Chicken Tamale Casserole
I’m always on the hunt for simple and easy weeknight dinner recipes that will satisfy my family and keep them smiling. That’s why I absolutely adore this super easy and incredibly cheesy Chicken Tamale Casserole!
This dish captures all the delightful flavors of traditional tamales in a convenient casserole form, and the best part is, it takes less than an hour to make from start to finish. As a huge fan of all things Mexican cuisine, I knew this casserole would be a hit at my dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Tamale Casserole is the perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. It delivers the authentic taste of tamales without the hassle of traditional preparation. Plus, it’s loaded with cheese, which makes everything better! Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to please.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch casserole dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Ingredients
- 8.5 oz corn muffin mix (such as Jiffy)
- 14.5 oz cream-style corn
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 2 cups taco cheese blend, shredded, divided
- 1 1/2 cups enchilada sauce
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken (from rotisserie chicken)
Optional Toppings:
- Diced tomato
- Sour cream
- Shredded lettuce
- Sliced black olives
- Chopped green onions
- Finely chopped cilantro
- Salsa
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Lightly spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the corn muffin mix, cream-style corn, eggs, milk, chili powder, cumin, and 1 cup of cheese. Stir the mixture until combined, then pour it into the prepared casserole dish. Bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the dish from the oven and use a knife to pierce the cornbread mixture several times all over. Pour the enchilada sauce over the top of the casserole. Add the shredded chicken and the remaining cheese on top. Bake for an additional 20 minutes.
- Allow the casserole to cool for 10 minutes before slicing it into pieces. Serve with your choice of optional toppings and enjoy!
Tips for Success
For the best results, make sure to evenly distribute the enchilada sauce and cheese to ensure every bite is flavorful. Using a rotisserie chicken can save you time and add extra flavor to the dish.
Additional Tips or Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting the shredded chicken with equal amounts of shredded pork or beef for a different twist. You can also add some jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick!
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving of this casserole is packed with protein and flavor, making it a satisfying meal for any night of the week. Remember to adjust portion sizes based on your dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the cornbread base and toppings separately, then assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
I hope this Chicken Tamale Casserole becomes a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. It’s easy, delicious, and sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Give it a try and don’t forget to share your thoughts and any creative variations you come up with in the comments below!