Chilaquiles Rojos (A Healthy Twist on a Classic Mexican Breakfast Dish)

5 from 1 vote

May 18, 2023, Updated May 29, 2023

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Chilaquiles is a typical dish in Mexican cuisine that is prepared with corn tortillas cut into triangles and fried, then bathed in a chili sauce (red or green) and served with fresh cheese, onion, and cream. They can also be accompanied with meat, beans or eggs as desired. It is a very popular dish for breakfast or brunch in Mexico.

Of course, the traditional recipe for chilaquiles is not the healthiest option, but with a few easy adjustments, you can still enjoy this delicious dish. Instead of frying the tortillas in oil, you can cut them into strips and toast them in the oven or in a non-stick skillet to reduce the amount of fat.

Use a low-fat and low-calorie red salsa, and instead of using sour cream and cream cheese, you can use fresh cheese and chicken to lighten up the recipe.

Why you should try these Red Chilaquiles

Healthy Chilaquiles Rojos are a great option for those who want to enjoy this traditional Mexican dish without sacrificing their healthy lifestyle. By using lower-fat and calorie ingredients like baked tortilla chips, a light tomato-based sauce, and fresh cheese and eggs instead of heavy cream, chilaquiles can be a delicious and healthy option.
They are perfect for sharing with friends as a tasty and satisfying snack or as an ideal brunch dish.
Plus, they are easy to prepare, making them a convenient choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Chilaquiles Rojos Recipe Overview

Makes 4 generous servings
5 points per serving if you follow WW
Prep time about 10 minutes
Cook time about 20 minutes

Ingredients in Red Chilaquiles:

8 light corn tortillas, size large
1 ½ cup red salsa (I used Herdez) 360 g.
½ cup crumbled queso fresco
4 radishes, thinly sliced
¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
4 large eggs
2 lime wedges
Jalapenos (optional)
1 bunch of fresh cilantro
Salt and pepper to taste

Quick note on the Ingredients

Light corn tortillas: Corn tortillas that are lower in calories and fat than regular ones. Brands such as Mission or La Tortilla Factory make light versions of corn tortillas.
Light red salsa: A sauce made from tomatoes, chiles, and spices that is specifically designed for making chilaquiles. Look for brands such as Herdez or La Costeña that offer light versions of their red chilaquiles sauce.
Queso Fresco: A crumbly, tangy cheese that is commonly used in Mexican cuisine. Queso fresco is a good option and can be found in most grocery stores.
Radishes: A root vegetable that adds a crisp, refreshing flavor and crunch to the dish. Look for fresh, firm radishes at your local farmers’ market or grocery store.
Red onions: A mild onion that adds a sweet, tangy flavor to the dish. Red onions can be found at most grocery stores.
Eggs: Fried eggs cooked in a non-stick pan.
Lime wedges: Lime wedges add a bright, acidic flavor to the dish. Use fresh limes and cut into wedges just before serving.

How to make Chilaquiles Rojos:

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cut the tortillas into triangles and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until they are crispy and lightly browned.
In a medium saucepan, heat the chilaquiles sauce over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
Add the baked tortilla chips to the saucepan and toss until they are evenly coated with the sauce.
Divide the chilaquiles onto four plates and sprinkle each plate with fresh cheese, sliced radishes, and red onions.
In a non-stick skillet, fry the eggs to your desired level of doneness.
Place one fried egg on top of each plate of chilaquiles, top with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side. Enjoy!

Variations and substitutions

Replace queso fresco with low-fat Greek yogurt to lower points.
Substitute fried eggs cooked in a non-stick pan with shredded chicken.
Use homemade low-fat red salsa instead of store-bought salsa.
Add vegetables such as spinach or broccoli to increase fiber and vitamin content.
Make the recipe chilaquiles verde by using this roasted poblano salsa recipe instead of the red salsa.

Tips and Tricks Section for Making Chilaquiles Rojos

Don’t overcook them: Chilaquiles should be crispy, not soggy. Cook them just enough to be crispy and stay that way even after adding the salsa.
If you prefer your chilaquiles a little more soupy simply add more salsa.
Decorate at the end: Add decorative ingredients, such as fresh cheese, radishes, and purple onions, just before serving to keep them fresh and crispy.

If you like these Chilaquiles you’ll love this delicious arepas recipe.

If you are looking for even more delicious breakfast options check out these 23 mexican breakfast ideas.

Categorized as:
All recipes, Breakfast