Description
Chicken Tamale Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that layers tender shredded chicken with a flavorful tamale-inspired masa mixture, topped with melted cheese and baked to golden perfection. It combines the bold, nostalgic flavors of tamales into an easy-to-make casserole that’s perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
Masa Mixture
- 1 cup corn masa harina
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: Begin by shredding the cooked chicken. In a skillet, sauté the diced onions and minced garlic until they become translucent and fragrant. Stir in the diced green chilies and spices (cumin and chili powder) to create a flavorful aromatic base.
- Make the Masa Mixture: In a bowl, combine the corn masa harina with chicken broth and sour cream until the mixture is smooth but slightly thickened. This masa mixture provides the characteristic tamale-like texture for the casserole.
- Assemble the Layers: Grease a casserole dish and spread half of the masa mixture evenly on the bottom. Layer the shredded chicken mixture on top of the masa, then sprinkle a generous layer of the cheese blend. Add the remaining masa mixture over the cheese, and finish with a final layer of cheese on top to create a golden crust when baked.
- Bake Until Perfect: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. After baking, let the casserole rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving to allow it to set.
Notes
- Use fresh masa harina for the best texture; expired masa can affect the flavor and consistency.
- Avoid overmixing the masa mixture to prevent a tough texture.
- Shred the chicken while it’s still warm for fluffier, tender pieces.
- Even layering is key to ensure each bite has a balanced combination of masa, chicken, and cheese.
- Allow the casserole to rest before serving to help it set and slice cleanly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg