Name: Easy Baked Chili Rellenos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 4 canned whole green chiles; 6 ounces Monterey Jack cheese; 4 large eggs; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder

Stuffed with melty cheese, blanketed in a light egg batter, and nestled in a simple tomato sauce, these Easy Baked Chili Rellenos capture the spirit of a classic Mexican favorite without the fuss of frying. Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner or impressing weekend guests, this oven-baked version is quick to prep and big on flavor.

What makes this dish so lovable is the contrast: the mild heat of roasted green chiles against gooey cheese, the airy bite of the egg batter with the richness of the sauce. It’s comfort food that doesn’t weigh you down, and you’ll be surprised how easily it all comes together with pantry staples and just a few fresh ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Baked Chili Rellenos

This baked version of chili rellenos eliminates deep frying, which not only makes it healthier but also so much easier to prepare and clean up after. It’s an ideal dish for meal prep or casual entertaining, as it reheats beautifully and pairs with many side dishes.

Plus, the texture remains light and satisfying, and the chiles can be filled with your favorite cheese or even a protein twist like shredded chicken or ground beef.

What Kind of Peppers Should I Use for Chili Rellenos?

Traditionally, poblano peppers are the go-to for chili rellenos thanks to their mild heat and meaty texture. For this recipe, canned whole green chiles are a time-saving shortcut that still deliver that delicious roasted flavor. If you have fresh poblanos, you can roast and peel them yourself, but the canned option works great in a pinch and saves serious time on busy evenings.

Ingredients for the Easy Baked Chili Rellenos

This dish keeps things simple without sacrificing flavor. All the ingredients serve a purpose, from the creamy cheese to the fluffy eggs.

Canned whole green chiles
Monterey Jack cheese
Eggs
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Tomato sauce
Cumin
Garlic powder
Onion powder

These pantry-friendly items come together to form a fluffy egg batter and savory tomato base, while the chiles and cheese provide that iconic stuffed center.

How To Make the Easy Baked Chili Rellenos

Step 1: Prep the Peppers

Drain the canned whole green chiles and carefully remove any seeds if needed. Pat them dry to help the batter stick.

Step 2: Stuff With Cheese

Cut cheese into strips and gently stuff them into the center of each chile. Try not to tear the pepper too much.

Step 3: Make the Batter

Separate the eggs. Whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold in the yolks along with flour, baking powder, and salt to create a fluffy mixture.

Step 4: Arrange in Baking Dish

Place a thin layer of tomato sauce mixed with cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder in a greased baking dish. Lay the stuffed chiles on top.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Spoon the egg batter over the peppers, covering them generously. Bake at 375°F for about 25 to 30 minutes or until golden and set.

Serving and Storing Baked Chili Rellenos

These chili rellenos are best served warm straight from the oven, but they also make great leftovers. The recipe feeds about 4 to 5 people depending on the size of the chiles and appetite. To store, let them cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain their fluffy texture.

They also freeze well. Wrap each portion in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen at 350°F until heated through.

What to Serve With Easy Baked Chili Rellenos?

Mexican Rice

The perfect mild and fluffy side to absorb all that savory tomato sauce.

Refried Beans

Creamy and protein-packed, they add richness and heartiness to the meal.

Street Corn (Elote)

Sweet, smoky, and tangy—a bright contrast to the cheesy chiles.

Avocado Salad

Fresh avocado with lime and cilantro adds coolness and balance.

Warm Tortillas

Perfect for scooping up bites or wrapping around the relleno for a twist.

Black Bean and Corn Salsa

A pop of color and texture, this adds freshness to every plate.

Pickled Red Onions

Tangy and vibrant, they cut through the richness of the cheese.

Want More Mexican-Inspired Comfort Food?

If you loved these Easy Baked Chili Rellenos, check out some more flavor-packed dishes from my kitchen:

Homemade Mexican Pizza Recipe for a fusion twist on fast food favorites.
No Peek Chicken Casserole for a cozy, hands-off dinner.
Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta when you’re craving something hearty and vegetarian.
Creamy Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Potatoes, and Mushrooms for a rich all-in-one meal.
Easy Homemade Naan Bread to scoop up every last bit of sauce.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go all-cheese or mix in something extra? Did you make it spicy?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to comfort classics!

Conclusion

This Easy Baked Chili Rellenos recipe makes one of the most beloved Mexican dishes accessible for every home cook. With no need for frying and simple ingredients, it’s a dish full of comfort, flavor, and flexibility. Whether you’re new to rellenos or a longtime fan, this version will be a welcome addition to your dinner rotation.