These Enchiladas Suizas are a crowd-pleasing dish that combines the richness of a creamy green sauce with the heartiness of shredded chicken and melted cheese. Each bite is a perfect balance of flavors with a mild heat from the salsa verde and the freshness of cilantro.
This dish is as versatile as it is delicious – whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or preparing for a cozy dinner with friends, Enchiladas Suizas will satisfy every craving. Serve it with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple green salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
-
12 corn tortillas
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
-
1 cup sour cream
-
1 cup green enchilada sauce (or salsa verde)
-
1/2 cup chicken broth
-
1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Mexican blend)
-
1/2 medium onion, chopped
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
-
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
-
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
-
Add shredded chicken, chicken broth, and green enchilada sauce. Stir to combine and let simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
In a separate pan, lightly fry each tortilla for 30 seconds per side in a bit of oil, just to soften them (this step helps to avoid sogginess).
-
Mix sour cream with a tablespoon of green enchilada sauce and set aside.
-
Spread a bit of the chicken mixture on the bottom of a baking dish. Fill each tortilla with chicken mixture and roll up. Place seam-side down in the dish.
-
Once all tortillas are rolled, pour the remaining chicken mixture over the top, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
-
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
-
Top with sour cream sauce and fresh cilantro before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The History and Origin of Enchiladas Suizas
Enchiladas have a long and rich history in Mexican cuisine, dating back to the times of the Aztecs. Corn tortillas, which were a staple food of the Aztec diet, were commonly used to wrap fillings and then dipped in sauces. Over the centuries, enchiladas evolved to include a wide variety of fillings, from meats to cheeses and vegetables, with different regional variations across Mexico.
The term “Suizas” adds a layer of intrigue to the dish. It is believed that the name “Suizas” was given due to the Swiss-inspired creaminess of the sauce. While the exact origins of Enchiladas Suizas remain a bit of a mystery, it is thought to have been created in central Mexico, perhaps as a way to adapt the traditional enchilada recipe to the tastes of the French or European influences that were prevalent in the 19th century. Some sources suggest that it was popularized in Mexico City in the mid-20th century, where it quickly became a favorite in Mexican restaurants and households alike.
Why You’ll Love Enchiladas Suizas
There are several reasons why Enchiladas Suizas has earned its spot in the hearts of many food lovers. First, the creamy green sauce is an irresistible combination of tangy, mild heat and smooth texture. The sauce itself, often made from tomatillos, cilantro, and a touch of garlic, gives each bite a burst of fresh, vibrant flavors that perfectly complement the shredded chicken.
Second, this dish is incredibly versatile. While it’s traditionally made with shredded chicken, it can easily be adapted to suit other protein preferences such as beef, pork, or even a vegetarian version with mushrooms or beans. The creamy sauce is the star of the show, enhancing any protein you choose to stuff inside the tortillas.
Moreover, the fact that Enchiladas Suizas can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving makes it an excellent choice for meal prep or entertaining. You can prepare the dish in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it when you’re ready to eat. This convenience, combined with the fact that it’s a crowd-pleaser, makes Enchiladas Suizas a perfect choice for busy families or dinner parties.
The Essential Ingredients of Enchiladas Suizas
The ingredients in Enchiladas Suizas are simple, yet they come together to create a beautifully rich and flavorful dish. The foundation of the recipe consists of tortillas, typically corn, which are filled with a protein such as shredded chicken. The chicken is then smothered in a smooth green sauce, traditionally made from tomatillos, chilies, garlic, and onions, with the option to add sour cream or crema for extra richness.
Cheese is a must for the topping. Monterey Jack is often used due to its meltability and mild flavor, but you can also use a Mexican cheese blend for a more traditional taste. The creamy texture of the sauce and cheese, paired with the tender chicken and soft tortillas, creates the ultimate comfort food. Garnishing with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream or more crema provides the perfect finishing touch.
Making Enchiladas Suizas: Tips and Tricks for Perfection
-
Choosing the Right Tortillas: Corn tortillas are the traditional choice for Enchiladas Suizas, but you can also use flour tortillas if you prefer. Corn tortillas provide a more authentic flavor and texture, but flour tortillas will give the dish a lighter, softer feel. If using corn tortillas, it’s essential to lightly fry them before rolling to prevent them from becoming soggy once the sauce is added.
-
The Sauce Makes the Dish: The green sauce is a crucial element in Enchiladas Suizas, and it should be flavorful and balanced. You can make it from scratch using tomatillos, cilantro, garlic, and jalapeños, or opt for a store-bought salsa verde for convenience. Either way, be sure to taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, lime juice, or chili for an extra kick.
-
Shredded Chicken Options: While rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for busy nights, you can also cook your own chicken by simmering it in a pot of water or chicken broth, then shredding it once it’s cooked through. You can add a bit of seasoning or spices to the chicken to give it more flavor if desired.
-
Topping Variations: While Monterey Jack cheese is a popular choice, feel free to get creative with your toppings. A blend of cheeses such as cheddar or queso fresco can add a different flavor profile. You can also sprinkle extra cilantro or even some avocado slices on top for added freshness.
-
Make Ahead: If you’re preparing this dish in advance, assemble the enchiladas, cover them with foil, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to serve, just pop them in the oven and bake as usual.
Serving Suggestions for Enchiladas Suizas
Enchiladas Suizas can be served as a stand-alone dish, but for a complete meal, pair it with a variety of sides. A traditional Mexican side like refried beans, Mexican rice, or a fresh, zesty salad makes the meal even more satisfying. For an extra kick, you can serve the enchiladas with a side of pickled jalapeños or some fresh lime wedges.
If you’re looking to make your meal a little lighter, serve Enchiladas Suizas with a fresh, crunchy slaw or a simple avocado salad. The creaminess of the enchiladas pairs perfectly with something bright and acidic, offering a nice contrast to the richness of the dish.
How to Customize Your Enchiladas Suizas
One of the best things about Enchiladas Suizas is that it is easy to customize to suit your dietary preferences and taste. If you prefer a spicier version, you can add more jalapeños or even use a hotter salsa verde. For a milder taste, simply use a less spicy green sauce or omit the chilies entirely.
For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with beans, vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or even mushrooms. These alternatives still provide a satisfying texture while keeping the dish hearty and flavorful. Vegan versions can be made by using plant-based cheese and sour cream alternatives.
If you enjoy different textures in your food, you can also try adding crunchy toppings like toasted pumpkin seeds or crushed tortilla chips for some added crunch.
Conclusion
Enchiladas Suizas are the epitome of comfort food. With their creamy, flavorful green sauce and tender shredded chicken wrapped in soft tortillas, they offer a satisfying and indulgent meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. This dish is versatile, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Whether you stick with the traditional chicken filling or opt for your own twist, Enchiladas Suizas is sure to be a hit. The next time you’re craving a warm, cheesy dish that brings the tastes of Mexico to your kitchen, Enchiladas Suizas is the way to go.
This recipe not only delivers amazing flavor but also provides the perfect opportunity to explore different fillings, sauces, and toppings. Experiment with various variations, and make this dish your own!