Creamy Delight: Mastering Authentic Enchiladas Suizas at Home

Enchiladas Suizas, a creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious Mexican dish, are a delightful twist on traditional enchiladas. Unlike their red-sauce counterparts, enchiladas suizas are bathed in a rich, tangy, and slightly spicy green sauce made with tomatillos, chiles, and cream. This recipe guides you through creating authentic enchiladas suizas in your own kitchen, from preparing the filling to crafting the perfect sauce and assembling the final masterpiece. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this restaurant-quality dish!

## What are Enchiladas Suizas?

The name “Enchiladas Suizas” translates to “Swiss Enchiladas” in English. Despite the name, they are a Mexican dish, not Swiss! The name supposedly comes from the use of dairy products, particularly cream and cheese, which are more commonly associated with European cuisine, specifically Switzerland, than traditional Mexican cooking. The origin of the dish is believed to be from a restaurant in Mexico City in the early 20th century. They offer a delightful change from the more common red-sauce enchiladas, offering a brighter, tangier, and creamier flavor profile.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather all your ingredients. This will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

### For the Chicken Filling:

* **2 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts:** This is the heart of our enchiladas. You can also use leftover cooked chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken to save time.
* **1 tbsp Olive Oil:** For sautéing the aromatics and chicken.
* **1 small Onion, Chopped:** Adds a savory base to the filling.
* **2 cloves Garlic, Minced:** Adds a pungent aroma and flavor.
* **1 tsp Chili Powder:** For a touch of warmth and spice.
* **1/2 tsp Cumin:** Adds an earthy flavor.
* **1/4 tsp Oregano:** Adds a subtle herbal note.
* **Salt and Black Pepper to taste:** To season the filling.
* **1/4 cup Chicken Broth:** To keep the chicken moist.

### For the Tomatillo Sauce (Salsa Verde):

* **1 lb Tomatillos, husked and rinsed:** The key ingredient for the green sauce. Look for firm, green tomatillos.
* **2-4 Serrano Peppers, stemmed (adjust to taste):** These add the heat. Start with 2 if you’re sensitive to spice.
* **1/2 Onion, roughly chopped:** Adds sweetness and body to the sauce.
* **2 cloves Garlic, minced:** Adds a pungent aroma and flavor.
* **1/2 cup Cilantro, roughly chopped:** Adds a fresh, vibrant flavor.
* **1 cup Chicken Broth:** To help blend the sauce and adjust consistency.
* **1/2 cup Mexican Crema or Sour Cream:** Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce. Mexican Crema is preferred for a more authentic flavor and thinner consistency.
* **1 tbsp Olive Oil:** For sautéing the vegetables before blending.
* **Salt to taste:** To season the sauce.

### For Assembly:

* **12 Corn Tortillas:** Corn tortillas are traditional for enchiladas. Warm them before filling to prevent them from cracking.
* **2 cups Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded:** For topping the enchiladas. You can also use a Mexican cheese blend.
* **Optional Garnishes:** Chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, crumbled queso fresco, sour cream.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Large Skillet or Pot:** For cooking the chicken and preparing the sauce.
* **Blender or Food Processor:** For blending the tomatillo sauce.
* **9×13 inch Baking Dish:** For assembling and baking the enchiladas.
* **Tongs:** For handling the tortillas.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate measurements.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these detailed instructions to create delicious enchiladas suizas.

### Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling

1. **Cook the Chicken:** There are several ways to cook the chicken:
* **Boiling:** Place the chicken breasts in a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Shred with two forks.
* **Baking:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Shred with two forks.
* **Using Leftover or Rotisserie Chicken:** This is the quickest option! Simply shred the cooked chicken.

2. **Sauté Aromatics:** Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. **Add Chicken and Seasonings:** Add the shredded chicken to the skillet. Stir in chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is heated through and the spices are fragrant.

4. **Add Broth:** Pour in the chicken broth and cook for another minute, allowing the chicken to absorb the liquid and stay moist. Remove from heat and set aside.

### Step 2: Make the Tomatillo Sauce (Salsa Verde)

1. **Prepare the Tomatillos and Peppers:** Remove the husks from the tomatillos and rinse them thoroughly. Stem the serrano peppers. For a milder sauce, remove the seeds and membranes from the peppers. Be careful when handling serrano peppers; they can be quite spicy. Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin.

2. **Roast or Boil the Tomatillos and Peppers:** There are two methods for cooking the tomatillos and peppers:
* **Roasting:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the tomatillos, serrano peppers, and onion on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the tomatillos are slightly softened and blistered. Roasting will impart a slightly smoky flavor to the sauce.
* **Boiling:** Place the tomatillos, serrano peppers, and onion in a pot. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the tomatillos are softened. Boiling is a quicker method.

