Description
At its most basic level, an enchilada is simply a corn tortilla that has been dipped in a sauce and rolled around a filling. However, the term Mexican Enchiladas Verdes specifically refers to those prepared with a green sauce made from tomatillos. The word enchilada actually comes from the Spanish word enchilar, which literally means to season with chili.
Ingredients
For the salsa verde
1 lb (450 g) tomatillos, husked and rinsed
2–3 serrano peppers (or jalapeños for milder heat)
1/2 white onion
2 garlic cloves
1/2 cup fresh cilantro
Salt, to taste
Water (as needed)
For the enchiladas
12 corn tortillas
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (pollo deshebrado)
1/2 cup vegetable oil (for lightly frying tortillas)
1/2 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco (or cotija)
Sliced onion (optional, for topping)
Instructions
1. Make the salsa verde
Boil tomatillos, peppers, onion, and garlic in water for 8–10 minutes until soft.
Drain and blend with cilantro and salt until smooth.
Taste and adjust salt. Add a little water if needed for a saucy consistency.
2. Prepare tortillas
Lightly fry tortillas in hot oil for a few seconds per side (just until soft, not crispy).
Drain on paper towels.
3. Assemble
Dip each tortilla into the warm salsa verde.
Fill with shredded chicken and roll.
Place seam-side down on a plate or baking dish.
4. Serve
Spoon extra salsa verde over the enchiladas.
Drizzle with crema.
Sprinkle queso fresco and add sliced onion if desired.
Notes
These enchiladas are even better the next day, as the tortillas soak up the tangy salsa verde. Feel free to customize with shredded chicken, roasted vegetables, or black beans, and finish with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or a drizzle of crema for extra freshness and balance.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 enchiladas
- Calories: 420kcal
Keywords: Authentic green enchiladas, salsa verde enchiladas, traditional Mexican green enchiladas, chicken enchiladas with green sauce, homemade enchiladas verdes.