Chicken Tamale Pie Clara quick dinners

Chicken Tamale Pie is a comforting, flavor-packed casserole that combines a soft, cornbread-like tamale base with shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, melty cheese, and your favorite Tex-Mex toppings. It’s an easy, family-friendly dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving the cozy flavor of tamales—without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• All the flavor of tamales, none of the rolling or wrapping
• One-pan, oven-baked, and easy to assemble
• Uses pantry staples and rotisserie chicken for convenience
• Hearty, satisfying, and great for leftovers
• Customizable with your favorite toppings and add-ins

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the tamale base:

• Cornmeal
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Egg
• Milk (or buttermilk)
• Creamed corn
• Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• Butter (melted)

For the topping:

• Shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works great)
• Red enchilada sauce
• Additional shredded cheese
• Optional: diced green chiles or jalapeños

Optional toppings:

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Diced avocado or guacamole
• Fresh cilantro
• Sliced green onions
• Salsa or pico de gallo
• Hot sauce

directions

1. Preheat oven: Set oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or large oven-safe skillet.
2. Make the tamale base: In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in egg, milk, creamed corn, cheese, and melted butter until combined.
3. Bake the base: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 2025 minutes, or until just set and lightly golden on top.
4. Add toppings: Remove from oven. Use a fork to poke holes in the surface of the cornbread base. Pour enchilada sauce evenly over the top. Layer on shredded chicken, green chiles (if using), and shredded cheese.
5. Bake again: Return to the oven for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and serve: Let rest for 510 minutes, then slice and serve with your favorite toppings.

Servings and timing

Serves 68
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Make it spicy: Use spicy enchilada sauce, jalapeños, or pepper jack cheese.
• Add beans: Stir black beans or pinto beans into the chicken mixture.
• Make it vegetarian: Use beans, sautéed veggies, or plant-based meat in place of chicken.
• Use green enchilada sauce: For a tangier twist with salsa verde vibes.
• Top with corn chips: Add a layer of crushed tortilla chips before baking for crunch.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Can be frozen (fully baked) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

FAQs

What’s the texture of the tamale base?

It’s soft, moist, and cornbread-like—similar to a tamale, but fluffier.

Can I use cornbread mix instead?

Yes! A boxed mix like Jiffy can work in a pinch—just reduce or skip the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Is this dish spicy?

Not inherently, but it can be made spicy with hot enchilada sauce or added chilies.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely—shredded rotisserie chicken, grilled, or even poached chicken works great.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble up to the second bake, then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What’s the best cheese to use?

A mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend melts beautifully and adds flavor.

Can I make it in a cast iron skillet?

Yes, a well-seasoned large cast iron skillet works great and goes from stovetop to oven.

Is this gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your cornmeal and enchilada sauce are certified gluten-free.

What should I serve with it?

Try a side salad, Mexican rice, chips and guac, or roasted veggies.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger baking dish or two 9×13 pans—great for crowds or meal prep.

Conclusion

Chicken Tamale Pie is a hearty, comforting twist on classic tamales that delivers all the flavor without the hassle. With a soft cornbread base, saucy chicken, melty cheese, and your favorite toppings, this one-dish wonder is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. It’s easy, customizable, and absolutely delicious—what more could you ask for?

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