Tex Mex Chilaquiles

If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and a touch of fiesta, look no further than Tex Mex Chilaquiles. This vibrant dish is a delightful mix of crispy tortilla chips slathered in a rich green enchilada sauce, loaded with tender turkey (or chicken) and topped with creamy sour cream and melty Monterey Jack cheese. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick dinner, Tex Mex Chilaquiles is sure to please everyone at your table. Let’s dive into the delicious details of this dish!

The Upside of Tex Mex Chilaquiles

Tex Mex Chilaquiles is not just about taste; it’s about the joy of cooking and sharing a meal with loved ones. This dish is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking. Whether you’re using up leftover turkey or making it vegetarian, the possibilities are endless. Plus, it’s a great way to get your daily dose of veggies, especially if you load it up with toppings. It’s comfort food at its finest, and it can easily be made in under 30 minutes!

What Goes In

To whip up a batch of Tex Mex Chilaquiles, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 cups green enchilada sauce (or green salsa)
• 3 cups cooked turkey (or chicken, shredded or cut into small pieces)
• 5 ounces tortilla chips
• 1 cup sour cream
• 10 ounces Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)
• 1 tomato (chopped, optional)
• 2 green onions (chopped, optional)
• 2 tablespoons feta cheese (crumbled, optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro (chopped)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

Essential Tools for Success

Before you start cooking, gather these essential tools:

• Large skillet: Ideal for combining ingredients and heating everything evenly.
• Spatula: Perfect for mixing and serving.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Oven-safe dish (optional): If you prefer to bake your chilaquiles for a crispy finish.

Tex Mex Chilaquiles in Steps

Making Tex Mex Chilaquiles is as easy as 1-2-3! Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

If you’re baking your chilaquiles, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is optional but will give your dish a lovely crispy texture.

Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients

In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the 3 cups of green enchilada sauce. Allow it to warm slightly, then add the 3 cups of cooked turkey or chicken. Stir to combine and heat through, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Tortilla Chips

Gently fold in the 5 ounces of tortilla chips, ensuring they are well coated with the sauce and meat mixture. If the mixture seems too dry, you can add a splash more of the green enchilada sauce.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Cream

Sprinkle the 10 ounces of shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the mixture, followed by dollops of 1 cup of sour cream. Mix gently to distribute the cheese and cream without breaking the chips too much.

Step 5: Bake (Optional)

If you want a crispy top, transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. If you’re skipping the oven, just let the skillet continue heating for a few more minutes until everything is hot and combined.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with optional toppings such as chopped tomato, green onions, feta cheese, fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve immediately and enjoy your Tex Mex Chilaquiles!

Tailor It to Your Diet

Tex Mex Chilaquiles is easily adaptable to fit various dietary preferences:

• Vegetarian: Substitute turkey or chicken with black beans or sautéed bell peppers.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortilla chips and ensure your enchilada sauce is gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Swap out the cheese and sour cream for dairy-free alternatives.
• Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the green enchilada sauce for an extra kick.

Missteps & Fixes

Even the best chefs have off days! Here are some common missteps and how to fix them:

• Too soggy: If the chips get too mushy, you can bake the mixture for a few extra minutes to crisp things up.
• Not enough flavor: Taste and adjust seasoning with more black pepper or a pinch of salt.
• Overcooked chicken: Be careful not to cook the turkey or chicken for too long in the skillet to prevent it from drying out.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Tex Mex Chilaquiles can be prepped in advance for a quick meal later:

To make ahead, prepare the turkey or chicken and the green enchilada sauce separately. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, combine them with the tortilla chips and bake or heat in the skillet. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but keep in mind that the chips will lose their crunch.

Quick Questions

Can I use store-bought green enchilada sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought green enchilada sauce is a great time-saver and still offers plenty of flavor for your Tex Mex Chilaquiles.

What can I serve with Tex Mex Chilaquiles?

Tex Mex Chilaquiles can be served with a side of refried beans, a fresh salad, or even some guacamole for added creaminess and flavor.

How can I make Tex Mex Chilaquiles spicier?

To add heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or using a spicier green salsa. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving.

Can I freeze Tex Mex Chilaquiles?

It’s not recommended to freeze Tex Mex Chilaquiles, as the chips will become soggy once thawed. However, you can freeze the cooked turkey or chicken and the sauce separately for later use.

You Might Also Like

• Tex Mex Cheesy Taco Pasta – A hearty one-pot meal bursting with flavor.
• Loaded Ground Beef Nacho Casserole – A family favorite that combines all the best nacho elements.
• Honey Garlic Chicken Tacos – Sweet and savory tacos that are easy to make and delicious.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the details on how to make Tex Mex Chilaquiles, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking. This dish is the perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a standout meal for any occasion. Enjoy the process, savor every bite, and don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family. Happy cooking!