Description: Easy to make and full of flavor, this tamale-style casserole layers tender chicken, spiced tomatoes, and cheesy cornbread in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights! It’s a comforting dish that brings together the best elements of chicken tamales without the fuss of individual wrapping. Imagine sinking your fork into layers of savory chicken, zesty tomatoes, and a perfectly golden, cheesy cornbread topping – that’s exactly what this casserole delivers. Whether you’re feeding a family or simply craving a hearty, satisfying meal, this Chicken Tamale Casserole is sure to become a new favorite. The combination of textures and flavors is irresistible, and the ease of preparation makes it a winner for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained (such as Rotel)
- 1 package (8 oz) corn muffin mix (such as Jiffy)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
- 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish
- Optional: 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
Preparation:
step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This is crucial to prevent the casserole from sticking and ensures easy serving. Use cooking spray or a light coating of oil to thoroughly grease the dish. Make sure that the oven is preheated for even baking.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, drained corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained), taco seasoning, diced onion, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices and the other ingredients are well distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more taco seasoning, salt, or pepper to your preference.
Step 3: Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the greased 9×13-inch baking dish. This creates the flavorful base of the casserole. Ensure the mixture is uniformly spread so that each serving contains a consistent amount of chicken, corn, and tomatoes. This helps with even cooking and flavor distribution.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, prepare the cornbread topping. Combine the corn muffin mix, shredded cheese, and chicken broth. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cornbread. The batter should be smooth but slightly thick. The amount of chicken broth may need to be adjusted slightly depending on the brand of corn muffin mix used, aim for a pourable but not too runny consistency.
Step 5: Pour the cornbread mixture evenly over the chicken layer in the baking dish. Use a spatula to gently spread the cornbread mixture to cover the chicken completely. This will create a delicious golden topping. If using, sprinkle black olives over the cornbread mixture before baking.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and set. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cornbread; it should come out clean. If the cornbread is browning too quickly, tent the dish with foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Chicken Tamale Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for so many reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights when you’re short on time but still want a delicious, home-cooked meal. The one-pan preparation means fewer dishes to wash, which is always a bonus! The flavors are bold and comforting, combining the best of Southwestern cuisine in a simple and satisfying way. The combination of tender chicken, sweet corn, zesty tomatoes, and cheesy cornbread is simply irresistible. It’s also highly customizable; you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Add more vegetables, swap out the cheese, or adjust the spice level to create your perfect version of this casserole. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken!
Serving Suggestions:
This Chicken Tamale Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with a variety of side dishes to create a more elaborate spread. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad, such as a simple lettuce and tomato salad with a vinaigrette dressing, to provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. Another great option is Mexican rice or Spanish rice, which complements the Southwestern flavors of the dish perfectly. You can also offer a side of sour cream or guacamole for topping, allowing your guests to customize their servings. For a lighter side, try serving with a side of coleslaw or a corn and black bean salad. Tortilla chips and salsa are also a great addition for dipping and scooping.
Tips:
- Use rotisserie chicken: Using rotisserie chicken is a huge time-saver. Simply shred the chicken and you’re ready to go!
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder flavor, use mild diced tomatoes with green chilies or reduce the amount of taco seasoning. For a spicier casserole, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños.
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the chicken mixture, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or black beans.
- Make it ahead of time: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
- Freeze for later: Leftovers can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different types of cheese in the cornbread topping. Pepper jack cheese adds a bit of spice, while Monterey Jack cheese provides a milder flavor.
- Cornbread mix alternatives: If you don’t have corn muffin mix, you can use a basic cornbread recipe instead.
- Herb Options: Add more flavour with fresh or dried herbs. Add oregano, cumin or paprika.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 30-40g
- Sodium: 700-900mg
Conclusion:
This Chicken Tamale Casserole is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. Its layers of savory chicken, zesty tomatoes, and cheesy cornbread create a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. The simplicity of the recipe and the ability to customize it to your liking make it a versatile and reliable choice for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy this comforting and satisfying one-pan wonder! You will be surprised by the burst of flavours in your mouth.
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken? Yes, absolutely! Ground beef, shredded pork, or even turkey would work well in this recipe. Just make sure the meat is cooked and seasoned before adding it to the casserole.
- Can I make this casserole vegetarian? Definitely! Substitute the chicken with black beans, pinto beans, or a vegetarian ground beef alternative. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
- What if I don’t have diced tomatoes with green chilies? If you can’t find diced tomatoes with green chilies, you can use a can of regular diced tomatoes and add a can of chopped green chilies or a few tablespoons of your favorite hot sauce to get a similar flavor.
- Can I prepare this casserole in a slow cooker? Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Layer the chicken mixture in the bottom of the slow cooker, then pour the cornbread mixture over the top. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the cornbread is set.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover Chicken Tamale Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. It’s also freezer-friendly, so you can freeze individual portions for a quick and easy meal later on.
