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Easy Cheesy Chicken Tamale Bake turns complex tamale tastes into a simple family meal. This filling dish blends soft cornbread with juicy chicken, tangy enchilada sauce, and gooey cheese for a comfort food dinner that'll have everyone rushing to grab seconds.
I first whipped this up when my kid wanted tamales on a hectic Tuesday night. This speedy version became such a family favorite that they now ask for it more than the traditional recipe.
Key Ingredients
- Cornbread mix: forms the tasty tamale-inspired foundation
- Creamed corn: brings sweetness and keeps everything moist
- Green chiles: add gentle spice and classic flavor
- Rotisserie chicken: cuts down prep time while keeping things tasty
- Enchilada sauce: soaks the cornbread with Mexican goodness
- Sharp cheddar: melts into a mouthwatering topping
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Step 1:
- Combine your cornbread mix with creamed corn, green chiles, and a drizzle of honey. The honey works to balance spiciness and boost the corn taste.
- Step 2:
- Spread the mixture in your greased baking dish and bake until barely set. You want a light golden color but still soft enough to poke.
- Step 3:
- Use a fork to make holes all over the warm cornbread. Pour your enchilada sauce evenly so it sinks into those holes.
- Step 4:
- Spread your seasoned chicken pieces evenly across the sauce-soaked base. Make sure it's well distributed for flavor in every bite.
- Step 5:
- Sprinkle plenty of cheese on top and put it back in the oven until bubbly and melted. Let it sit for 10 minutes before cutting.
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My neighbor from Mexico told me that adding a bit of cumin to the chicken really brings out that classic tamale taste. It's now my hidden trick for this dish.
Tasty Side Dishes
Try it with a side of Mexican rice, a scoop of refried beans, or a fresh Southwest salad to round out your meal.
Prep Ahead Suggestions
Get the cornbread layer ready and pull apart your chicken the day before. Just put it all together and bake when you're ready to eat.
Fun Toppings
Put out bowls of chopped avocado, fresh cilantro sprigs, lime slices, and Mexican crema for everyone to add their favorites.
Ways To Switch It Up
Switch chicken for other meats or go veggie with black beans and extra corn kernels.
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This bake has turned into my reliable standby for shared dinners and family get-togethers. It strikes that perfect balance between genuine tamale flavors and time-saving shortcuts, making it a trusted go-to for any gathering.
Common Questions
- → Is the cornbread base supposed to be soft?
- Definitely. It should stay soft to mimic traditional tamale masa, more pudding-like than your typical firm cornbread.
- → Can I substitute the chicken?
- Absolutely. You can swap in some black beans, pulled pork, or even browned ground beef instead.
- → How long does it need to bake?
- You'll want to cook the base for about 20-25 minutes first, then another 15 minutes once you've added your toppings.
- → What toppings can I add?
- Fresh cilantro, chunky salsa, a dollop of sour cream, or any of your favorite Tex-Mex extras would work great.
- → Why pierce holes in the cornbread?
- Those little holes let the yummy enchilada sauce soak down into the cornbread layer below.