Enchiladas Suizas: Creamy, Comforting, and Bursting with Flavor

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Enchiladas Suizas take the beloved enchilada to a whole new level. With a creamy tomatillo sauce and a cheesy finish, these enchiladas are not only indulgent but also packed with fresh flavors. The smooth tomatillo-cream sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken filling, while the melted cheese adds richness. Whether you’re cooking for guests or craving a comforting meal, this dish delivers warmth, satisfaction, and a burst of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the filling:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Suizas sauce:

• 1 pound fresh tomatillos, husked and rinsed

• 1–2 jalapeños or serrano peppers (adjust to heat preference)

• 1 cup Mexican crema or sour cream

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Oaxaca cheese

• 1 tablespoon butter

• Salt to taste

Additional:

• 8–10 corn tortillas

• Fresh cilantro for garnish

• Lime wedges for serving

Directions

1. Prepare the Sauce
   Place tomatillos and peppers in a pot of boiling water. Cook for 5–7 minutes, until soft. Drain and transfer to a blender. Add chicken broth and blend until smooth.

   In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Pour in the tomatillo puree and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in Mexican crema or sour cream and salt. Keep the sauce warm on low heat.

2. Prepare the Filling
   Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic in a pan until translucent. Add the shredded chicken, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and heat through.

3. Soften the Tortillas
   Lightly warm the tortillas on a skillet or in the microwave until pliable for rolling.

4. Assemble the Enchiladas
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Dip each tortilla briefly into the warm sauce. Then, add a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture to each tortilla. Roll tightly and place the enchiladas seam side down in a baking dish.

5. Top and Bake
   Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the rolled enchiladas. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Garnish and Serve
   Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for added brightness.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 20 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can be added to the chicken filling for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Use Different Proteins: Swap chicken for shredded beef for a different take on the dish.

• Make it Spicy: Add extra jalapeños or a dash of chipotle chili powder to the sauce for more heat.

• Cheese Options: Try different cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or even a mix of cheeses for variation.

• Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with black beans or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.

• Freezing: These enchiladas freeze well. Assemble the enchiladas, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make Enchiladas Suizas ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas a day in advance, cover them, and store them in the fridge. Bake just before serving.

Can I use store-bought enchilada sauce instead of making the tomatillo sauce?

While homemade sauce is preferred for authentic flavor, store-bought enchilada sauce can be used in a pinch. Just keep in mind it won’t have the same creamy, tangy profile.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

Yes, flour tortillas can be used, but corn tortillas are traditionally used for their flavor and texture.

How can I make the sauce milder?

Reduce the number of jalapeños or serrano peppers, or remove the seeds to lessen the heat.

Can I make these enchiladas gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use corn tortillas that are certified gluten-free.

Can I add extra cheese on top?

Yes, adding extra cheese will give the enchiladas an extra creamy texture and a cheesy golden finish.

How do I make the sauce dairy-free?

Substitute Mexican crema with coconut cream or a dairy-free sour cream, and use a dairy-free cheese for topping.

Can I use a slow cooker to make these?

Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas in the slow cooker, layering the tortillas, chicken, and sauce, then cook on low for 4-6 hours.

Can I make these vegetarian?

Yes, swap the chicken for beans, tofu, or sautéed vegetables to make a delicious vegetarian version.

How long do leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftover enchiladas will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Enchiladas Suizas are the perfect comfort food, combining tender chicken, creamy tomatillo sauce, and melted cheese in a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re serving them for dinner or preparing a meal for the week ahead, these enchiladas are sure to impress with their balanced flavors and rich textures. With endless possibilities for variations, this recipe is one you can return to time and time again.