Chicken Tamales: A Flavor Fiesta!

Recipe Introduction: Chicken Tamales, Anyone?

Fancy a proper taste of mexico without the jet lag? ever wondered if you could whip up something as comforting as mum's sunday roast, but with a south-of-the-border twist? this chicken tamale recipe is just the ticket.

These homemade chicken tamales aren’t just food. they’re a hug in a corn husk. they boast tender chicken, simmered in a smoky, slightly spicy chili sauce.

All wrapped in fluffy masa. what makes them special? the flavour, of course!

A Little History and a Lot of Flavour: Tamales Demystified

Tamales have been around for centuries, originating in mesoamerica. they’re a staple in mexican cuisine, often enjoyed during celebrations. don’t let that scare you.

This shredded chicken tamale recipe isn't scary hard to make. it takes about 3 hours 15 minutes, and makes 12-16 gorgeous tamales.

The Benefits? Beyond Just Being Delicious

Besides being absolutely scrumptious, this authentic chicken tamale recipe packs a decent protein punch. it’s perfect for a family dinner, a potluck, or even a festive gathering.

Imagine serving up a plate of these bad boys during your next garden party.

Want an Easy Casserole Recipes version of this recipe? Check out the section about Chicken Tamale Pie With Masa!

Let's Talk About the Bits and Bobs You'll Need

First, grab your dried corn husks. i like to get the 8-ounce packs. soaking them is key, like a good cuppa after a long day.

Get ready to make some chicken recipes casserole with this basic recipe. the next thing is to get the following things so we can move onto making our best chicken tamale recipe :

• 2 pounds (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup / 150g)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces / 411g) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (7 ounces / 198g) chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped (use 1-2 peppers for medium heat, more for spicier)
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) chili powder
• ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) salt
• ¼ teaspoon (1.25ml) black pepper
• 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
• 4 cups (450g) masa harina (instant corn flour for tamales)
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) baking powder
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) salt
• 1 cup (227g) vegetable shortening, softened (or lard, if you're feeling particularly traditional)
• 3 – 3 ½ cups (720-840ml) warm chicken broth

Alright, let’s dive into what you'll need to whip up this chicken tamale recipe . trust me, it's simpler than figuring out british train timetables.

We are going to talk about the ingredients you need to prepare the best chicken tamales .

Chicken Tamales: A Flavor Fiesta! Recipe Card

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Preparation time:01 Hrs 45 Mins

Cooking time:01 Hrs 30 Mins

Servings:12-16 Tamales

Ingredients:

• 1 package (8 ounces / 227g) dried corn husks
• 2 pounds (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup / 150g)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces / 411g) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (7 ounces / 198g) chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) chili powder
• ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) salt
• ¼ teaspoon (1.25ml) black pepper
• 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
• 4 cups (450g) masa harina (instant corn flour for tamales)
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) baking powder
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) salt
• 1 cup (227g) vegetable shortening, softened
• 3 – 3 ½ cups (720-840ml) warm chicken broth

Instructions:

• Soak corn husks in hot water for at least 1 hour until softened and pliable. Drain well.
• Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown chicken thighs on both sides.
• Add onion and garlic and cook until softened.
• Stir in diced tomatoes, chipotle peppers, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
• Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook until chicken is cooked through and easily shreds (about 20-25 minutes).
• Remove chicken from pot and shred with two forks. Return shredded chicken to the sauce, mix well, and simmer for another 10 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
• In a large bowl, whisk together masa harina, baking powder, and salt.
• In a separate bowl (or using a stand mixer), beat softened shortening until light and fluffy.
• Gradually add the masa harina mixture to the shortening, alternating with warm chicken broth, until a soft, slightly wet dough forms. The dough should spread easily but hold its shape.
• Spread about 2-3 tablespoons of masa dough onto the smooth side of a corn husk, leaving a border at the edges.
• Top with about 2-3 tablespoons of chicken filling.
• Fold the sides of the corn husk over the filling, and then fold up the bottom. Secure with a strip of corn husk if needed.
• Place the tamales upright in a steamer basket inside a large pot with boiling water, ensuring the water level is below the basket.
• Cover tightly and steam for 1 hour 30 minutes, or until the masa is firm and easily pulls away from the husk. Check the water level periodically and add more as needed.
• Let tamales rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Calories:350-450

Fat:15-20g

Fiber:5-7g

Recipe Info

Category:Main Course

Cuisine:Mexican

Gear Up: Ingredients & Equipment

Before we get our hands dirty (in a good way!), let's make sure we have everything sorted. this section should help you navigate your way to the authentic chicken tamale recipe .

Plus, i'll give you some insider tips, like my nan used to, on what to look for.

Main Ingredients: Your Tamale Toolkit

Right, let's get down to brass tacks, yeah?

• Corn husks: 1 package ( 8 ounces / 227g ) dried corn husks. quality tip: look for husks that are relatively clean and unbroken.

  Soak them in hot water for at least 1 hour or until pliable. this is crucial to be able to work with them easily.

• Chicken thighs: 2 pounds (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs. quality tip: thighs give you a richer flavor than breast. trust me, it's worth it.

  This is going to make the best shredded chicken tamale recipe

• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (15ml) .

• Onion: 1 medium, chopped (about 1 cup / 150g ).

• Garlic: 2 cloves , minced.

