Chicken

Chicken Chilaquiles

Name: Chicken Chilaquiles
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, boneless; 1 cup (120g) crispy tortilla chips; 2 cups (400g) diced tomatoes; 1/4 cup (60g) chopped onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp (5g) ground cumin; 1 tsp (5g) smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp (2g) cayenne pepper; 1/2 tsp (2g) salt; 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper; 2 tbsp (30g) butter; 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth; 1/2 cup (120g) shredded cheese

By Maren Tremaine · June 19, 2026 · Chicken

Prep20 min

Cook30 min

Total50 min

Serves4

I still remember the first time I tried Chicken Chilaquiles at a local Mexican restaurant. The combination of crispy tortilla chips, shredded chicken, and spicy tomato sauce was love at first bite. As a low-carb keto cook, I was determined to recreate this dish at home, using real food and flavor. After some trial and error, I finally perfected my Chicken Chilaquiles recipe, and I'm excited to share it with you.

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, as it's easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour. The best part is that it's highly customizable, so you can adjust the level of heat and the toppings to your liking. Whether you're a keto beginner or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.

One of the things I love about this recipe is that it's a great way to use up leftover chicken. Simply shred or chop the cooked chicken and add it to the dish. You can also customize the toppings to your liking, using everything from diced onions and sour cream to sliced avocado and cilantro.

In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of crispy tortilla chips, shredded chicken, and a rich tomato sauce to create a dish that's both flavorful and satisfying. We'll also be adding some spices and seasonings to give it an extra boost of flavor. So let's get started and see how to make this delicious Chicken Chilaquiles recipe!

As a home cook, I know how important it is to have a recipe that's easy to follow and uses ingredients that are readily available. That's why I've made sure to include only the most essential ingredients and steps in this recipe. So whether you're a busy weeknight cook or a weekend warrior, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour
It's highly customizable, so you can adjust the level of heat and the toppings to your liking
It's a great way to use up leftover chicken
It's a satisfying and flavorful dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner
It's keto-friendly and can be adapted to fit your dietary needs
It's a great source of protein and fiber, making it a nutritious and balanced meal

Why This Recipe Works

So what makes this Chicken Chilaquiles recipe so special? For starters, it's the combination of crispy tortilla chips and shredded chicken that creates a satisfying texture. The tomato sauce adds a rich and tangy flavor, while the spices and seasonings provide an extra boost of heat and flavor.

Another key factor is the use of high-quality ingredients. By using fresh and flavorful ingredients, we can create a dish that's not only delicious but also nutritious. The chicken provides a good source of protein, while the tomato sauce and spices add fiber and vitamins.

Finally, it's the technique that makes this recipe work. By cooking the chicken and tomato sauce separately, we can create a dish that's both flavorful and textured. The crispy tortilla chips add a satisfying crunch, while the shredded chicken and tomato sauce provide a creamy and tangy base.

Overall, this Chicken Chilaquiles recipe is a winner because it's easy to make, customizable, and delicious. Whether you're a keto beginner or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Chicken Chilaquiles recipe, you'll need a few essential ingredients. These include shredded chicken, crispy tortilla chips, diced tomatoes, and a range of spices and seasonings. You'll also need some oil and butter for cooking, as well as some cheese and sour cream for topping.

When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose high-quality and fresh items. This will help to ensure that your dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. You can find most of the ingredients at your local grocery store, and you may already have some of them in your pantry.

1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, bonelessYou can use either boneless or bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe, but boneless is preferred for ease of shredding. Look for fresh and hormone-free chicken for the best flavor and texture.
1 cup (120g) crispy tortilla chipsYou can use either store-bought or homemade tortilla chips for this recipe. If using store-bought, look for a low-carb or keto-friendly option to keep the dish on track.
2 cups (400g) diced tomatoesFresh or canned diced tomatoes work well for this recipe. If using canned, look for a low-sodium option to keep the dish healthy.
1/4 cup (60g) chopped onionYou can use either yellow or white onion for this recipe, depending on your preference. Look for a fresh and sweet onion for the best flavor.
2 cloves garlic, mincedFresh garlic is essential for this recipe, as it adds a rich and pungent flavor. Look for firm and fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
1 tsp (5g) ground cuminGround cumin adds a warm and earthy flavor to the dish. Look for a high-quality and fresh spice for the best flavor.
1 tsp (5g) smoked paprikaSmoked paprika adds a smoky and slightly sweet flavor to the dish. Look for a high-quality and fresh spice for the best flavor.
1/2 tsp (2g) cayenne pepperCayenne pepper adds a spicy kick to the dish. Look for a high-quality and fresh spice for the best flavor, and adjust to taste.
1/2 tsp (2g) saltSalt enhances the flavor of the dish and helps to bring out the other ingredients. Look for a high-quality and fresh salt for the best flavor.
1/4 tsp (1g) black pepperBlack pepper adds a sharp and peppery flavor to the dish. Look for a high-quality and fresh pepper for the best flavor.
2 tbsp (30g) butterButter adds a rich and creamy flavor to the dish. Look for a high-quality and fresh butter for the best flavor.
1 cup (240ml) chicken brothChicken broth adds moisture and flavor to the dish. Look for a low-sodium option to keep the dish healthy.
1/2 cup (120g) shredded cheeseShredded cheese adds a creamy and tangy flavor to the dish. Look for a high-quality and fresh cheese for the best flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or wokSharp chef's knifeInstant-read thermometerCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or spatula

