Chicken Tamale Casserole

It’s a homemade version of tamales!!! A hearty Chicken Tamale Casserole made without rolling, with cornbread and lots ‘n lots of cheese. Adapt this recipe to whatever toppings you have – spicy or mild. This one is all about that creamy corn layer!

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This is a homemade version of the classic Tamale Pie which is a little optimistically labelled with “easy weeknight dinner!!” Because let’s be honest – traditional tamales can only be made so fast.

And while we’re on the topic, there’s not that much filling in the store-bought ones either. (And I STILL loved them growing up!)

Hence the beauty of homemade casserole!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Busy evenings feel easier with a dish that handles itself in the oven and still tastes special. Chicken Tamale Casserole checks all the right boxes.

Comfort food feel: Warm corn flavor with saucy chicken hits that cozy spot.

Simple prep: No rolling or wrapping needed at all.

Family friendly: Mild spice with cheesy goodness.

Great texture: Soft inside with a lightly golden top.

One dish dinner: Protein, sauce, and base all together.

Leftover friendly: Tastes even better the next day.

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Ingredients

For the Cornmeal Base:

• ½ cup cornmeal
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
• ⅓ cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup creamed corn

For the Filling:

• 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
• 10 ounces enchilada sauce
• 4.5 ounces diced green chiles
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese shredded
• 1 cup Tex Mex cheddar cheese shredded

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Step by Step Instructions

1. Heat the Oven

Start by setting the oven to 375°F. Let it fully warm while you prepare the casserole so the bake starts evenly.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl combine cornmeal, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Stir until everything looks evenly mixed with no clumps.

3. Add the Wet Ingredients

Pour in melted butter, buttermilk, egg, and creamed corn. Stir gently until the batter looks thick, smooth, and well blended.

4. Prepare the Chicken Filling

Place shredded chicken in a separate bowl. Add enchilada sauce and diced green chiles. Stir until the chicken feels fully coated and saucy.

5. Assemble the Layers

Grease a baking dish lightly with butter. Spread half of the cornmeal batter across the bottom. Spoon the chicken mixture evenly over the top.

6. Add the Cheese

Sprinkle both cheeses evenly over the chicken layer. Make sure the edges get cheese too for extra flavor.

7. Finish with Corn Batter

Carefully spread the remaining cornmeal mixture over the cheese. It does not need to cover perfectly since it spreads as it bakes.

8. Bake Until Set

Place the dish in the oven and bake for forty to forty five minutes. The top should look golden and feel set in the center.

9. Rest Before Cutting

Let the casserole sit for ten minutes after baking. This helps the layers hold together when serving.

Tips & Variations

• Add a pinch of chili powder to the chicken.
• Stir a few tablespoons of sour cream into the filling.
• Mix whole corn kernels into the batter.
• Pepper Jack adds extra warmth.
• Assemble earlier and bake when ready.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Tamale Casserole works beautifully as a full meal with simple sides. A crisp green salad with lime dressing balances the richness nicely.

For a heartier spread, serve it with Spanish rice or refried beans. I like adding fresh toppings at the table like chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, or a spoon of sour cream to brighten each serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can rotisserie chicken work?

Yes it saves time and adds flavor.

Is this casserole spicy?

It stays mild with gentle warmth.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes wrap tightly and freeze up to two months.

Does it reheat well?

It warms beautifully in the oven or microwave.

Can milk replace buttermilk?

Yes add a splash of vinegar to the milk.

What size dish works best?

A standard nine by thirteen dish works well.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Tamale Casserole brings all the comfort of tamales without the extra steps. The corn base stays soft, the chicken stays saucy, and the cheese ties everything together in the best way.

This dish fits nights when you want warmth and flavor without stress. Each bite feels filling and familiar, making it a recipe that earns a regular spot in the dinner rotation.