Spicy Serrano Tomato Chilaquiles with Fried Egg and Queso Fresco Recipe
Introduction
Chilaquiles are a traditional Mexican breakfast favorite featuring crispy tortilla chips bathed in a flavorful tomato and serrano chili sauce. Topped with fried eggs, crema, and queso fresco, this dish is a perfect balance of textures and bold flavors to start your day.

Ingredients
- 0.5 kilogram white corn tortillas
- As needed olive oil
- 5 serrano chilies
- 3 tomatoes
- 1/2 onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- Salt to taste
- Ground black pepper to taste
- 4 eggs
- Mexican crema to taste
- Queso fresco to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Cut the white corn tortillas into quarters. Arrange them on a baking tray and drizzle with olive oil as needed. Bake them in the oven for a few minutes until they start to brown and become crispy.
- Step 2: Clean the serrano chilies by cutting them in half and removing the seeds. Toast the chilies and tomatoes on a comal or dry pan until slightly charred.
- Step 3: Blend the toasted tomatoes, serrano chilies, onion, garlic, and ¼ cup of water until smooth to make the sauce.
- Step 4: Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a pot. Pour in the blended sauce and season with salt and ground black pepper. Let it simmer for a few minutes to develop flavor.
- Step 5: Pour the sauce over the freshly baked tortilla chips on a serving plate.
- Step 6: Fry the eggs to your preference and place them on top of the chilaquiles.
- Step 7: Garnish with Mexican crema and crumbled queso fresco before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra heat, keep some serrano seeds or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Try substituting serrano chilies with jalapeños for a milder flavor.
- Use store-bought tortilla chips if short on time, but fresh baked gives the best texture.
- Top with sliced avocado or cilantro for a fresh touch.
Storage
Store leftover chilaquiles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to keep the chips from becoming too soggy. It is best enjoyed fresh, as the tortillas will soften over time.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make chilaquiles without eggs?
Yes, chilaquiles are delicious on their own or topped with other proteins like shredded chicken or queso fresco for a vegetarian option.
What can I substitute for Mexican crema?
If you don’t have Mexican crema, sour cream is a good substitute that provides a similar tangy creaminess.
Print
Spicy Serrano Tomato Chilaquiles with Fried Egg and Queso Fresco Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Chilaquiles is a traditional Mexican dish featuring crispy corn tortilla chips baked and topped with a flavorful tomato and serrano chili sauce, finished with fried eggs, Mexican crema, and queso fresco. This comforting breakfast or brunch option combines crunchy textures with spicy, tangy, and creamy elements for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chips
- 0.5 kilogram White Corn Tortilla
- Olive Oil, as needed
Sauce
- 5 Serrano Chilies
- 3 Tomatoes
- 1/2 Onion
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 1/4 cup Water
- Salt, to taste
- Ground Black Pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for cooking sauce)
Toppings
- 4 Eggs
- Mexican Crema, to taste
- Queso Fresco, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the tortilla chips: Cut the white corn tortillas into quarters. Arrange them on a baking tray and drizzle with a few drops of olive oil. Bake in the oven for several minutes until they begin to brown and become crispy.
- Toast the chilies and tomatoes: Clean the serrano chilies by halving them and removing the seeds. Place the chilies and tomatoes on a comal or flat griddle to lightly toast, enhancing their flavor.
- Make the sauce: Combine the toasted tomatoes and chilies, onion, garlic, and 1/4 cup of water in a blender. Blend until smooth to create the sauce.
- Cook the sauce: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the blended sauce along with salt and ground black pepper to taste. Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine chips and sauce: Pour the cooked sauce over the freshly baked tortilla chips on a serving plate, ensuring the chips are well coated.
- Fry the eggs: Fry the eggs to your liking in a pan with a bit of oil or butter. Place the fried eggs on top of the chilaquiles.
- Add toppings and serve: Garnish with Mexican crema and crumbled queso fresco according to your taste. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- You can adjust the heat level by using fewer serrano chilies or removing all their seeds.
- For a gluten-free meal, ensure the tortillas are 100% corn without additives.
- Substitute Mexican crema with sour cream if needed.
- Leftover chilaquiles can be stored refrigerated for up to 2 days but may lose crispiness.
- Adding sliced avocado or refried beans can enhance the dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Keywords: Chilaquiles, Mexican breakfast, tortilla chips, serrano chili, Mexican crema, queso fresco, baked tortilla chips, traditional Mexican dish

