Chilaquiles Rojos is a traditional Mexican dish that combines crispy tortilla chips with a rich, spicy red sauce, topped with fresh ingredients like avocado, queso fresco, and Mexican crema. Versatile and flavorful, it’s commonly enjoyed for breakfast but is hearty enough for any meal of the day.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 6 chili de árbol, destemmed and deseeded
• 2 chili guajillo, destemmed and deseeded
• 1 chili chipotle, destemmed and deseeded (or 2 from a can)
• 3 roma tomatoes, halved
• ½ white onion, diced (divided)
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1–2 tablespoons vegetable oil or nonstick cooking spray
• 1 (12-ounce) bag tortilla chips (thicker chips work best)
• 4 eggs (cooked to your liking)
• 1 avocado, sliced
• ¼ cup cilantro, minced
• ¼ cup Mexican crema or sour cream thinned with milk
• ¼ cup diced red onion
• ⅓ cup queso fresco, crumbled (or other shredded cheese)

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chili de árbol, chili guajillo, chili chipotle, roma tomatoes, ½ of the diced white onion, garlic cloves, chicken bouillon, and salt. Cover with water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook for 10 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and transfer the mixture to a blender. Blend until smooth, then strain through a sieve to remove any larger pieces. If the sauce is too runny, return it to the pan and simmer until it reaches the desired consistency.
3. In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the remaining diced white onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes.
4. Add the tortilla chips to the pan, creating a space in the center. Crack the eggs into this space and scramble them as they cook, then mix them with the chips.
5. Pour the prepared sauce over the chips and stir until fully coated. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
6. To serve, garnish with sliced avocado, minced cilantro, Mexican crema, diced red onion, and crumbled queso fresco. Optionally, serve with shredded chicken, steak strips, refried beans, or a side salad.

Nutritional Facts

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 629 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Protein: 11g
• Fat: 47g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Cholesterol: 21mg
• Sodium: 869mg
• Potassium: 695mg
• Fiber: 7g
• Sugar: 8g
• Vitamin A: 2346 IU
• Vitamin C: 28 mg
• Calcium: 246 mg
• Iron: 2 mg

The History Behind Chilaquiles

Chilaquiles is said to have originated during the pre-Hispanic era, where native Mexicans utilized maize (corn) to create a wide variety of dishes, including tortillas. The word “chilaquiles” itself is derived from the Nahuatl word “chīlāquilitl,” which means “a dish with chiles.” This reflects the dish’s core ingredient—chiles—which gives it its signature spicy and flavorful kick.

Chilaquiles was initially a way to reuse leftover tortillas, a practice that allowed Mexicans to minimize food waste and create a hearty, filling meal. Over time, the dish evolved to include various additions such as meats, vegetables, and eggs, making it a versatile meal that could be tailored to personal tastes or regional ingredients. Today, Chilaquiles is enjoyed across Mexico, and it has even gained popularity in other countries, particularly in the United States, where it’s often found on breakfast menus in Mexican restaurants.

Why Chilaquiles Rojos?

Among the two main types of chilaquiles, Chilaquiles Rojos stands out due to its rich, deep flavors derived from the combination of dried chiles and roasted tomatoes. The red sauce (or salsa roja) used in this dish is typically made by rehydrating dried chiles such as the chili de árbol, chili guajillo, and chipotle. This provides a smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor that complements the crispy tortilla chips.

What makes Chilaquiles Rojos unique is the contrast in textures. The crunchy tortilla chips absorb the rich red sauce, becoming soft but still maintaining their structural integrity. This interplay between the crispy chips and the flavorful sauce makes for a truly delightful eating experience. Topping the dish with ingredients such as fried eggs, queso fresco, avocado, and cilantro adds an extra layer of freshness and creaminess, making it both satisfying and visually appealing.

Ingredients in Chilaquiles Rojos

While Chilaquiles Rojos can be made with a variety of toppings and sauces, there are a few essential ingredients that give the dish its signature taste. The star of the dish is the red sauce, which is made from a combination of dried chiles, tomatoes, garlic, onions, and spices. The chiles provide heat and depth, while the tomatoes add a slightly sweet and tangy flavor.

