Enchiladas Suiza is a comforting Mexican dish that brings together the rich flavors of roasted tomatillos, creamy cheese, and savory chicken, all wrapped in warm tortillas. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of textures and tastes that can transport you straight to the heart of Mexico. If you’re looking for a dish that is both easy to prepare and utterly delicious, then look no further. With this recipe, you’ll impress your family and friends while enjoying a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine right in your own kitchen.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

There are countless reasons to fall in love with Enchiladas Suiza. First and foremost, it’s a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences. The combination of tangy tomatillos with the smokiness of poblano peppers creates a complex flavor profile that is both refreshing and indulgent. Additionally, it’s an excellent way to use up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. Plus, who can resist the allure of gooey melted cheese? This dish is sure to become a staple in your home.

Ingredient Checklist

To make your Enchiladas Suiza, gather the following ingredients:

1 pound tomatillos, husked
3 poblano peppers
1 white onion, peeled and quartered
4-5 garlic cloves
1 serrano pepper
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh baby spinach, packed
½ cup cilantro
4 cups cooked shredded chicken (leftover or rotisserie chicken)
1 cup sour cream
½ cup half & half
1 pound shredded Oaxaca, Monterey Jack, or white queso melting cheese
14 taco-size corn or flour tortillas (corn for gluten-free)

Prep & Cook Tools

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

Blender or food processor – For making the sauce.
Baking dish (9×13 inches) – To assemble and bake the enchiladas.
Skillet – For roasting the vegetables.
Large spoon or spatula – To mix ingredients comfortably.
Aluminum foil – To cover the enchiladas while baking.

Cook Enchiladas Suiza Like This

Follow these simple steps to create a mouth-watering dish of Enchiladas Suiza:

Step 1: Roast the Vegetables

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the tomatillos, poblano peppers, quartered onion, garlic cloves, and serrano pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for about 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred. This will enhance their flavors.

Step 2: Blend the Sauce

Once the vegetables are roasted, let them cool for a few minutes. Transfer the roasted vegetables to a blender or food processor. Add the ground cumin, salt, baby spinach, and cilantro. Blend until smooth, adding a splash of water if needed to achieve a pourable consistency.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken with half of the blended tomatillo sauce and half of the shredded cheese. Mix well to ensure that the chicken is coated with the sauce.

Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas

In a separate skillet, warm the tortillas briefly to make them pliable. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla, roll them up tightly, and place them seam-side down in your prepared baking dish.

Step 5: Pour the Sauce and Cheese

Once all the enchiladas are in the baking dish, pour the remaining tomatillo sauce over the top, followed by the sour cream and half & half mixture. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese generously on top.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Holiday-Friendly Variations

Looking to switch up your Enchiladas Suiza for special occasions? Here are some delicious variations:

Vegetarian Enchiladas: Swap the chicken for sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms mixed with black beans.
Cheesy Mushroom Enchiladas: Fill the tortillas with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms and cheese for a rich, earthy flavor.
Seafood Enchiladas: Use cooked shrimp or crab meat instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
Spicy Enchiladas: Add extra serrano peppers or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for those who love heat.

Don’t Do This

Avoid these common mistakes when making your Enchiladas Suiza:

Don’t skip roasting the vegetables. This step is crucial for developing depth of flavor in your sauce.
Do not overfill your tortillas. This can lead to messy enchiladas that don’t hold their shape.
Don’t use pre-shredded cheese if possible. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and offers superior flavor.
Don’t forget to cover the enchiladas with foil during the first part of baking to prevent them from drying out.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Enchiladas Suiza is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to make it ahead of time:

You can prepare the enchiladas and assemble them in the baking dish without baking. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. You can also freeze unbaked enchiladas for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Quick Q&A

Can I use other types of cheese for Enchiladas Suiza?

Absolutely! While Oaxaca cheese is traditional, you can use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor.

Can I make the tomatillo sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the tomatillo sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before using.

What can I serve with Enchiladas Suiza?

These enchiladas pair beautifully with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

Yes, you can use flour tortillas, but for a more traditional flavor and gluten-free option, corn tortillas are recommended.

Hungry for More?

If you loved this recipe for Enchiladas Suiza, you’ll definitely want to check out other delightful dishes that bring the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine to your table. Think about trying some homemade tacos with fresh guacamole, or perhaps a zesty cilantro lime rice that complements your enchiladas perfectly.

Enchiladas Suiza is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace of flavor that invites you to gather around the table with loved ones. The combination of the creamy tomatillo sauce, tender chicken, and melted cheese creates an unforgettable experience that will make you crave seconds. Enjoy every bite and relish the joy of cooking as you create this fantastic dish in your own kitchen!