meal Prep for Lunch: While best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can make for a delicious and easy lunch the next day. The flavors deepen, and the soft, saucy chips are still incredibly enjoyable.

Can I Make These Chicken Chilaquiles Vegetarian? Absolutely!

Yes, transforming this chicken chilaquiles recipe into a delicious and hearty vegetarian meal is remarkably simple and doesn’t compromise on flavor or satisfying substance. The key is to select a protein substitute that will readily absorb the rich, spicy tomato sauce just as effectively as the chicken, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Here are some excellent vegetarian and plant-based options to consider:

• Seasoned Tempeh: Crumbled and sautéed tempeh can provide a wonderful, firm texture that mimics ground meat. Before adding it to the sauce, make sure to sauté and season it well with a blend of Mexican spices like cumin, chili powder, and a touch of smoked paprika to infuse it with robust, savory flavors.
• Baked Tofu: For a satisfying chewiness and excellent sauce absorption, use extra-firm tofu. Press it thoroughly to remove excess water, then cube and bake or pan-fry until it’s beautifully golden brown. You can also marinate the tofu cubes in some of the chicken broth and additional spices (or even a little lime juice) before cooking to enhance its flavor profile even further.
• Faux Chicken (Plant-Based Chicken): The market is full of excellent plant-based chicken substitutes that are designed to replicate the taste and texture of real chicken. Simply prepare your chosen faux chicken product according to its package directions (e.g., sautéing or baking), then add it to the simmering sauce just as you would the shredded chicken. This is a very convenient option for a quick swap.
• Black Beans or Pinto Beans: For a simpler, more rustic, and naturally protein-rich option, add a can or two of rinsed and drained black beans or pinto beans directly into the simmering sauce. They’ll add a wonderful earthy flavor, fiber, and a satisfying texture, making the dish incredibly filling.
• Cooked Lentils: Brown or green lentils, cooked until tender and then stirred into the sauce, can also provide a great source of plant-based protein and a slightly different texture.

Whatever vegetarian substitute you choose, it’s crucial that it is already cooked or thoroughly prepared before being added to the sauce. Since the chilaquiles only bake in the oven for about 10 minutes, there isn’t enough time for raw ingredients to fully cook through. Ensuring your vegetarian protein is ready will allow it to simply warm through and meld beautifully with the sauce’s complex flavors, contributing to a perfect vegetarian chilaquiles experience.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Chicken Chilaquiles

While Chicken Chilaquiles are certainly a complete and satisfying meal on their own, pairing them with complementary sides and drinks can truly elevate your dining experience to a full-blown Mexican fiesta! Here are some fantastic suggestions to round out your meal:

• Skinny Margarita: If you’re enjoying these savory chilaquiles for dinner, a refreshing Skinny Margarita is the ideal adult beverage companion. Its zesty, vibrant notes of lime and tequila cut beautifully through the richness and spice of the dish, transporting your taste buds straight to a leisurely Mexican vacation with every invigorating sip.
• Mexican Coleslaw: Add a burst of freshness, a delightful crunch, and a subtle tang to your meal with this vibrant, slightly spicy side dish. The crisp cabbage and tangy, zesty dressing provide a welcome textural and flavor contrast to the soft, saucy chilaquiles, creating a balanced plate.
• Pico de Gallo: A vibrant, chunky, and undeniably fresh salsa, pico de gallo is a quintessential accompaniment to almost any Mexican-style meal. Its bright flavors of ripe tomatoes, crisp onions, fresh cilantro, and a hint of jalapeño will enhance every savory bite of your chilaquiles, adding a burst of garden freshness.
• Mexican Chocolate Chip Cookies: Round out your meal with a dessert that offers a surprising and delightful twist. These divine little cookies are infused with warm, aromatic cinnamon and a subtle hint of cayenne pepper, providing a gentle warmth that beautifully complements the savory spice of the chilaquiles, creating a memorable ending.
• Refried Beans or Mexican Rice: For an even heartier and more traditional meal, classic creamy refried beans or a fluffy side of authentic Mexican rice are always welcome additions that enhance the traditional feel and make the meal exceptionally filling.
• Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a lime vinaigrette can offer a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors, cleansing the palate between bites.
• Fresh Fruit Platter: A simple bowl of sliced tropical fruits like mango, papaya, or pineapple can offer a wonderfully refreshing, sweet counterpoint to the savory and spicy flavors, especially if serving for brunch.

Storing & Reheating Your Chicken Chilaquiles

To ensure you can enjoy your delicious Chicken Chilaquiles beyond the first serving, proper storage and reheating are key. While chilaquiles are always best served fresh from the oven, they can certainly be enjoyed as leftovers with a slightly different (but still delicious) texture.

• Refrigerate: Any leftover Chicken Chilaquiles should be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. It’s important to note that the tortilla chips will inevitably soften further as they sit in the sauce, losing their initial crispness. However, the flavors will continue to meld and deepen, often tasting even better the next day as the sauce fully permeates the chips.
• Reheat: To warm up your refrigerated leftovers, the best method is usually the oven. Transfer your portion to an oven-safe dish. To prevent them from drying out, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated oven at a moderate 250°F (120°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chilaquiles are thoroughly heated through to the center. While you can microwave individual portions for convenience, be aware that this method tends to make the chips even softer and potentially a bit mushy, without developing any crispness. The oven method helps retain a bit more texture and warmth evenly.
• Freezing: Unfortunately, this assembled dish isn’t generally recommended for freezing due to the delicate texture of the tortilla chips. Upon thawing and reheating, the chips tend to become overly soggy and mushy, significantly detracting from the overall enjoyment of the dish. However, there’s a fantastic meal prep hack you can use: you can make the spicy tomato sauce ahead of time and freeze it! Simply prepare the sauce as directed in the recipe, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight, freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. The sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to make chilaquiles, simply thaw the sauce overnight in the refrigerator, then proceed with the recipe from step 3 (adding chicken) onwards. This saves a significant amount of time on busy days!

