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Simple & Gooey Chicken Tamale Bake turns classic tamale taste into a no-fuss family dinner. This filling meal brings together moist chicken and sweet cornbread topped with tangy enchilada sauce and gooey cheese for a comforting dish that'll have everyone rushing to grab seconds.
I came up with this shortcut when my kid asked for tamales on a crazy-busy Tuesday night. This quick version has become so popular that my family now asks for it more than the traditional kind.
Key Ingredients
- Cornbread mix: forms the delicious tamale-inspired foundation
- Creamed corn: brings needed moisture and natural sweetness
- Green chiles: add gentle spice and traditional flavor
- Rotisserie chicken: cuts prep time while keeping things tasty
- Enchilada sauce: soaks the cornbread with Mexican goodness
- Sharp cheddar: makes an amazing melty topping
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Step 1:
- Combine cornbread batter with creamed corn, green chiles, and a drizzle of honey. The honey works to balance spiciness and boost corn flavor.
- Step 2:
- Spread mixture in your greased baking dish and cook until barely set. You want a pale golden top that's still soft enough to poke.
- Step 3:
- Use a fork to make holes all over the warm cornbread. Pour enchilada sauce over everything so it can soak through the holes.
- Step 4:
- Spread your seasoned shredded chicken over the sauce-soaked base. Make sure it's evenly spread for balanced flavor in every serving.
- Step 5:
- Sprinkle plenty of cheese on top and bake again until bubbly and melted. Let it sit for 10 minutes before cutting.
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The lady next door who makes amazing Mexican food told me adding just a tiny bit of cumin to the chicken makes it taste more like real tamales. Now I can't make it without that little trick.
Tasty Side Dishes
Try it with a side of Spanish rice, creamy beans, or a fresh Southwest green salad to round out your meal.
Do-Ahead Tricks
You can make the cornbread layer and pull apart your chicken the day before. Then just put it all together and bake when you're ready to eat.
Topping Suggestions
Put out bowls of diced avocado, fresh chopped cilantro, lime slices, and Mexican sour cream for everyone to add their favorites.
Ways to Switch It Up
Swap chicken for another meat or go meatless with black beans and corn kernels instead.
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This easy dish has turned into my number one pick for group dinners and family get-togethers. It walks the line between authentic tamale flavors and modern-day ease, making it my trusty standby for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Is the base meant to stay soft?
- Yep, it should be soft like tamale dough, more pudding-like and less like firm cornbread.
- → Can I swap out the chicken?
- Sure, you can use black beans, pork, or ground beef as alternatives.
- → How long do I bake it?
- Bake the cornbread layer 20-25 minutes, then another 15 minutes with the toppings.
- → What toppings work best?
- You can add salsa, sour cream, cilantro, or any Tex-Mex favorite.
- → Why make holes in the cornbread?
- The openings let the sauce soak into the base, adding to the flavor.