Why the Chicken Tamale Pie Is a Great Chicken Dish
When I think about comfort food, the Chicken Tamale Pie always comes to mind. This dish combines tender chicken with a savory mix of flavors that just warms my heart.
I love how it’s hearty yet not overly heavy, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. The blend of spices gives it a kick, keeping each bite exciting.
Plus, it’s so easy to prepare; I often whip it up after a long day. Whether I’m sharing it with friends or enjoying it solo, the Chicken Tamale Pie is a delightful chicken dish that never disappoints.
Ingredients of Chicken Tamale Pie
When you’re gearing up to make a delicious Chicken Tamale Pie, having the right ingredients on hand is essential. This dish isn’t only hearty but also packed with flavor, making it a favorite in many households.
Plus, the ingredients are pretty straightforward, so you won’t have to go on a scavenger hunt at the grocery store. Trust me, I’ve made that mistake before, and it’s not fun. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to get started on this comforting dish.
Here’s your ingredient list:
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped (or a generous spoonful from that jar you keep in the fridge)
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (like Frank’s or Tabasco)
- 2 (10 ounce) cans Ro-Tel tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups cornmeal
- 2 cups milk (I like to use 1%)
- 2 cups cream-style corn
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- Salt and pepper to taste
Now that you have your ingredients, let’s chat a bit about them. You might be wondering, can I substitute the chicken? Sure! If you’re feeling adventurous, shredded rotisserie chicken works great and saves you some time, which is a total win in my book.
And if you’re not a fan of spicy food, feel free to adjust the chili powder and hot sauce to suit your taste buds. Remember, cooking is all about making it your own, so don’t be afraid to tweak it.
Just be prepared for the delightful aromas that will fill your kitchen as you whip this up. Trust me, it’s worth every minute.
How to Make Chicken Tamale Pie
Making a Chicken Tamale Pie is a delightful adventure in the kitchen, and it starts with a bit of prep work. First things first, grab your 1/4 cup of vegetable oil and a large skillet. Heat that oil over medium heat, and once it’s shimmering, toss in your 2 chopped medium onions and 4 cloves of chopped garlic. You want to sauté these until they’re nice and translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes.
And let me tell you, there’s something magical about the smell of onions and garlic cooking together. It’s like a warm hug for your senses.
Now, let’s get to the star of the show: the chicken. Take your 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast and chop it into smaller pieces, adding it to the skillet as it browns. Make sure to sprinkle in some salt, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, and your 1 teaspoon of hot sauce (Frank’s or Tabasco, you pick). Stir it all together, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. You might want to sneak a taste—just to be sure it’s not too spicy. Cooking is all about adjustments, right?
After that, stir in 2 cups of cornmeal and 2 cups of milk (I usually go with 1%), and let it cook for another 15 minutes, stirring frequently so nothing sticks to the bottom. It’s during this time that you’ll really start to feel the excitement—you’re almost there!
Once that mixture is cooked through, it’s time to incorporate the sweet stuff. Add in your 2 cups of cream-style corn and the 15-ounce can of drained corn. Mix it all together until it’s a homogenous blend of goodness.
Now, grab a 13 x 9 pan and spray it with some cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour your chicken mixture into the pan, spreading it out evenly. Then, pop it into a preheated oven at 350 degrees and let it bake for about an hour. Keep an eye on it—you’re looking for a lovely golden brown finish.
And believe me, when it starts to smell divine, you’ll wish the hour would fly by. But hang tight; the wait is oh-so-worth it.
Chicken Tamale Pie Substitutions & Variations
Have you ever thought about how you can customize your Chicken Tamale Pie to suit your taste?
I love experimenting with different proteins, like swapping chicken for ground turkey or even black beans for a vegetarian option. For a twist, try adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor.
Instead of Ro-Tel, you might use fresh tomatoes or salsa for a fresher taste. I also like to mix in different cheeses; cheddar or pepper jack can give it a nice kick.
Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices to match your preferences, too. The possibilities are endless!
What to Serve with Chicken Tamale Pie
What pairs perfectly with a comforting Chicken Tamale Pie? I love serving a fresh green salad drizzled with a zesty lime vinaigrette.
The crispness of the greens adds a nice contrast to the rich pie. For a bit of heat, I often prepare some sliced jalapeños or a spicy salsa on the side.
If you’re in the mood for something creamy, a dollop of sour cream or guacamole complements the flavors beautifully.
To wash it all down, I recommend an invigorating drink like iced tea or a bubbly lime soda. It all comes together for a delightful meal!
Additional Tips & Notes
When serving Chicken Tamale Pie, it’s also helpful to keep a few additional tips in mind to enhance your cooking experience.
First, don’t hesitate to customize the spice level; you can add more hot sauce or jalapeños if you like it fiery.
I recommend letting the pie rest for about 10 minutes before serving; this helps it set up nicely.
For a twist, consider adding black beans or bell peppers to the filling.
Finally, serve with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for extra creaminess.
Enjoy experimenting, and make it your own!