More Irresistible Mexican Dinner Recipes to Explore

If you loved these comforting Chicken Chilaquiles and are eager to dive deeper into the world of vibrant Mexican-inspired cuisine, you’re in for a treat! My kitchen is full of flavorful dishes that are perfect for any occasion. Explore these other fantastic recipes that celebrate the rich and diverse tastes of Mexico:

• Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas: Experience the incredible convenience of making tender, sizzling chicken fajitas in your Instant Pot. They’re quick, bursting with authentic flavor, and perfect for a speedy, healthy dinner any night of the week.
• Enchilada Pasta Casserole: A delightful and innovative fusion of comforting Italian pasta and bold Mexican enchilada flavors. This cheesy casserole brings together the best of both worlds in one satisfying dish, perfect for a hearty family meal.
• Crockpot Fiesta Chicken: Talk about minimal effort and maximum flavor! This slow-cooker chicken recipe is incredibly versatile and makes succulent, tender chicken that’s fantastic for filling tacos, burritos, quesadillas, or creating flavorful bowls. Set it and forget it for an easy meal.
• Taco Rice: All the delicious, seasoned goodness of your favorite tacos mixed seamlessly with fluffy rice in one convenient and easy-to-prepare dish. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for a quick, family-friendly dinner.
• Flautas: Crispy, golden-fried rolled tacos filled with savory goodness, these flautas are absolutely irresistible. They’re perfect as an appetizer, a light meal, or a snack, especially when served with your favorite dipping sauces like guacamole or sour cream.
• Mexican Pizza: A fun, creative, and highly customizable twist on traditional pizza, loaded with all your favorite Mexican flavors. It’s a fantastic recipe for getting the family involved in the kitchen and building their own delicious creations.
• Pork Carnitas: Indulge in the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness of slow-cooked pork carnitas. This recipe yields incredibly juicy, flavorful pork that’s fantastic in tacos, burritos, sopes, or simply enjoyed on its own with a squeeze of lime.

4.60 from 10 votes

Chicken Chilaquiles

By Erin Sellin

This Chicken Chilaquiles recipe is a delightful Mexican casserole combining crispy tortilla chips, tender shredded chicken, and a zesty homemade spicy tomato sauce, all baked under a generous blanket of melted cheese. It’s the ultimate easy, comforting dish for a quick weeknight dinner or a festive brunch gathering!

Prep: 5 minutes mins

Cook: 25 minutes mins

Total: 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6

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Ingredients 

• ▢ 1 28 ounce can whole tomatoes
• ▢ 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped (adjust to taste)
• ▢ 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
• ▢ 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon salt
• ▢ 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• ▢ 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• ▢ 2 cups chicken, cooked and shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
• ▢ 4 cups tortilla chips
• ▢ 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded (or Mexican blend)

Toppings (optional)

• ▢ Avocado, sliced or diced
• ▢ Tomatoes, diced
• ▢ Sour Cream
• ▢ Black Olives
• ▢ Cilantro, freshly chopped
• ▢ Crumbled Cotija cheese, green onions, hot sauce, or a fried egg

Instructions 

• Preheat your oven to 350º F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch casserole dish or a large oven-safe skillet.
• Make the Chilaquiles Sauce: To a blender, add the 28-ounce can of whole tomatoes (undrained), 1 seeded and chopped jalapeño pepper, 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Puree until the mixture is completely smooth.
  
• Cook the Aromatics: In a large skillet (preferably oven-safe if you plan to bake in it), heat 1 Tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1/4 cup of finely chopped red onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it is soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
• Simmer the Sauce: Carefully pour the pureed tomato mixture from the blender into the skillet with the softened onions. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it gently simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step allows the sauce to thicken slightly and for the flavors to fully develop and meld.
• Add the Chicken: Stir 2 cups of cooked and shredded chicken into the simmering sauce. Continue to cook for 1-2 minutes, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly coated and warmed through.
  
• Assemble the Chilaquiles: If not using an oven-safe skillet for baking, transfer the chicken and sauce to your prepared casserole dish. Spread 4 cups of tortilla chips evenly across the bottom of the dish. Pour the chicken and tomato sauce mixture over the chips, making sure to distribute it as evenly as possible so that all the chips get a good coating.
• Bake Until Cheesy & Bubbly: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese generously over the sauced tortilla chips. Ensure a good, even layer for maximum cheesiness. Transfer the dish to your preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly, and the chilaquiles are heated through.
• Serve & Garnish: Remove from the oven and let it stand for a minute. Serve your hot Chicken Chilaquiles immediately, topped with fresh avocado slices, diced tomatoes, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, or any other optional toppings you desire. Enjoy!

Notes

Recipe adapted from Cooking Light. Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less jalapeño, and experiment with different types of cheese or protein (like black beans or tofu for a vegetarian version) to customize this dish to your preference.

Nutrition

Serving: 5-6 | Calories: 374kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 15g | Cholesterol: 62mg | Sodium: 424mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 2g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation. Individual ingredient brands and preparation methods may affect nutritional values.

Additional Info

Author: Erin Sellin

Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes minutes

Course: Dinner, Lunch, Brunch, Main Course

Cuisine: Mexican, American

Servings: 6

Calories: 374

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