Chicken Tamale Pie – An Easy Dinner That Always Satisfies!
If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that comes together with minimal effort and maximum flavor, look no further than Chicken Tamale Pie. This easy, cheesy, and richly flavored casserole combines the sweetness of cornbread with the spiced goodness of chicken enchiladas in one hearty, satisfying dish.
It’s the perfect choice for busy weeknights, potlucks, or whenever you want something warm, cheesy, and incredibly delicious on the table—fast.
What Is Chicken Tamale Pie?
Chicken Tamale Pie is a layered casserole-style dish inspired by the flavors of traditional tamales, but without the work of assembling individual corn husk bundles. Instead, it features a moist cornbread base, topped with enchilada sauce, seasoned shredded chicken, and melty cheese, all baked until bubbly and golden.
This version is easy to customize, make ahead, and reheat—making it a go-to meal for families and meal preppers alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to bring this comforting dish to life:
🔸 Cornbread Base:
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 (15 oz) can cream-style corn
- 1 (8.5 oz) box cornbread or muffin mix (like Jiffy)
- 1 (4 oz) can chopped green chiles
- Pinch of kosher salt and ground black pepper
🔸 Topping:
- 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Mexican blend)
🔸 Optional Garnishes:
- Sliced green onions
- Fresh chopped cilantro
- Sour cream or Mexican crema
Step-by-Step Instructions
🔹 Step 1: Prepare the Cornbread Base
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×9-inch or 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine:
- Milk
- Egg
- Cream-style corn
- Cornbread mix
- Green chiles
- Salt and pepper
- Stir until just combined. Don’t overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are golden brown.
🔹 Step 2: Poke & Sauce the Cornbread
- Once baked, remove from oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
- Use a fork to poke holes all over the surface—this helps the sauce seep into the cornbread.
- Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the entire surface.
🔹 Step 3: Add Chicken and Cheese
- In a medium bowl, toss the shredded chicken with taco seasoning.
- Spread the seasoned chicken over the sauced cornbread.
- Sprinkle the top generously with shredded cheese.
🔹 Step 4: Bake Again
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for 15 more minutes, or until:
- The cheese is fully melted
- The edges are bubbling
- If desired, broil for the last 2 minutes for a golden cheese top.
🔹 Step 5: Add Toppings & Serve
Top your Chicken Tamale Pie with:
- Green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- A dollop of sour cream
Serve hot and enjoy every bite of this cheesy, spicy, and satisfying dish!
Why This Recipe Works
- ✅ Quick & easy: No rolling or steaming tamales!
- ✅ One pan: Fewer dishes to wash.
- ✅ Affordable ingredients: Uses pantry staples.
- ✅ Great for leftovers: Just reheat and eat.
- ✅ Customizable: Use beef, turkey, or vegetarian alternatives.
Tips & Variations
- Make it spicier: Add diced jalapeños to the cornbread batter or use a hot enchilada sauce.
- Swap the protein: Ground beef, pulled pork, or black beans work wonderfully.
- Add veggies: Sautéed bell peppers, corn, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Double it: Use a 9×13″ pan for larger crowds or meal prep.
- Make it gluten-free: Use a certified gluten-free cornbread mix.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but here are some sides and toppings that pair perfectly:
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Mexican rice | Balances the savory richness of the pie |
| Refried beans | Classic Tex-Mex combo |
| Simple green salad | Adds freshness and crunch |
| Avocado slices or guacamole | Creamy and cooling |
| Pico de gallo | Adds a fresh, zesty bite |
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 350°F oven until heated through.
- Freeze tightly wrapped portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Why You’ll Make This Chicken Tamale Pie Again and Again
This dish delivers the essence of tamales—corn, spice, and meat—in a form that’s incredibly accessible. It’s perfect for busy families, potlucks, or cozy nights in. With every layer offering a different texture and flavor, this is one of those easy dinners that people ask for on repeat.
Make it once, and it just might become a new family favorite.