3. **Sauté Garlic:** Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

4. **Blend the Sauce:** Transfer the cooked tomatillos, serrano peppers, onion, and sautéed garlic to a blender or food processor. Add the cilantro and chicken broth. Blend until smooth.

5. **Season and Finish:** Pour the blended sauce into the same skillet you used to sauté the garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the Mexican crema or sour cream and salt to taste. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. The sauce should be tangy, slightly spicy, and creamy.

### Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas

1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. **Warm the Tortillas:** Warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and prevents them from cracking when you roll them. You can warm them in several ways:
* **Microwave:** Stack the tortillas and wrap them in a damp paper towel. Microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through.
* **Skillet:** Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Warm each tortilla for a few seconds per side, until softened.
* **Oven:** Wrap the tortillas in foil and warm them in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes.

3. **Fill the Tortillas:** Dip each tortilla in the warm tomatillo sauce, coating both sides. Place a spoonful of the chicken filling down the center of the tortilla. Sprinkle with a little shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Roll up the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas, arranging them snugly in the dish.

4. **Top with Sauce and Cheese:** Pour the remaining tomatillo sauce evenly over the enchiladas. Sprinkle generously with the remaining shredded Monterey Jack cheese.

### Step 4: Bake the Enchiladas

1. **Bake:** Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is heated through. The enchiladas should be golden brown and bubbling.

2. **Rest:** Let the enchiladas rest for a few minutes before serving.

### Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. **Garnish:** Garnish the enchiladas with your favorite toppings, such as chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, crumbled queso fresco, or sour cream.

2. **Serve:** Serve the enchiladas immediately while they are hot and cheesy. Enjoy!

## Tips for Perfect Enchiladas Suizas

* **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Fresh tomatillos and serrano peppers will give you the best flavor for the sauce.
* **Adjust the Spice Level:** Control the heat by adjusting the number of serrano peppers you use and removing the seeds and membranes if you prefer a milder sauce.
* **Don’t Overfill the Tortillas:** Overfilling the tortillas can make them difficult to roll and they may burst during baking.
* **Warm the Tortillas Properly:** Properly warmed tortillas are essential for preventing them from cracking. Don’t overheat them, or they will become brittle.
* **Use Good Quality Cheese:** Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully and has a mild flavor that complements the sauce. You can also use a Mexican cheese blend.
* **Make Ahead:** You can prepare the chicken filling and tomatillo sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble and bake the enchiladas just before serving.
* **Customize the Filling:** Feel free to experiment with different fillings. You can use shredded pork, ground beef, or vegetarian options like black beans and corn.
* **Spice it Up:** For a spicier enchilada, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken filling or the sauce.
* **Add Vegetables to the Sauce:** You can add other vegetables to the tomatillo sauce, such as poblano peppers, jalapeños, or even spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
* **Broil for Extra Color:** For a more golden-brown and bubbly cheese topping, broil the enchiladas for a minute or two after baking, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.

## Variations on Enchiladas Suizas

* **Vegetarian Enchiladas Suizas:** Replace the chicken with a mixture of black beans, corn, and sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
* **Pork Enchiladas Suizas:** Use shredded pork carnitas as the filling for a richer and more flavorful enchilada.
* **Seafood Enchiladas Suizas:** Fill the enchiladas with shrimp, crab, or a combination of seafood. Add a touch of lime juice to the filling for a bright, citrusy flavor.
* **Spicy Enchiladas Suizas:** Add more serrano peppers to the sauce or use a hotter chili pepper, like habanero, for an extra kick.
* **Creamy Poblano Enchiladas:** Roast poblano peppers and blend them into the tomatillo sauce for a smoky and slightly sweet flavor.

## Serving Suggestions

Enchiladas Suizas are a complete meal on their own, but they can also be served with a variety of side dishes:

* **Mexican Rice:** A classic side dish that complements the flavors of the enchiladas.
* **Refried Beans:** Another classic Mexican side dish.
* **Guacamole:** A creamy and flavorful avocado dip.
* **Pico de Gallo:** A fresh and vibrant salsa made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice.
* **Mexican Salad:** A refreshing salad with lettuce, tomatoes, corn, black beans, and a lime vinaigrette.

## Storing and Reheating Enchiladas Suizas

* **Storing:** Leftover enchiladas suizas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the enchiladas in the oven or microwave.
* **Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the enchiladas in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
* **Microwave:** Place the enchiladas on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes. However, a serving of enchiladas suizas typically contains:

* Calories: 400-600
* Protein: 30-40g
* Fat: 20-30g
* Carbohydrates: 30-40g

## Conclusion

Enchiladas Suizas are a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. With this detailed recipe, you can easily make them at home and impress your family and friends. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and toppings to create your own signature enchiladas suizas! Enjoy the creamy, cheesy, and flavorful delight of this classic Mexican dish. Buen provecho!