Five Great Spots for the best Chilaquiles in Texas!

Elliot F.
Jun 15, 2024
3 min read

Chilaquiles are a beloved traditional Mexican dish often enjoyed for breakfast or brunch. They are made with fried or toasted tortilla pieces, typically cut into quarters, which are simmered in a red (tomato-based) or green (tomatillo-based) sauce until slightly softened. The tortillas are then garnished with ingredients such as crumbled queso fresco or grated cotija, Mexican crema, thinly sliced onions, fresh avocado slices, chopped cilantro, and frequently, fried or scrambled eggs. Additional proteins like shredded chicken or beef can be included. Chilaquiles can be further personalized with toppings like beans, radishes, or chorizo, and are often paired with refried beans or guacamole. Known for their comforting and hearty nature, chilaquiles are a popular choice for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Although not as famous as tacos or enchiladas, chilaquiles are gaining popularity as more people discover this delightful dish, which resembles a crispy breakfast casserole or "Mexican Frito pie." Its versatility allows it to be enjoyed at lunch or dinner as well. The dish offers a satisfying mix of textures and flavors, making it an appealing option for any meal.

Chilaquiles are sometimes confused with migas, which also incorporate fresh tortilla chips or strips. However, chilaquiles stand out because they are not mixed with eggs to create a breakfast taco or a main ranchero-style entrée. Instead, they feature corn tortillas cut into quarters, lightly fried or baked. The tortillas can be topped with sunny-side-up eggs, chicken, or steak, drizzled with cream, and loaded with cotija cheese, which contrasts beautifully with the red or green salsas they are sautéed in. They can appear as a mound of nachos or, if round tostada-style chips are used, as a stack of savory pancakes.

In Texas, restaurants serve chilaquiles in various styles, making them visually appealing and flavorful. Angel Aguirre, owner of Los Chilaquiles in Seguin, emphasizes the dish's visual appeal and rich flavors. His restaurant offers chilaquiles with bright roja or verde sauce, or ranchero style, accompanied by avocado, refried beans, home fries, a roasted pepper, and green onion. Aguirre notes that chilaquiles are meant to "awaken the appetite" and provide a fulfilling dining experience.

For those seeking the best chilaquiles in Texas, several standout spots are renowned for their delicious versions of this traditional dish. In Austin, Los Chilakillers offers a variety of chilaquiles with options like smoky chipotle sauce and Monterrey jack cheese, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts. The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation in Houston is famous for its chilaquiles verdes, served with fried eggs, onions, cilantro, and tomatillo salsa. Forti’s Mexican Elder Restaurant in El Paso offers both green and red chilaquiles for breakfast, praised for their authentic flavors and hearty portions.

In Seguin, Los Chilaquiles Mexican Restaurant serves chilaquiles in the Guerrero style, with bright roja or verde sauce, avocado, refried beans, home fries, and a roasted pepper, making it a local favorite. Dallas's Latin Deli offers a verde-sauce chilaquiles dish with scrambled eggs, avocado, mozzarella, sour cream, and a choice of chicken, fajita beef, or chorizo, providing a delightful and satisfying option for breakfast or brunch.

These establishments showcase the diversity and richness of chilaquiles across Texas, each adding a unique touch to this beloved dish. From vibrant flavors and presentations to customizable options, chilaquiles continue to captivate the palates of diners throughout the state.

Forti’s Mexican Elder Restaurant

321 Chelsea St, El Paso, TX 79905

(915) 772-0066

www.fortisrestaurants.com

Los Chilaquiles Mexican Restaurant

2108 N Austin St, Seguin, TX 78155

(830) 491-5144

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Latin Deli: Dallas, Texas

5844 Abrams Rd,Dallas, Tx 75214

(214) 363-5551

www.latindelidallas.com