Chilaquiles: Crispy Tortillas Meet Zesty Salsa in a Quick Mexican Breakfast Classic

Chilaquiles: A Classic Mexican Breakfast

Start your day with vibrant chilaquiles, a quick and easy Mexican breakfast bursting with flavor.

Ingredients for authentic chilaquiles

• 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying tortillas)
• 10 corn tortillas, cut into 1-inch wedges
• 1 small white onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups salsa verde or red salsa
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup crumbled queso fresco or shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to make chilaquiles: Step-by-step guide

1. Heat the oil: In a large, heavy skillet, warm 2 cups of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry the tortilla chips: Working in batches, fry tortilla wedges until golden and crisp, about 2 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with salt.
3. Sauté aromatics: Discard excess oil, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the skillet. Sauté onion and garlic over medium heat until translucent, 3–4 minutes.
4. Add the salsa: Pour in salsa verde or red salsa, bring to a simmer, and cook for 2–3 minutes to deepen the flavor.
5. Combine chips and salsa: Toss the fried tortilla chips into the skillet, gently coating each piece with sauce.
6. Poach the eggs: Create four small wells in the chilaquiles and crack an egg into each well. Cover the skillet and cook until whites are set but yolks remain runny, about 5 minutes.
7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle queso fresco and cilantro on top. Season with salt and pepper and serve immediately.

Chef’s Tips & Variations

• Tip: Use slightly stale tortillas for extra crispiness.
• Swap salsa verde for a smoky red chipotle salsa to change up the flavor profile.
• Add shredded chicken or chorizo for a heartier meal.

Growing up in Mexico, I watched my abuela whip up these sizzling chilaquiles in under 30 minutes whenever guests arrived unexpectedly. Today, you can bring that same warmth and spontaneity to your kitchen.

Enjoy these homemade chilaquiles that bring a taste of Mexico to your breakfast table.