The tortilla chips serve as the base for the dish, and thicker chips work best as they can hold up to the sauce without disintegrating. Eggs are commonly added to Chilaquiles Rojos, either scrambled, fried, or poached, depending on personal preference. Fresh toppings like avocado, cilantro, and diced onions are added to brighten the dish and provide a balance to the richness of the sauce.

Additionally, crumbled queso fresco or other soft Mexican cheeses such as cotija are often sprinkled on top, offering a salty and creamy element to the dish. Sour cream or Mexican crema is another common topping that adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the spiciness of the sauce.

The Nutritional Value of Chilaquiles Rojos

Chilaquiles Rojos, while delicious, can be a high-calorie dish depending on the toppings and ingredients used. It’s important to note that the dish can be made healthier by adjusting certain elements, such as using less oil when frying the chips, opting for a lighter crema, or using less cheese. The dish is rich in carbohydrates from the tortilla chips, but it also provides a good source of protein when eggs are added. The red sauce provides a variety of nutrients, especially if made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and onions, which are packed with vitamins and antioxidants.

The addition of avocado and cilantro also contributes to the dish’s overall health benefits. Avocado is rich in healthy fats, which help promote heart health, while cilantro is a good source of vitamins A and C. The dish can also be made more filling and balanced by adding lean protein options such as grilled chicken or steak.

However, because of its high fat and calorie content, Chilaquiles Rojos is best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a daily meal. By customizing the ingredients, this dish can be made to suit various dietary preferences, including vegetarian or gluten-free options.

Chilaquiles Rojos: A Versatile Dish

One of the greatest aspects of Chilaquiles Rojos is its versatility. The base of crispy tortilla chips and red sauce can be customized with various toppings and proteins to suit different tastes. For a heartier meal, shredded chicken, grilled steak, or even carnitas (slow-cooked pork) can be added. For a vegetarian option, beans, sautéed vegetables, or mushrooms can be incorporated into the dish.

Chilaquiles Rojos can also be adjusted to meet various dietary restrictions. For those who are gluten-sensitive, gluten-free tortilla chips can be used, and for a lower-fat version, baked tortilla chips can be substituted for fried ones. Additionally, for individuals watching their calorie intake, lighter versions of sour cream or crema can be used, or the eggs can be skipped entirely or substituted with egg whites.

Because of its adaptability, Chilaquiles Rojos can be made to cater to both traditional and modern tastes, making it a dish that remains relevant in today’s evolving food culture.

Cultural Significance of Chilaquiles

Chilaquiles is much more than just a delicious breakfast dish—it holds cultural significance within Mexico. For many Mexicans, Chilaquiles is a comfort food, often enjoyed in the morning after a night of celebration or during a leisurely weekend brunch. It is commonly served at family gatherings, celebrations, and even at local markets where vendors prepare it fresh to order.

In addition, Chilaquiles is often associated with the concept of “reciclar” (recycling), as it was historically made with leftover tortillas, allowing families to create a hearty, satisfying meal from simple ingredients. This frugality and resourcefulness are still evident today, as many families continue to make Chilaquiles from scratch using whatever ingredients they have on hand.

Chilaquiles also plays a role in Mexican regional cuisines. In some areas, the dish might be served with specific local variations, such as different types of chiles or unique toppings. In some parts of Mexico, Chilaquiles might be served with a side of beans or rice, while in others, it may be accompanied by a refreshing glass of horchata or agua fresca.

Conclusion

Chilaquiles Rojos is a quintessential Mexican dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of the country’s culinary traditions. With its rich red sauce, crispy tortilla chips, and customizable toppings, Chilaquiles Rojos offers a truly satisfying meal for any time of day. Whether served as a hearty breakfast, a comforting dinner, or even a festive dish for special occasions, Chilaquiles Rojos remains a beloved part of Mexican cuisine. By understanding its history, versatility, and nutritional value, it becomes clear that Chilaquiles Rojos is more than just a meal—it’s a cultural experience that reflects the richness and diversity of Mexico’s food heritage.