Chilaquiles Breakfast: How to Make a Flavor-Packed Mexican Morning Classic
Chilaquiles is a beloved Mexican breakfast dish made with crispy corn tortilla chips simmered in warm salsa, then topped with eggs, avocado, and cheese. Comforting yet energizing, it’s the kind of meal that feels both cozy and vibrant — perfect for a fresh start to the day.
Ranked No.1 on BuzzFeed’s January breakfast list and widely shared on X, chilaquiles has become a go-to choice for home cooks looking for bold flavors without complicated prep.
What Are Chilaquiles?
Chilaquiles originated as a practical way to use leftover tortillas, transforming them into a satisfying breakfast by lightly frying them and soaking them in salsa. The chips soften just enough while still keeping some texture, creating a perfect base for eggs, cheese, and fresh toppings.
There are many regional variations, but the heart of the dish remains the same: crispy corn chips, warm sauce, and simple toppings that come together in minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This easy chilaquiles recipe serves two and comes together quickly.
- Corn tortilla chips (or lightly fried corn tortillas)
- 1 cup red or green salsa
- 2 large eggs
- Freshly grated cheese (queso fresco or mild cheddar)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Olive oil
- Salt to taste
How to Make Chilaquiles Step by Step
Step 1: Crisp the Tortilla Chips
Heat a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil. Add the tortilla chips and cook briefly until warm and lightly crisped. This step helps them hold their texture once the sauce is added.
Step 2: Add the Salsa
Pour the salsa evenly over the chips. Gently toss to coat, letting the chips absorb the sauce for about 1–2 minutes. The goal is soft but not soggy.
Step 3: Cook the Eggs
Crack the eggs directly into the pan or cook them separately, depending on your preference. Cover the skillet briefly so the eggs set while the yolks remain slightly runny.
Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Toppings
Top the chilaquiles with freshly grated cheese and let it melt gently from the heat of the dish. Using a rotary cheese grater helps create fine, fluffy shreds that melt evenly without weighing down the chips.
Finish with sliced avocado and a pinch of salt to taste. Serve immediately.
Why Freshly Grated Cheese Works Best for Chilaquiles
Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. For saucy dishes like chilaquiles, finely grated cheese blends better into the warm salsa and eggs.
A hand crank cheese grater makes it easy to grate just the amount you need in seconds, without electricity or extra cleanup — especially helpful for quick breakfasts.
Tips for the Best Chilaquiles
- Use thick-cut tortilla chips so they don’t fall apart too quickly.
- Warm the salsa before adding it for deeper flavor.
- Grate cheese fresh for better melt and texture.
- Serve immediately — chilaquiles are best enjoyed hot.
