BreakfastEasyGluten-Free

Chilaquiles (Simplified)

Crispy corn chips simmered in gentle salsa with runny-yolk eggs on top. This remission-phase breakfast brings Mexican comfort without the garlic or onion that usually come with it.

Chilaquiles (Simplified)
Total Time
20m
Servings
2
Calories
345
Fiber
3g
Protein
16g
Carbs
32g
Fat
18g
Best ForSafe for Crohn's & UC
Remission

Watch Out For

tomato salsamoderate

Nightshades contain alkaloids that some IBD patients report as triggers. Limited research in animal models suggests potential intestinal irritation, though human studies are lacking.

Tip: Try salsa verde (tomatillo-based) if you tolerate tomatillos better than tomatoes, or skip this recipe if nightshades consistently trigger your symptoms.

corn tortilla chipsmoderate

Corn products are challenging for some IBD patients. While chips are generally better tolerated than whole corn kernels, individual responses vary widely.

Tip: Start with a smaller portion (2 cups instead of 4) to test tolerance. If corn consistently triggers symptoms, this recipe may not be suitable.

avocadomild

High-fat foods can be harder to digest during active symptoms for some.

Tip: Reduce to 1/8 avocado per serving or omit entirely.

Ingredients

  • Moderate FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Moderate FODMAP

Instructions

  1. Pour the salsa into a large skillet and heat over medium heat for about 2 minutes, until it begins to bubble gently at the edges.

    Equipment: large skillet
  2. Add the tortilla chips to the salsa and fold gently with a spatula to coat each chip, being careful not to break them completely.

    Tip: Work gently—you want some chips to stay intact for texture contrast
  3. Cook for 2-3 minutes, folding occasionally, until the chips soften slightly but retain some texture—they should be tender but not mushy.

    Tip: 2 minutes for crunchier chips, 4-5 minutes for softer enchilada-style texture
  4. Use the back of a spoon to create 2 shallow wells in the chip mixture, spacing them apart.

  5. Crack one egg directly into each well, being careful to keep the yolks intact.

    Tip: A low, gentle crack keeps yolks intact
  6. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the egg whites turn opaque and set but the yolks remain runny.

    Equipment: lid
  7. Remove from heat and immediately sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

  8. Cover again for 1 minute to let the residual heat melt the cheese into a glossy layer.

    Equipment: lid
  9. Transfer to serving plates and top each portion with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and sliced avocado if using.

  10. Serve immediately while the chips are still warm and the yolks are runny.

    Tip: Chips lose their texture quickly—serve immediately

Notes

Storage

Best served fresh—leftover chips become soggy. You can store cooked eggs separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat gently in a skillet with fresh chips and salsa.

Low-FODMAP salsa

Most commercial salsas contain garlic or onion, which are high-FODMAP. Check labels carefully or make your own: roasted tomatoes, lime juice, cilantro, cumin, and salt. FODY brand makes certified low-FODMAP salsa.

Chip texture preference

Cooking time dramatically affects texture. For softer, almost enchilada-like chips, cook for 4-5 minutes. For crunchier chips with just a slight tender coating, keep it to 2 minutes.

Salsa verde alternative

Tomatillo-based salsa verde (also a nightshade) may be better tolerated by some who react to tomatoes specifically. It has a tangier, less acidic flavor. Must still be garlic/onion-free.

Fried egg variation

If you prefer firmer eggs or want more control, fry the eggs separately in a small skillet and place them on top of the chip mixture just before serving.

Avocado portions

Stick to 1/4 avocado (about 30-40g) per serving to stay in the FODMAP green zone. Larger portions move into amber territory on the Monash scale due to sorbitol content.

IBD Considerations

Diet Protocol Compliance

How this recipe fits common IBD dietary approaches