The Best Homemade Chili Relleno Recipe

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What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade Chili Relleno recipe is easy to follow and packed with flavor, making it a favorite for family dinners or special occasions. First, you’ll love how the roasted peppers blend perfectly with the gooey melted cheese inside. Second, the fluffy egg batter adds a light, crispy coating that’s simply irresistible. Finally, it’s a versatile dish you can customize with your favorite toppings or spices to make it your own.

Recipe

Homemade Chili Relleno is a classic Mexican dish that features roasted poblano peppers stuffed with cheese, dipped in a fluffy egg batter, and fried to golden perfection. This dish is a favorite for its rich flavors and satisfying texture.

Ingredients:

6 poblano peppers
8 oz queso fresco or Monterey Jack cheese, cut into 6 equal strips
4 large eggs, separated
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
Oil for frying

Instructions:

Roast the poblano peppers over an open flame or under a broiler until the skin is charred and blistered. Place them in a plastic bag or covered bowl to steam for 10 minutes. Peel off the skin, make a small slit in each pepper, and remove the seeds.
Stuff each pepper with a strip of cheese, ensuring the slit is closed.
In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks, flour, and salt until smooth. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Fold the yolk mixture into the egg whites to create a light batter.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Dip each stuffed pepper into the batter, coating it evenly. Fry until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Serve warm with your favorite salsa or sauce.

Notes:

Wear gloves when handling poblanos to avoid skin irritation.
For a lighter version, bake the battered peppers at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes instead of frying.

Equipment:

Skillet or frying pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk

Time:

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Cuisine:

Mexican

Serving:

Serves 6

Nutrition

Chili Relleno is a nutritious dish packed with flavors and essential nutrients. Below is a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving.

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	250
Total Fat	15g
Saturated Fat	6g
Cholesterol	95mg
Sodium	500mg
Carbohydrates	15g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Sugars	5g
Protein	12g
Vitamin D	2% DV
Calcium	10% DV
Iron	8% DV
Potassium	6% DV

What To Serve With It

When I make chili rellenos, I love pairing them with simple sides like cilantro-lime rice or charro beans—they balance the dish perfectly. A cold horchata or a crisp Mexican lager works wonders to cut through the richness, too. Don’t forget warm tortillas on the side; they’re perfect for scooping up every last bite!

Side Dish Options

Since chili relleno has rich, bold flavors, I like to balance it with lighter, fresh sides that complement without overpowering. A simple green salad with avocado, lime, and cilantro adds brightness. Steamed rice, especially cilantro-lime, absorbs the sauce while staying neutral. Grilled veggies like zucchini or corn bring a smoky touch. Black beans, seasoned lightly, provide protein without competing. Fresh pico de gallo or guacamole offers a cool contrast. Corn tortillas or warm flour tortillas let you scoop up every bite. These sides keep the meal balanced, letting the chili relleno shine without feeling heavy or overwhelming. It’s all about harmony.

Perfect Beverage Pairings

After rounding out your chili relleno meal with those fresh, flavorful sides, it’s time to think about what to sip alongside it. I love pairing mine with a crisp Mexican lager—it cuts through the richness without overpowering the dish. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try horchata or a tangy tamarind agua fresca for a sweet contrast. For wine lovers, a light, citrusy white like Sauvignon Blanc works wonders. And if you’re feeling bold, a smoky mezcal adds depth. Whatever you choose, make sure it complements, not competes with, those delicious roasted pepper flavors. Cheers to the perfect bite!