Creamy Tomatillo Enchiladas

What Exactly Are Enchiladas Suizas?

Enchiladas Suizas, often translated as “Swiss Enchiladas,” are a popular and delectable Mexican classic that originated in Mexico City. This dish features corn tortillas generously stuffed with succulent shredded chicken, then bathed in a luxuriously creamy green sauce, and finally baked to perfection under a blanket of melted cheese. The “Suizas” (Swiss) moniker is believed to have come from the prominent use of dairy, specifically a rich, creamy sauce that evokes the dairy-rich cuisine often associated with Switzerland. It’s rumored that the dish was first created at the famous Sanborns cafe in Mexico City, quickly becoming a local sensation.

Unlike traditional enchiladas that might use a thinner, more robust salsa verde or a red chile sauce, Enchiladas Suizas stand out with their uniquely velvety green sauce. This sauce typically starts with a vibrant salsa verde (made from tomatillos) and is then enriched with Mexican crema, creating a milder, creamier, and undeniably indulgent experience. The combination of savory chicken, soft tortillas, tangy-creamy sauce, and gooey cheese makes for a deeply satisfying and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Key Ingredients for Authentic Enchiladas Suizas

Crafting the perfect Enchiladas Suizas begins with selecting high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the layered flavors and textures that make this dish so special. Here’s what you’ll need, along with tips for variations and substitutions:

• Salsa Verde: This is the heart of your green sauce. You have two excellent options:
  • Homemade Salsa Verde: For the freshest and most authentic flavor, consider making your own homemade tomatillo salsa verde. It allows you to control the spice level and freshness.
  • Store-Bought Salsa Verde: To save time without sacrificing too much flavor, choose a high-quality store-bought salsa verde. Look for brands with natural ingredients and a good balance of tanginess and mild heat.
• Cream: Essential for achieving that signature smooth, creamy texture.
  • Mexican Crema: This is the preferred choice for authenticity. Mexican crema is thinner, less sour, and has a richer flavor than standard sour cream. You can often find it in the dairy aisle of most well-stocked grocery stores, especially those with an international section, or at Mexican markets.
  • Substitutes: If Mexican crema is unavailable, you can use a mix of sour cream and a little heavy cream or milk to thin it down and reduce its tartness. Alternatively, use heavy cream for an even richer, albeit less traditional, result.
• Tortillas: The vessel for all that delicious filling and sauce.
  • Corn Tortillas: Traditionally, corn tortillas are used for their authentic flavor and texture. Store-bought corn tortillas are convenient.
  • Flour Tortillas: If you prefer a softer, less robust tortilla, flour tortillas can be a good alternative, though they absorb less sauce.
  • Homemade Tortillas: For an unparalleled experience, try making your own homemade corn tortillas or easy flour tortillas. They’re surprisingly simple and make a huge difference.
• Shredded Chicken: The primary filling.
  • Leftover Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using up any leftover cooked shredded chicken you might have on hand.
  • Rotisserie Chicken: A fantastic time-saver! Purchase a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken from your grocery store, shred it, and you’re good to go. It adds great flavor and moisture.
  • Homemade Shredded Chicken: If starting from scratch, an easy recipe for shredded chicken can be prepared by poaching chicken breasts or thighs until tender, then shredding. Season it with a pinch of salt, pepper, cumin, and garlic powder for added depth.
• Cheese: For that irresistible gooey, melted topping.
  • Chihuahua or Oaxaca Cheese: These Mexican cheeses are highly recommended for their authentic flavor and excellent melting properties. They create that beautiful, stretchy, golden-brown crust.
  • Substitutes: If Mexican cheeses are hard to find, good melting alternatives include Monterey Jack, mild cheddar, or mozzarella. A blend of these can also work wonders.
• Cilantro: An optional but highly recommended addition for brightness.
  • Blending fresh cilantro into the cream sauce adds a wonderful herbaceous note and a vibrant green color.
  • If you’re not a fan of cilantro, or if you have the gene that makes it taste like soap, feel free to omit it entirely without compromising the dish’s core flavors.
• Vegetable Oil: For sautéing the salsa verde and potentially softening tortillas.
• Kosher Salt: To taste, for seasoning the chicken and sauce.
• Optional Garnishes: Sliced red onions and additional fresh cilantro for serving add a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Enchiladas Suizas

Creating these creamy chicken enchiladas is a rewarding process. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a delicious and authentic result:

1. Prepare the Salsa Verde Cream Sauce

1. Blend the Salsa Verde: If using fresh cilantro (highly recommended for a vibrant flavor), combine your salsa verde and packed cilantro in a large blender. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and uniformly green.
2. Cook the Sauce: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Carefully pour in the blended salsa verde. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 1 minute. This step helps to deepen the flavor of the salsa and mellow its acidity.
3. Add the Crema: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in ¾ cup of Mexican crema until fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with kosher salt if needed. For an even richer, more indulgent sauce, you can add an additional ¼ to ½ cup of Mexican crema at this stage. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Shredded Chicken Filling

1. Mix Chicken and Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the 2 ½ cups of cooked shredded chicken with ½ cup of your freshly made green cream sauce. Toss gently until the chicken is thoroughly coated. This pre-coating ensures the chicken is flavorful and moist inside the tortillas.
2. Season to Taste: Taste the chicken mixture and season with kosher salt as necessary. If your chicken wasn’t heavily seasoned initially, a pinch of cumin or garlic powder can be added here for extra depth.
3. Chef’s Tip: Using rotisserie chicken is a secret weapon for this recipe. Its pre-seasoned juiciness adds incredible flavor and saves a significant amount of preparation time!

