Enchiladas Suizas

The comforting magic of Enchiladas Suizas lies in their velvety texture and zesty flavor. Rolled corn tortillas are filled with tender shredded chicken, then blanketed in a creamy green sauce made with Mexican crema, green chiles, and gooey melted cheese. It’s a dish that brings warmth and heart to your dinner table.

Inspired by Swiss-style enchiladas popular in central Mexico, this version is a crowd-pleaser and weeknight-friendly. The combination of mild heat from jalapeños, richness from the sauce, and perfectly melted cheese makes every bite irresistible. Pair with a side of Mexican rice or a crisp salad for a complete meal your family will ask for again and again.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast

• 12 corn tortillas

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 1/4 cup finely chopped white onion

• 2 cups Mexican crema (or sour cream)

• 1 cup milk

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

• Salt to taste

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup chopped pickled jalapeños (optional)

• 1/2 cup chopped green chiles (canned or roasted)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux.

3. Slowly pour in the milk and chicken broth, whisking until smooth. Let simmer for 3–4 minutes, until slightly thickened.

4. Stir in the Mexican crema, green chiles, pickled jalapeños (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for another 3 minutes, then remove from heat.

5. Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly oil it. Warm each tortilla for 10–15 seconds on each side to make them pliable.

6. Fill each tortilla with shredded chicken and a small sprinkle of Monterey Jack cheese. Roll tightly and place seam side down in a greased baking dish.

7. Pour the creamy sauce over the enchiladas, making sure they’re completely covered.

8. Top with the remaining cheeses and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

9. Garnish with chopped cilantro and chopped onion before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 410 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Creamy Chicken Enchiladas (Enchiladas Suizas): A Delicious Mexican Classic

When it comes to authentic Mexican comfort food, few dishes hit the spot quite like Enchiladas Suizas. These creamy, cheesy chicken enchiladas are a cozy, indulgent meal that brings warmth and tradition straight to your dinner table. The name “Suizas” (which means “Swiss” in Spanish) may sound European, but these enchiladas are proudly Mexican with a fascinating history, incredible flavors, and endless versatility.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into what makes Enchiladas Suizas so special, exploring their origins, ingredients, flavor profile, regional variations, and some personal tips for getting that perfect creamy consistency. Whether you’re new to Mexican cuisine or an experienced home cook, you’ll find inspiration and insight to elevate this dish and make it a family favorite.

The Origins of Enchiladas Suizas

While enchiladas themselves have roots dating back to Aztec times, where tortillas were often used as vessels for wrapping meats, beans, or vegetables, the specific variety known as Enchiladas Suizas has a more modern twist. It’s believed that this dish originated in the early 20th century at Sanborns, a popular chain of restaurants and department stores in Mexico City.

The name “Suizas” (Swiss) refers to the creamy, dairy-rich sauce that blankets the enchiladas—, n influence from Swiss immigrants or, more broadly, European culinary traditions that favor cheese and cream-based sauces. Over time, this dish evolved into a beloved staple in central Mexico, often served in homes and restaurants alike.

What sets it apart from other enchiladas is that velvety green sauce, a blend of green chiles, crema, cheese, and sometimes a béchamel-like base to give it body and richness.

The Key Ingredients That Make the Magic

One of the best things about Enchiladas Suizas is how simple, affordable ingredients come together to make a luxurious dish. Here’s a breakdown of what makes this recipe so unique:

1. Chicken

Shredded chicken breast is the most common protein used. It’s tender, neutral, and a perfect canvas for the bold green sauce. You can use rotisserie chicken, poached chicken, or even turkey for a variation.

2. Corn Tortillas

Traditional Mexican enchiladas use corn tortillas, which hold up better under sauce than flour tortillas. Slightly warming them in oil or on a hot comal helps prevent cracking and improves the texture.

3. Creamy Green Sauce

This is the soul of the dish. Made with Mexican crema (or sour cream), green chiles, jalapeños, and cheese, the sauce offers a balance of tanginess, heat, and richness. A small amount of flour or roux thickens the sauce, while broth and milk make it silky smooth.