How to Make Chicken Chilaquiles

1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
In a large bowl, whisk together the cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to coat with the spice mixture.
4
Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side.
5
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C).
6
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before shredding it into bite-sized pieces.
7
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
8
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
9
Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and shredded chicken to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
10
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
11
Add the crispy tortilla chips to the skillet and stir to combine with the chicken and sauce.
12
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the tortilla chips are crispy and golden brown.
13
Remove the skillet from the oven and top with shredded cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Expert Tips

Use high-quality and fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
Adjust the level of heat to your liking by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
Add some diced bell peppers or other vegetables to the skillet for added flavor and nutrition.
Use leftover chicken or turkey for a quick and easy meal.
Experiment with different types of cheese and spices to find your favorite combination.
Make this recipe in advance and refrigerate or freeze for later use.
Add some fresh cilantro or scallions on top for a fresh and flavorful garnish.
Serve with a side of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy and tangy contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not cooking the chicken to a safe internal temperature, which can lead to foodborne illness.
Not using high-quality and fresh ingredients, which can result in a bland or unappetizing dish.
Overcrowding the skillet, which can lead to steamed instead of browned chicken and vegetables.
Not letting the dish rest before serving, which can result in a dry and overcooked texture.
Not adjusting the level of heat to your liking, which can lead to a dish that is too spicy or too bland.
Not experimenting with different ingredients and spices, which can result in a boring and uninteresting dish.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some diced ham or bacon for a smoky and savory flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, for a unique flavor profile.
Add some sautéed mushrooms or other vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.
Use leftover turkey or roast beef for a different protein option.
Experiment with different types of tortilla chips, such as whole wheat or corn, for a different texture and flavor.
Add some diced jalapenos or other hot peppers for an extra spicy kick.
Use Greek yogurt or sour cream as a topping for a creamy and tangy contrast.

What to Serve With Chicken Chilaquiles

This Chicken Chilaquiles recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, and can be served with a variety of sides and toppings. Some ideas include a simple green salad, a side of sautéed vegetables, or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as shredded cheddar or crumbled queso fresco, for a unique flavor profile.

For a more substantial meal, you can serve the Chicken Chilaquiles with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or roasted vegetables. You can also add some diced avocado or sliced radishes on top for a fresh and flavorful garnish. Whatever you choose, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Serve with a simple green saladServe with a side of sautéed vegetablesServe with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurtServe with a side of Mexican rice or black beansServe with diced avocado or sliced radishes on top

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This Chicken Chilaquiles recipe can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen for later use. To refrigerate, simply cool the dish to room temperature and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To freeze, cool the dish to room temperature and transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.

To reheat, simply thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick and easy meal.

When reheating, be sure to stir the dish occasionally to prevent burning or sticking. You can also add a splash of chicken broth or water to the dish to prevent drying out. With proper storage and reheating, this recipe can be enjoyed for days to come.

In addition to refrigerating or freezing, you can also make this recipe in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Simply prepare the dish as instructed, but do not bake until just before serving. This will help to preserve the texture and flavor of the dish, and ensure that it is fresh and delicious when served.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of chicken to use for this recipe?

You can use either boneless or bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe, but boneless is preferred for ease of shredding. Look for fresh and hormone-free chicken for the best flavor and texture.

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use leftover chicken for this recipe. Simply shred or chop the cooked chicken and add it to the dish.

What is the best type of cheese to use for this recipe?

You can use a variety of cheeses for this recipe, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco. Look for a high-quality and fresh cheese for the best flavor.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make this recipe in advance and refrigerate or freeze for later use. Simply cool the dish to room temperature and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

What is the best way to reheat this recipe?

Can I customize this recipe to my taste?

Yes, you can customize this recipe to your taste by adding different spices, cheeses, or toppings. Experiment with different ingredients and flavors to find your favorite combination.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is keto-friendly, as it uses low-carb ingredients and is free from added sugars and grains. However, be sure to check the ingredients and nutrition information to ensure that it fits within your daily keto macros.

Can I serve this recipe as a main dish or side dish?

This recipe can be served as either a main dish or side dish, depending on your needs and preferences. It's a hearty and satisfying dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner, but can also be served as a side dish for a special occasion or holiday meal.

The Full Recipe

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