Chilaquiles with Avocado and Queso Fresco is a vibrant, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings the best of Mexican comfort food to your table. Made with crispy tortilla chips tossed in a rich enchilada sauce, then topped with queso fresco, fresh avocado, and crema, this dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a festive gathering. Whether you’re serving it for Cinco de Mayo or a weekend brunch, chilaquiles are a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Mexican Flavor – A classic dish with bold, traditional ingredients.
- Quick and Easy – Ready in 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings.
- Crunchy and Creamy Balance – Crispy chips, smooth crema, and fresh toppings create the perfect texture.
- Great for Any Meal – Serve as breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 cups tortilla chips
- 1 cup red or green enchilada sauce
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup Mexican crema
Directions
- Heat the sauce – In a pan over medium heat, warm the enchilada sauce until hot.
- Toss the chips – Add tortilla chips to the pan, tossing gently to coat them in the sauce. Heat for about 1-2 minutes until slightly softened but still crispy.
- Assemble the chilaquiles – Transfer to a serving plate and top with queso fresco, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro.
- Garnish – Add sliced avocado and drizzle with Mexican crema.
- Serve immediately – Enjoy while warm with extra toppings if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2-3
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Chilaquiles – Add chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
- Protein-Packed – Top with fried eggs, shredded chicken, or chorizo for a heartier meal.
- Cheesy Upgrade – Add melted Oaxaca or Monterey Jack cheese for extra richness.
- Crunchier Version – Lightly toss the chips in sauce rather than soaking them completely.
- Vegan-Friendly – Swap queso fresco for dairy-free cheese and use cashew crema instead of Mexican crema.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day (best enjoyed fresh).
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little extra sauce if needed.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the chips will become too soft.
FAQs
What is the best sauce for chilaquiles?
Both red enchilada sauce (chilaquiles rojos) and green salsa verde (chilaquiles verdes) work well. Choose based on your flavor preference!
Can I make my own tortilla chips?
Yes! Fry or bake corn tortillas until crispy for a homemade touch.
How do I keep my chilaquiles from getting too soggy?
Toss the chips lightly in the sauce and serve immediately to maintain some crunch.
What are the best toppings for chilaquiles?
Some favorites include fried eggs, shredded chicken, chorizo, avocado, pickled onions, or refried beans.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Chilaquiles are best served fresh, but you can prep the sauce and toppings ahead of time.
What type of cheese can I use instead of queso fresco?
Try feta cheese, cotija cheese, or shredded Monterey Jack for a similar taste.
Are chilaquiles the same as nachos?
No, chilaquiles are softer and saucier, while nachos are crispier with melted cheese.
How do I make my chilaquiles extra creamy?
Drizzle extra Mexican crema or a dollop of sour cream for a creamier texture.
Can I serve chilaquiles with meat?
Yes! Shredded chicken, beef, or pork carnitas make excellent additions.
What is the difference between chilaquiles and migas?
Chilaquiles use tortilla chips soaked in sauce, while migas use scrambled eggs with crushed tortillas.
Conclusion
Chilaquiles with Avocado and Queso Fresco is a bold, flavorful, and comforting Mexican dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any meal of the day. With its crunchy tortilla chips, tangy enchilada sauce, fresh toppings, and creamy garnishes, this dish delivers authentic Mexican flavors in every bite. Try different variations, serve with your favorite toppings, and enjoy this deliciously satisfying meal!