4. Cheese

Monterey Jack and mozzarella are often used for their meltability, but you can add Oaxaca, Chihuahua, or even a sharp white cheddar if you’d like to mix things up.

5. Optional Additions

Some variations include sautéed onions, cilantro, or even roasted tomatillos blended into the sauce for extra tang. You can also top the dish with pickled red onions, avocado slices, or crema drizzle for a beautiful finish.

A Flavor Profile You’ll Crave Again and Again

What does Enchiladas Suizas taste like? Imagine this: You take a bite, and the first thing you notice is the rich creaminess of the sauce, with just enough tang from the crema and heat from the green chiles and jalapeños. The soft corn tortilla gives a rustic texture, while the melted cheese offers a gooey finish that ties everything together.

The chicken adds savory substance, making each bite filling and satisfying without being overly heavy. The overall flavor is zesty yet mild, perfect for those who love Mexican food without too much spice. Of course, you can always adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing the number of jalapeños used in the sauce.

Regional and International Variations

Although this dish originated in Mexico City, Enchiladas Suizas are now found throughout Mexico and even in parts of the U.S. with a Mexican-American twist. Some notable variations include:

• Northern Mexico: Often adds roasted green tomatillos or salsa verde to the sauce base.

• Tex-Mex Versions: These sometimes use flour tortillas and top the dish with sour cream, cheddar, and a thickened cheese sauce.

• California-Style: Emphasizes organic ingredients and may include roasted poblano peppers or vegan cheese substitutes.

Tips for Perfect Enchiladas Suizas Every Time

Whether you’re making this dish for the first time or the hundredth, here are a few tips to help you achieve restaurant-quality results:

1. Don’t Skip Warming the Tortillas

Cold tortillas will break when you try to roll them. Quickly heating them in a pan with a drop of oil softens them and improves their flavor.

2. Use High-Quality Cheese

The better the cheese, the better the melt. Look for whole milk versions of Monterey Jack or mozzarella for the creamiest texture.

3. Balance the Sauce

Taste your sauce before pouring it over the enchiladas. If it’s too spicy, add more crema or milk. If it’s too mild, a squeeze of lime or more green chiles can brighten it up.

4. Make Ahead Friendly

You can assemble the enchiladas and refrigerate them before baking. When ready to serve, just bake as instructed, adding 5–10 extra minutes if chilled.

5. Garnish Matters

Fresh cilantro, diced white onion, and a little extra drizzle of crema add freshness and visual appeal. Don’t skip the garnish, it elevates the final dish.

What to Serve with Enchiladas Suizas

This dish is rich and satisfying on its own but pairing it with complementary sides creates a balanced and festive meal. Consider serving:

• Mexican Rice – Flavored with tomato and garlic, it’s a classic pairing.

• Refried Beans – Either black or pinto beans make a hearty side.

• Guacamole or Sliced Avocado – Adds freshness and healthy fats.

• Grilled Vegetables – Bell peppers, onions, and zucchini work well.

• Simple Salad – A crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette balances the creaminess of the main dish.

For drinks, pair with agua fresca (like hibiscus or tamarind), or if you’re feeling celebratory, a margarita or light beer enhances the meal beautifully.

Why You’ll Love Making This Dish Again and Again

Enchiladas Suizas aren’t just another recipe, they’re a meal with soul. They evoke memories of family dinners, weekend gatherings, and special occasions. But thanks to their straightforward ingredient list and easy assembly, they’re also perfect for weeknight meals.

They’re:

• Comforting and cozy – The creamy texture and warm flavors feel like a hug.

• Family-friendly – Even picky eaters enjoy the mild spice and cheesy richness.

• Versatile – Swap the filling or sauce ingredients based on what you have.

• Great for leftovers – Reheat beautifully and even freeze well.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or just treating yourself, this dish hits all the right notes.

Conclusion

Enchiladas Suizas are a perfect example of Mexican cuisine’s ability to blend tradition with innovation, combining classic tortillas and chicken with a rich, creamy sauce that feels both comforting and indulgent. With just a few accessible ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate this restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen.

It’s more than just a recipe, it’s a celebration of flavor, history, and the power of food to bring people together. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself making it again next week. And the week after that.

Buen provecho! 🌿🌮🧀