Quiche with green chilies offers a flavorful twist on a classic dish that blends the creaminess of eggs and cheese with the subtle heat of chili peppers. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a balance of savory and mildly spicy flavors in their meals. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner, green chili quiche adds a bold and refreshing change from the traditional version. It’s also a great make-ahead meal that keeps well and can be easily reheated, making it ideal for busy households or casual gatherings.
Why Green Chilies in Quiche?
A Flavorful Addition
Green chilies bring a mild, tangy heat that enhances the rich and creamy texture of quiche. Unlike red chilies, green chilies tend to have a more vegetal, fresh flavor that complements eggs and cheese beautifully. They are often used in Southwestern and Mexican cooking and are a great way to give traditional quiche a spicy, yet not overpowering, lift.
Nutritional Benefits
Green chilies are not just about flavor they’re low in calories and rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C and beta-carotene. Adding them to a quiche means you’re not only boosting the taste but also enhancing the overall nutritional profile of the dish.
Key Ingredients for Green Chili Quiche
Basic Ingredients
Here’s a simple list of ingredients you’ll need to make a delicious green chili quiche:
- 1 prepared pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or plant-based)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or light sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies, drained
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, cumin, or paprika for added flavor
Ingredient Variations
To personalize your quiche, consider adding these optional ingredients:
- Cooked bacon or sausage for extra protein
- Chopped bell peppers or tomatoes for more veggies
- Spinach or kale for added greens
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for a herbaceous finish
How to Make Quiche with Green Chilies
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this quiche is a straightforward process that doesn’t require advanced culinary skills. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the pie crust in a pie dish and prick the bottom with a fork. Pre-bake the crust for about 8-10 minutes to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Let it cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and cream. Add salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings.
- Stir in the cheese, green chilies, and cooked onions. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the pre-baked pie crust.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
- Allow the quiche to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving Tips
Green chili quiche pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as:
- Mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Fresh fruit salad
- Roasted potatoes or hash browns
- Light soups or vegetable-based appetizers
Quiche with Green Chilies for Different Occasions
Perfect for Brunch
This quiche is a standout dish on any brunch table. The mild heat from the green chilies adds complexity, making it more exciting than a standard egg dish. Serve it warm or at room temperature with mimosas or fresh juice.
Easy Weeknight Meal
If you’re short on time but want something homemade and flavorful, green chili quiche is an excellent choice. You can prepare it ahead and simply reheat individual slices. It’s filling without being too heavy, making it suitable for a light dinner.
Meal Prep Friendly
Quiche is one of those dishes that tastes great the next day, which makes it perfect for meal prep. You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze slices for up to a month. Just reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Tips for Success
Use a Quality Cheese
The flavor of the cheese plays a major role in the final result. Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack will complement the green chilies well. Avoid overly processed cheeses for best flavor and texture.
Control the Spice Level
If you prefer a milder flavor, use only half a can of green chilies or choose mild varieties. For more spice, add a pinch of chili flakes or chopped jalapeños along with the green chilies.
Prevent a Soggy Crust
Blind baking the crust is essential. This simple step prevents the base of the quiche from becoming soggy and ensures a crisp, golden bottom. Also, make sure to let cooked vegetables cool before adding them to the egg mixture to avoid adding excess moisture.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Refrigeration
After cooling, store the quiche in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can enjoy it cold or gently warmed.
Freezing
Quiche with green chilies freezes very well. Let it cool completely, then wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven until heated through.
Reheating Methods
- Oven: 325°F (165°C) for 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Medium heat for 1-2 minutes per slice.
- Toaster Oven: Reheats evenly and crisps the crust.
A Quiche That’s Both Classic and Bold
Quiche with green chilies is an easy, flavorful twist on the classic French dish. It brings together creamy eggs, melty cheese, and the mild kick of green chilies in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a group or simply want to meal prep something satisfying and unique, this dish checks all the boxes. You can stick with the basics or customize it to your heart’s content. From weeknight dinners to weekend brunches, green chili quiche is a reliable, crowd-pleasing recipe that adds both warmth and character to the table.