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Chicken Tamale Casserole

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!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350

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.