Chicken Tamale Casserole

There’s nothing quite like the cozy comfort of a homemade Chicken Tamale Casserole. I remember the first time I had it at a friend’s family gathering—warm, hearty, and bursting with flavor. It quickly became a staple in my kitchen, especially during busy weeknights when I crave something satisfying but don’t have hours to spare. The blend of chicken, cheese, and enchilada sauce creates a delightful layered effect that’s not only visually appealing but also a party for your taste buds. Every time I prepare it, the aroma fills my home, drawing my family and friends to the kitchen like moths to a flame.

The ease of this recipe makes it perfect for gatherings or just a simple family dinner. You can prepare the Chicken Tamale Casserole ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready, making it an ideal choice for those hectic evenings. Plus, it’s versatile—feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or additional ingredients. Trust me, once you experience the comforting embrace of a fresh-out-of-the-oven Chicken Tamale Casserole, you’ll find yourself making it over and over again!

Recipe Ingredients for Chicken Tamale Casserole

When it comes to crafting a delicious Chicken Tamale Casserole, the ingredients play a vital role in bringing the dish to life. Each component contributes to the overall flavor profile, creating a balance that’s undeniably satisfying. The key players in this recipe include creamed corn for sweetness, corn muffin mix for texture, and of course, the chicken for protein.

• Creamed Corn: 1 (14 3/4-oz) can provides a rich, creamy base that enhances the casserole’s texture and flavor.
• Corn Muffin Mix: 1 (8.5-oz) box gives the dish a sweet and moist crumb that pairs beautifully with other ingredients.
• Chopped Green Chiles: 1 (4.5-oz) can adds a touch of heat and depth, making every bite exciting.
• Sour Cream: 1/4 cup adds creaminess and tang, balancing the flavors perfectly.
• Egg: 1 helps bind the ingredients together, providing structure to the casserole.
• Ground Cumin: 1 teaspoon introduces a warm, earthy tone that compliments the chicken beautifully.
• Shredded Mexican Blend Cheese: 1 1/2 cups, divided, brings melty goodness that everyone loves.
• Shredded Cooked Chicken: 2 cups, using rotisserie chicken makes it quick and adds rich flavor.
• Red Enchilada Sauce: 1 (10-oz) can is the finishing touch that infuses the casserole with vibrant flavor.
• Toppings: Include sour cream, diced avocado, diced tomatoes, and cilantro for a fresh finish.

Preparation Steps for Chicken Tamale Casserole

Getting ready to make the Chicken Tamale Casserole is part of the fun! You’ll love how easy the preparation is, and the steps are straightforward—perfect for even novice cooks. Let’s dive into making this flavorful dish together.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and spray a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray to ensure your casserole won’t stick.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamed corn, corn muffin mix, chopped green chiles, sour cream, egg, ground cumin, and half a cup of the shredded Mexican blend cheese. Mix until everything is well incorporated, and you have a smooth batter.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the middle is set. You want it to be firm but slightly soft to the touch.
4. Once baked, use the back of a wooden spoon or any utensil to create dents in the top surface. This allows the enchilada sauce to seep in and flavor the casserole.
5. In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the red enchilada sauce, ensuring the chicken is well-coated.
6. Pour the chicken mixture over the baked corn layer, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining shredded cheese for a cheesy finish.
7. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The aroma will be irresistible at this point!
8. Once finished, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. This helps it set up a bit, making it easier to slice.
9. Slice the casserole into squares and serve hot, topped with sour cream, diced avocado, diced tomatoes, and fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Tamale Casserole!

Ways to Customize

If you’re as excited about making this Chicken Tamale Casserole as I am, you might want to explore different ways to personalize your dish. Here are some tips to get you started:

• Add Beans: Incorporate black beans or pinto beans into the chicken mixture for added protein and fiber.
• Spice It Up: For extra heat, consider adding diced jalapenos to the corn mixture or using a spicier enchilada sauce.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or cheddar, for a unique flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
• Different Sauces: Try using salsa verde instead of enchilada sauce for a lighter flavor.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before baking; just cover it well. When ready, bake from frozen, adding extra time.

Side Dish Ideas for Chicken Tamale Casserole

Serving your Chicken Tamale Casserole can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette pairs perfectly, balancing the richness of the casserole.
• Spanish Rice: Serve with a side of seasoned Spanish rice for a traditional combination.
• Guacamole: Offering some homemade guacamole adds a creamy element that complements the flavors well.
• Cornbread: A slice of cornbread would be a delightful addition, enhancing the corn theme.
• Fruit Salsa: A fresh fruit salsa with mango or pineapple can add a sweet contrast to the savory casserole.
• Occasions: This dish is great for gatherings, family meals, or even casual parties.
• Seasonal Pairings: Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy winter nights, it fits any occasion.

FAQ

Conclusion

What makes the Chicken Tamale Casserole special is its perfect blend of comforting flavors and ease of preparation. This dish truly captures the essence of home-cooked goodness, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings. I encourage you to try it for yourself—you’ll find it’s a satisfying dish that brings everyone together at the table!

Chicken Tamale Casserole

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Tamale Casserole is a creamy, cheesy dish loaded with flavor. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing feast, it combines tender chicken and zesty enchilada sauce for a satisfying meal. Make it tonight!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 can Creamed Corn 14 3/4-oz size
• 1 box Corn Muffin Mix 8.5-oz size
• 1 can Chopped Green Chiles 4.5-oz size
• 1/4 cup Sour Cream
• 1 Egg
• 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
• 1 1/2 cups Shredded Mexican Blend Cheese divided
• 2 cups Shredded Cooked Chicken Rotisserie chicken works well
• 1 can Red Enchilada Sauce 10-oz size
• Toppings: sour cream, diced avocado, diced tomatoes, cilantro

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Cutting Board
• Baking Sheet
• Oven
• Blender

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and spray a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray to ensure your casserole won’t stick.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamed corn, corn muffin mix, chopped green chiles, sour cream, egg, ground cumin, and half a cup of the shredded Mexican blend cheese. Mix until everything is well incorporated, and you have a smooth batter.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the middle is set. You want it to be firm but slightly soft to the touch.
4. Once baked, use the back of a wooden spoon or any utensil to create dents in the top surface. This allows the enchilada sauce to seep in and flavor the casserole.
5. In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the red enchilada sauce, ensuring the chicken is well-coated.
6. Pour the chicken mixture over the baked corn layer, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining shredded cheese for a cheesy finish.
7. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The aroma will be irresistible at this point!
8. Once finished, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. This helps it set up a bit, making it easier to slice.
9. Slice the casserole into squares and serve hot, topped with sour cream, diced avocado, diced tomatoes, and fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Tamale Casserole!

Notes

• Add Beans: Incorporate black beans or pinto beans into the chicken mixture for added protein and fiber.
• Spice It Up: For extra heat, consider adding diced jalapenos to the corn mixture or using a spicier enchilada sauce.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or cheddar, for a unique flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
• Different Sauces: Try using salsa verde instead of enchilada sauce for a lighter flavor.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before baking; just cover it well. When ready, bake from frozen, adding extra time.

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Meet Simone Patel

Food is the ultimate connector, and I approach every recipe with the host in mind. I focus on creating meals that scale well for crowds and make entertaining effortless. I cooked and tested this meal to ensure it holds up beautifully from the stove to the serving platter, ready for your guests.