3. Prepare the Tortillas

Properly warming your tortillas is crucial to prevent them from tearing during assembly and to ensure a soft, pliable texture for rolling.

• Microwave Method (Quick & Easy): Wrap 6-8 corn tortillas at a time in a damp paper towel. Microwave for 30-45 seconds, flipping halfway through, until they are warm and flexible. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
• Light Fry Method (Flavorful & Pliable): Heat about 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, lightly fry each tortilla for about 5-10 seconds per side, just until it softens. Avoid making them crispy. Transfer the softened tortillas to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil before assembling. This method adds a lovely depth of flavor and texture.

4. Assemble the Enchiladas

1. Preheat Oven & Prep Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour about ¼ cup of the green cream sauce into a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly across the bottom. This prevents the enchiladas from sticking and adds moisture.
2. Fill the Tortillas: Take one warmed tortilla. Place a spoonful or two of the shredded chicken mixture down the center, followed by a sprinkle of about 1 to 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese.
3. Roll & Arrange: Tightly roll up the tortilla, securing the filling inside. Place the rolled enchilada seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas, arranging them snugly in a single layer. You should be able to fit 10-12 enchiladas in a standard 9×13-inch dish.
4. Sauce and Cheese Topping: Once all enchiladas are arranged, pour the remaining green cream sauce evenly over the top, ensuring all tortillas are well-covered. Finish by sprinkling the remaining 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese generously over the entire dish.

5. Cook and Serve

1. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and slightly golden at the edges. The sauce should also be heated through and simmering.
2. Garnish & Enjoy: Carefully remove the enchiladas from the oven. For a final flourish and a burst of fresh flavor, top with thinly sliced red onions and a scattering of fresh cilantro before serving immediately.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Enchiladas Suizas

To transform your Enchiladas Suizas into a complete and well-rounded Mexican feast, consider pairing them with these delicious side dishes. They complement the rich and creamy flavors of the enchiladas beautifully:

• Authentic Mexican Rice: A classic pairing that offers a fluffy, flavorful carbohydrate to soak up any extra sauce. Its savory tomato base and subtle spices are a perfect match.
• Arroz Verde (Green Rice): For an extra touch of green to match your enchiladas, this vibrant rice dish made with cilantro and poblano peppers is both beautiful and delicious.
• Refreshing Cucumber Salsa: The crispness and coolness of cucumber salsa provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the enchiladas, adding a delightful crunch and tang.
• Creamy Guacamole: The smooth, rich texture and fresh avocado flavor of guacamole are always welcome alongside Mexican dishes. It adds another layer of creaminess and healthy fats.
• Pico de Gallo: A simple, fresh tomato, onion, and cilantro salsa offers a zesty, uncooked counterpoint to the warm, baked dish.
• Refried Beans or Black Beans: Essential sides for many Mexican meals, providing protein and fiber with a comforting texture.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with a vinaigrette dressing can cut through the richness and add freshness.

Recommended Kitchen Tools for Enchiladas Suizas

Having the right tools can make preparing Enchiladas Suizas even more enjoyable and efficient:

• Blender: Essential for achieving a perfectly smooth salsa verde cream sauce. A good blender ensures all ingredients are finely incorporated for a consistent texture.
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: A versatile workhorse in any kitchen, this size baking dish is ideal for assembling and baking a standard batch of enchiladas. It’s also perfect for casseroles, lasagna, and desserts.
• Box Grater: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly shredded cheese melts much better and often has a superior flavor. A sturdy box grater with a comfortable handle makes this task quick and easy.
• Medium Saucepan: For simmering the salsa verde and mixing in the crema to create your lush sauce.
• Large Mixing Bowl: To combine your shredded chicken with the sauce before filling the tortillas.

Storing and Freezing Enchiladas Suizas

Enchiladas Suizas are fantastic as leftovers and can be easily stored or frozen for future enjoyment:

• Refrigeration: Leftover enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbly, or microwave individual portions.
• Freezing: To freeze, allow the baked enchiladas to cool completely. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or tightly wrap the entire baking dish with multiple layers of plastic wrap and then foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
  • To Reheat from Frozen: Thaw the enchiladas in the refrigerator overnight. Then, bake covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) for 25-35 minutes, or until heated through. Uncover for the last 5-10 minutes if you want the cheese to re-crisp slightly.
  • You can also bake directly from frozen, but it will take longer (around 45-60 minutes, covered, then uncovered).