Mexico By Food Enthusiasts · 6 min read

National Dish Mexico: Enchiladas Suizas (Recipe)

Enchiladas Suizas topped with melted cheese, sour cream and fresh coriander

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Meet Enchiladas Suizas, one of Mexico’s most comforting baked classics! Tender corn tortillas are rolled around juicy shredded chicken, smothered in a creamy green chilli sauce and finished under a golden blanket of melted cheese. It is a generous, sociable dish that practically begs to be shared, making it just right for a relaxed family supper or a lively gathering with friends. Every forkful brings together bright, fresh flavours that win people over time and time again.

About Enchiladas Suizas

Enchiladas Suizas are a traditional Mexican dish that delivers as much on looks as it does on taste. The pairing of soft tortillas, succulent chicken and a creamy green chilli sauce turns this dish into a real treat for the senses. It is a firm favourite for family and friends alike, as it is easy to share and lends itself beautifully to celebrations and get-togethers. You will find yourself charmed again and again by the bold, layered aromas that meet in every single bite.

Ingredients (serves 1–2)

2 large corn tortillas
200 g cooked chicken breast, shredded
200 ml green chilli sauce
100 g grated cheese (such as Monterey Jack or Cheddar)
1/2 cup sour cream
A little fresh coriander, to garnish
Salt and pepper, to taste

Shopping for the ingredients

To make the best Enchiladas Suizas, you will want fresh, good-quality ingredients. It is worth a trip to a Mexican grocery to track down the finest selection of chilli sauces and cheese. When choosing your chicken, look for meat that is tender and well seasoned, as this has a real bearing on the overall impression of the dish. Good-quality tortillas are equally important, so they hold together and do not tear as you fill them.

Preparing the dish

Getting ready to make Enchiladas Suizas could hardly be simpler, and the prep builds a pleasant sense of anticipation for the cooking itself. Start by shredding the chicken and gently warming the green chilli sauce in a small pan. This coaxes even more flavour from the sauce and keeps the tortillas from going cold as you fill them. Don’t forget to preheat the oven to 180°C as well, ready to give the enchiladas a lovely golden finish at the end.

Step-by-step instructions

Warm the tortillas briefly in a pan so they turn soft and pliable.
Fill one tortilla with a portion of shredded chicken and a little chilli sauce.
Roll the tortilla up and place it seam-side down in an ovenproof dish.
Repeat the process with the second tortilla.
Spoon the remaining chilli sauce evenly over the enchiladas.
Scatter over the grated cheese and bake for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden.
Before serving, garnish with sour cream and fresh coriander.

Gluten-free / lactose-free version

For a gluten-free take on Enchiladas Suizas, reach for one of the dedicated gluten-free tortillas now stocked by many supermarkets. Take care with the cheese too, choosing certified gluten-free products. Anyone who is lactose intolerant can swap the sour cream for a lactose-free alternative or a plant-based yoghurt to keep that creamy finish. These small adjustments mean you can enjoy all the flavour of the enchiladas without having to work around food intolerances.

Tips for vegans and vegetarians

For a vegan or vegetarian version of Enchiladas Suizas, replace the chicken with a mix of sautéed vegetables, black beans or tofu. Just be sure the green chilli sauce is vegan too. For the topping, a good plant-based cheese — widely available these days — melts down nicely under the grill. With tweaks like these, everyone can tuck into the delicious flavours of the enchiladas, whatever their eating habits.

More tips and tricks

To dial up the flavour of your Enchiladas Suizas, stir a few extra spices into the filling, such as cumin or paprika. A squeeze of fresh lime juice over the finished enchiladas adds a bright, refreshing lift. A scattering of avocado or some homemade guacamole makes the dish feel that bit more special. Experiment with different chilli sauces, too, until you land on the version that is truly yours.

Adapting the recipe to your taste

Enchiladas Suizas are a wonderfully flexible dish that takes happily to personal tweaks. Add extra vegetables such as courgette or peppers for more colour and goodness. If you like things fiery, sharpen the chilli sauce with fresh jalapeños or a little hot pepper. The cheese leaves room for creativity as well, so every bite can reflect your own taste, much like the cheesy comfort of Queso Fundido con Chorizo.

Ingredient substitutions

If you find yourself short of a few ingredients, you can usually swap in alternatives without much fuss. Reduced-fat cheese stands in for full-fat grated cheese with no real loss of flavour. The tortillas can also be made with wholemeal flour for a more wholesome approach, in the spirit of the homemade Tortillas de Harina. Vary the filling with different proteins, such as beef or vegetarian options, to keep discovering new flavour combinations.

Drink pairing ideas

Enchiladas Suizas go beautifully with refreshing drinks such as a classic Margarita or a Tequila Sunrise. For those who prefer something alcohol-free, a fresh watermelon smoothie or hibiscus iced tea is an ideal choice. These drinks not only offer a lovely contrast to the savoury enchiladas but also round off the Mexican experience perfectly. A cold Mexican beer makes a very welcome companion to the dish as well.

Serving and presentation ideas

A thoughtful presentation can lift the whole Enchiladas Suizas experience. Serve them in a bright, decorative ovenproof dish and garnish generously with fresh coriander. You might also set out an extra bowl of sour cream or guacamole, so everyone can help themselves to as much as they like. A border of lime wedges adds a final flourish of colour and a hit of fresh aroma.

A bit of history

Enchiladas Suizas have their origins in Mexico and form part of the rich tradition of Mexican cuisine. They are thought to have grown popular in the 19th century, taking their name from the Spanish word enchilar, meaning “to season with chilli”. The label Suizas — “Swiss” — refers to the generous use of cheese, a nod to Switzerland’s dairy heritage. This blend of cultural influences makes Enchiladas Suizas a special dish, one that has won hearts well beyond Mexico’s borders.

More recipe ideas

Summary: Enchiladas Suizas

Enchiladas Suizas are a perfect showcase for the variety and bold flavours of Mexican cooking. The dish brings together tender tortillas, juicy chicken and a creamy sauce that makes any meal feel like an occasion. Whether for a larger dinner or a quick midday plate, the enchiladas delight every time. Let this recipe inspire you and bring a little piece of Mexico into your own kitchen!