Chicken Tamale Pie is a warm, comforting dish that combines tender shredded chicken, zesty enchilada sauce, and a soft, slightly sweet cornbread topping. It’s everything you love about tamales—without all the work. Baked in one pan, it’s full of flavor, texture, and a little bit of spice, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or potluck favorite.
Ingredients
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1 cup cornmeal
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1 cup milk
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1 egg
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½ teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1 (14-ounce) can creamed corn
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1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles
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1 teaspoon chili powder
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
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2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
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1 cup red enchilada sauce
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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½ teaspoon cumin
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Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, jalapeños
Cooking Time
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Cook time: 30 minutes
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Total time: 40 minutes
Serving
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Serves 6
Instructions
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Preheat Oven:
Set oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. -
Make the Corn Layer:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together cornmeal, milk, egg, salt, baking powder, and chili powder. Stir in creamed corn, diced green chiles, and ½ cup of cheddar cheese until combined. -
Bake the Base:
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 20 minutes, until just set in the middle. -
Prepare Chicken Mixture:
While the base bakes, heat olive oil in a skillet. Add shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, and cumin. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors. -
Layer the Pie:
Remove the cornbread base from the oven and poke holes across the top using a fork. Pour the chicken mixture evenly over it. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. -
Final Bake:
Return to the oven for 10 more minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly. -
Serve:
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Top with sour cream, avocado, cilantro, or jalapeños if desired.
Tips
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Use green enchilada sauce for a milder flavor.
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Add black beans or corn kernels to the chicken layer for extra heartiness.
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For spice lovers, mix chipotle powder or hot sauce into the chicken filling.
Nutrition (per serving)
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Calories: 420
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Protein: 28g
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Fat: 18g
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Carbohydrates: 38g
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Fiber: 4g
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Sugar: 6g
This Chicken Tamale Pie brings the classic taste of Mexican tamales to your table in a cozy, easy-to-make casserole. Every spoonful has the perfect mix of sweet cornbread and savory, saucy chicken—pure comfort in a bite.
