Making a delicious chicken tamale pie involves a combination of flavorful ingredients and a few simple steps. Here’s a recipe that will help you create a delightful chicken tamale pie that’s sure to impress:
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup salsa (your favorite level of spiciness)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a Mexican blend)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 small onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Tamale-style Cornbread Topping:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Sauté Optional Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion and bell pepper until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, cumin, chili powder, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the chicken mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Cornbread Topping
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the milk, oil (or melted butter), and eggs. Mix well, then pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. If using, fold in the additional 1 cup of shredded cheese.
- Spread Mixture: Carefully spread the cornbread batter over the chicken filling. It doesn’t have to be perfect; it will spread out as it cooks.
Step 3: Bake the Tamale Pie
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cornbread comes out clean.
Step 4: Serve
- Cool Slightly: Allow the tamale pie to cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set a bit.
- Garnish: You can top it with fresh cilantro, sour cream, avocado, or extra salsa for added flavor and presentation.
- Enjoy: Slice into squares and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious chicken tamale pie!
Tips for Extra Deliciousness
- Add Spice: If you like it spicier, consider adding diced jalapeños to the filling or using spicier salsa.
- Toppings: Customize your toppings with ingredients like olives, green onions, or diced tomatoes.
- Leftovers: This dish reheats well and can be frozen for later enjoyment.
Enjoy cooking and savoring your tasty chicken tamale pie.
