Enchiladas Suizas are a classic Mexican recipe made with tender shredded chicken, soft corn tortillas, and a creamy green tomatillo sauce blended with roasted poblano peppers, serrano chiles, cilantro, and Mexican crema. Topped with melted queso Oaxaca or mozzarella and baked until bubbly, this authentic enchiladas suizas recipe delivers bold flavor with a smooth, slightly tangy finish. Perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings, these green chicken enchiladas pair beautifully with Mexican rice, refried beans, and fresh avocado. Whether you’re looking for traditional Mexican comfort food or an easy baked enchilada recipe, this creamy tomatillo enchiladas dish brings restaurant-style results straight from your oven.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

2 poblano chiles
1 teaspoon vegetable oil, plus more for frying
1½ pounds tomatillos, husks removed
2 serrano or jalapeño chiles (seeds removed for less heat, optional)
1 small white onion, halved and peeled
1 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped (plus more for garnish)
1 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
2 garlic cloves, roughly chopped
Pinch of ground cumin
1 tablespoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
3 cups cooked chicken or turkey, shredded
2 cups shredded queso Oaxaca or mozzarella
8 (6-inch) corn tortillas

Instructions

1. Roast the Poblanos

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Rub the poblano chiles lightly with oil and place them on a sheet pan. Broil, turning occasionally, until the skins are blackened and blistered on all sides.

Transfer to a bowl and cover for 15 minutes to steam. Peel off the charred skin, remove seeds, and roughly chop.

2. Prepare the Green Sauce

Rinse the tomatillos to remove their sticky coating. Place them in a saucepan with the serrano or jalapeño chiles, half of the onion, and 1 cup of water. Simmer over medium heat until softened.

Transfer the mixture to a blender along with the roasted poblanos, cilantro, crema, garlic, cumin, and salt. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.

3. Prepare the Filling

Heat a thin layer of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Lightly fry each tortilla for a few seconds per side, just until pliable. Drain on paper towels.

Finely mince the remaining half of the onion. In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken (or turkey), minced onion, and 1 cup of the green sauce. Mix well.

4. Assemble the Enchiladas

Spread a thin layer of green sauce across the bottom of a baking dish.

Divide the chicken mixture evenly among the tortillas. Roll each tortilla tightly and place seam-side down in the dish.

Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the top and sprinkle with shredded queso Oaxaca or mozzarella.

5. Bake

Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is bubbling.

Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Tips

Roast the poblanos until deeply charred for a smoky flavor.
Lightly frying the tortillas prevents them from breaking when rolled.
Blend the sauce thoroughly for a smooth, velvety texture.
Let the enchiladas rest for 5 minutes before serving for easier slicing.

Variations and Substitutions

Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Substitute turkey for a great post-holiday option.
Replace queso Oaxaca with Monterey Jack or mozzarella if needed.
Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the filling for extra texture.
Increase or reduce serrano peppers depending on desired heat level.

FAQs

What makes Enchiladas Suizas different from regular enchiladas?
They feature a creamy green tomatillo sauce enriched with crema and topped with melted cheese.

Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze them?
They freeze well before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with Mexican rice and refried beans.
Add sliced avocado or a simple cabbage salad on the side.
Pair with fresh lime wedges for brightness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy, tangy green sauce with balanced heat.
Tender tortillas filled with savory shredded chicken.
Melted cheese topping with rich texture.
Perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings.