Mexican Enchiladas Suizas are a rich and comforting dish that beautifully balances the zesty tang of salsa verde with the creaminess of Mexican crema and the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of Swiss cheese. The enchiladas are filled with tender chicken, rolled in lightly fried tortillas, and baked under a blanket of golden, bubbly cheese.
This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even festive celebrations. With its satisfying textures and bold flavors, it brings the essence of authentic Mexican comfort food right to your table. Serve it with lime wedges, fresh cilantro, and perhaps a side of rice and beans for a meal that everyone will rave about.
Full Recipe:
-
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
-
12 corn tortillas
-
3 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
-
2 cups Mexican crema or sour cream
-
1 cup salsa verde
-
2 cups shredded Swiss cheese (or Monterey Jack)
-
1/2 cup chopped onion
-
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
-
1 tablespoon butter
-
1 tablespoon flour
-
1 cup chicken broth
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
Lime wedges for garnish
Directions:
-
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish.
-
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Quickly fry each tortilla for 5–10 seconds per side until pliable. Drain on paper towels.
-
In a bowl, combine shredded chicken with chopped onion and half of the cilantro. Season with salt and pepper.
-
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, then add salsa verde and crema. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
-
Spoon some chicken mixture into each tortilla, roll up tightly, and place seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
-
Pour the creamy salsa verde sauce evenly over enchiladas. Top with shredded Swiss cheese.
-
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
-
Garnish with remaining cilantro and lime wedges before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: ~385 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Origins of Enchiladas Suizas
Enchiladas Suizas, often translated as “Swiss-style enchiladas,” are one of the most beloved dishes in Mexican cuisine. The name might sound unusual, as enchiladas are distinctly Mexican, but the “Suizas” part actually refers to the European influence on the recipe. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, European immigrants, particularly the Swiss, settled in Mexico and introduced dairy-rich cooking methods that shaped some local dishes. These enchiladas are called “Swiss” because of their use of creamy sauces and cheese, giving them a richness not traditionally found in more rustic Mexican enchiladas.
Unlike the red chile–based enchiladas more common in central and southern Mexico, Enchiladas Suizas feature a luscious salsa verde made from tomatillos, green chiles, and sometimes jalapeños, blended with crema or sour cream. This creamy green sauce is what distinguishes them from other enchilada varieties, making them a fusion of Mexican vibrancy and European creaminess.
The Role of Salsa Verde in the Dish
At the heart of Enchiladas Suizas is the salsa verde, a tangy and slightly spicy sauce that defines the dish’s personality. Salsa verde is made using tomatillos, which look like green tomatoes wrapped in papery husks. Their flavor is tart and bright, adding a unique zest that balances perfectly with the richness of the cream and melted cheese. When tomatillos are roasted before blending, they develop a subtle smokiness that deepens the flavor profile even further.
This sauce doesn’t just provide flavor—it also influences the texture and visual appeal. Smooth, velvety, and green, it transforms the enchiladas into a dish that feels festive and indulgent. Salsa verde is often used across Mexican cuisine in dishes such as chilaquiles, tacos, and tamales, but in Enchiladas Suizas, it finds its most luxurious expression.
Why Swiss Cheese?
Another element that makes these enchiladas stand out is the use of Swiss cheese—or cheeses with similar melting properties, such as Monterey Jack or Chihuahua cheese. The European settlers in Mexico introduced cow’s milk cheeses, which were not a staple in traditional pre-Hispanic diets. Mexicans quickly adapted these cheeses to their recipes, creating dishes like Enchiladas Suizas that bridge culinary traditions.
Swiss cheese melts beautifully, forming a gooey, golden topping that contrasts with the spiciness of the salsa verde. The balance between creamy and spicy, tangy and rich, is what elevates this dish into a category of its own.
Regional and Family Variations
Like many Mexican dishes, Enchiladas Suizas vary from household to household and from one region to another. Some cooks prefer roasting their tomatillos and chiles, while others boil them for a fresher taste. Certain regions may use poblano peppers for a smokier depth, while others rely heavily on serrano chiles for heat.
The filling is also flexible. While shredded chicken is the most common protein, some variations include pulled pork, turkey, or even vegetables like mushrooms and spinach for vegetarian options. The sauce itself may be more or less creamy depending on the cook’s preference—some recipes lean heavily on Mexican crema, while others highlight the tangy brightness of the tomatillos with only a small splash of dairy.
These variations are part of what makes Enchiladas Suizas so enduring. Families pass down their own versions, tweaking the balance of sauce, cheese, and filling until it becomes a signature dish.
A Dish for Every Occasion
One of the reasons Enchiladas Suizas have endured for generations is their versatility. They can be served as a comforting family dinner on a busy weeknight or presented as the centerpiece of a festive gathering. Their golden, bubbly topping and vibrant green sauce make them visually stunning, perfect for celebrations such as birthdays, holidays, or casual get-togethers with friends.
They’re also a wonderful dish for meal prep. The enchiladas can be assembled ahead of time, stored in the refrigerator, and baked right before serving, making them ideal for entertaining without the stress of last-minute cooking.
Pairings and Serving Suggestions
Enchiladas Suizas are hearty and filling, but they pair beautifully with other traditional Mexican sides. A scoop of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad with avocado provides balance and variety. For a refreshing contrast, serve them with a glass of agua fresca, such as hibiscus tea (agua de jamaica) or horchata.
Toppings can also enhance the dish. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro, sliced radishes, or a drizzle of extra crema on top of the finished enchiladas adds freshness and color. Lime wedges served on the side allow diners to brighten the flavor to their liking. For spice enthusiasts, a spoonful of pickled jalapeños adds an extra kick.
Tips for Making the Perfect Enchiladas Suizas
Achieving the best Enchiladas Suizas requires attention to a few key details:
-
Choosing tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional, but they should be lightly fried or warmed to prevent tearing during assembly.
-
Balancing the sauce: The key is harmony between tangy tomatillos, spicy chiles, and rich crema. Taste as you go to ensure the sauce doesn’t lean too heavily in one direction.
-
Melting cheese: A cheese with excellent melting properties is essential. If Swiss isn’t available, Monterey Jack or Oaxaca cheese are excellent substitutes.
-
Make ahead: The sauce can be prepared a day in advance, and the enchiladas can be assembled and refrigerated before baking, making it easier to serve for larger groups.
Nutritional Insights
While Enchiladas Suizas are undeniably indulgent, they can also be balanced with a few smart choices. Using lean chicken breast, low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt, and reducing the amount of cheese can lighten the dish without sacrificing flavor. Adding vegetables like sautéed zucchini, corn, or spinach into the filling boosts nutrition and fiber.
This dish also provides a good balance of protein and carbohydrates, making it both satisfying and nourishing. It’s a reminder that comfort food doesn’t have to be unhealthy—it can be adapted to fit a variety of dietary needs.
Cultural Significance
Beyond its flavor, Enchiladas Suizas represent the blending of cultures. They showcase how Mexican cuisine has always evolved through influence, creativity, and adaptation, while still remaining rooted in tradition. This dish embodies hospitality and celebration, often prepared for family meals that bring people together around the table.
Enchiladas Suizas are more than just food—they’re a story of cultural exchange, regional pride, and family traditions that have been preserved and transformed through generations.
Conclusion
Enchiladas Suizas are a beautiful representation of Mexican culinary ingenuity, combining native ingredients like corn tortillas and tomatillos with European influences such as cream and Swiss cheese. The result is a dish that feels both familiar and extraordinary, balancing bright flavors with indulgent richness.
Their versatility makes them suitable for casual weeknight dinners as well as festive gatherings. Whether you enjoy them with classic chicken filling, a vegetarian twist, or an extra-spicy salsa, they remain a dish that brings comfort, warmth, and joy to any table.
For anyone exploring Mexican cuisine, Enchiladas Suizas are a must-try. They are not just about flavor but also about heritage, creativity, and the simple pleasure of sharing food with loved ones. Every bite tells a story—one that bridges tradition and innovation, making it a timeless favorite in kitchens worldwide.