• Diced Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 ounces / 411g) , undrained.

• Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: 1 can (7 ounces / 198g) , chopped (use 1-2 peppers for medium heat).

• Spices: ground cumin ( 1 teaspoon / 5ml ), chili powder ( 1 teaspoon / 5ml ), dried oregano ( ½ teaspoon / 2.

  5ml ), salt ( ½ teaspoon / 2.5ml ), black pepper ( ¼ teaspoon / 1.25ml ).

• Chicken Broth: 1 cup (240ml) (for filling) and 3 – 3 ½ cups (720-840ml) warm (for masa).

• Masa Harina: 4 cups (450g) (instant corn flour for tamales). Quality Tip: This is a MUST! Don't even think about using regular cornflour.

• Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon (5ml) .

• Shortening: 1 cup (227g) , softened (or lard, if you’re feeling traditional).

Seasoning Notes: Flavor Bombs Away!

Honestly, the seasoning is where the magic happens. If you're looking for great chicken recipes casserole , then be sure to use the right flavors!.

• Essential Spice Combo: Cumin + chili powder = instant Mexican flavour.

• Flavor Enhancers: Chipotle peppers in adobo add a smokey kick. Adjust to your heat preference. Remember the best chicken tamale recipe is based on your own taste!

• Substitution Options: No chipotles? Use smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne. But , it won't be quite the same. I've tried.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple!

Right, let's talk kit. you don’t need to buy a load of fancy gadgets to create the perfect steamed chicken tamales .

Just the basics will do! and you might be interested in chicken tamale pie with masa or tamale casserole , a good casserole dish will be needed.

You will find this in a collection of easy casserole recipes .

• Steamer Pot: Essential for, well, steaming.

• Steamer Basket: To keep the tamales above the water.

• Large Mixing Bowl: For the masa.

• Mixer: Stand or hand mixer – makes the masa easier, but not essential.

• Large Skillet/Dutch Oven: For the chicken filling.

Basically, if you've got a pot big enough to steam in and a way to shred chicken, you're golden. Now, on to the fun part...actually making the chicken tamale recipe !

Right then, let's talk chicken tamales ! i swear, once you nail this recipe, you’ll feel like a proper culinary whiz.

Seriously, forget ready-meals! we're talking flavour fireworks here. i am aiming for a version that’s flavorful, relatively straightforward, and feels like a proper treat.

Prep Like a Pro for Tamale Time

First, mise en place . sounds fancy, right? just means getting everything sorted before you start. chop your 1 medium onion , mince your 2 cloves of garlic , and measure out your spices.

Oh my gosh, don't forget to soak those corn husks ! 1 package needs at least 1 hour in hot water.

Seriously, they need to be floppy, not crispy. set a timer, yeah?

Safety reminder: Watch the hob! Hot oil and water don't mess about.

Making the Magic: Step-by-Step

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan. Brown your 2 pounds of chicken thighs like you mean it. Get a good colour on them.

2. Chuck in the onion and garlic and soften them up.

3. Stir in your 1 can diced tomatoes , 1 can chipotle peppers (use 1-2 for medium heat), spices ( 1 teaspoon cumin , 1 teaspoon chili powder , ½ teaspoon oregano , ½ teaspoon salt , ¼ teaspoon black pepper ), and 1 cup chicken broth.

   Honestly, the smell alone is amazing.

4. Simmer it all covered for 20- 25 minutes . The chicken should fall apart. Shred it with two forks like you're attacking a roast.

5. Back in the pan with the shredded chicken for another 10 minutes . Now it’s time to focus on the masa.

6. Whisk 4 cups masa harina , 1 teaspoon baking powder , and 1 teaspoon salt in a bowl.

7. Beat 1 cup softened vegetable shortening (or lard if you're feeling fancy) until fluffy. then gradually add the masa mixture, alternating with 3 – 3 ½ cups warm chicken broth, until you get a soft, slightly wet dough.

   Like a thick frosting.

8. Spread the masa, add the chicken and steam them for 1 hour 30 minutes !

Pro Tips for Tamale Greatness

• Don't skimp on the fat in the masa! It's what makes them light and fluffy. Masa consistency is key .
• Make-ahead option: The chicken filling can be made a day ahead. This makes it easy Easy Casserole Recipes .
• If you are looking for a quick option, you might find Tamale Casserole or even Chicken Tamale Pie With Masa more suitable
• Steamed chicken tamales must be thoroughly cooked or the masa will be gummy.

Honestly, the first time i made these, the masa was like cement. i went too heavy on the flour! live and learn.

Now, my homemade chicken tamales are spot on every time. the best chicken tamale recipe are the one made with love! if you want an authentic chicken tamale recipe , just follow this recipe

Enjoy your Shredded chicken tamale recipe !

Recipe Notes: Cracking the Chicken Tamale Code

Alright, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of this chicken tamale recipe . honestly, there's a fair bit to cover, but don't panic.

It's all manageable. we’ll make sure you avoid common pitfalls. i want to share a few tips. i learned these the hard way during my own adventures in the kitchen.

Serving It Up Right: Plating and Presentation

Think rustic charm, yeah? forget fancy plating. these homemade chicken tamales are meant to be shared. pop a few on a plate.

Dollop of sour cream and salsa verde on the side. simple.

Chicken Tamale Pie with Masa ? Now that is next-level comfort. Serve in a deep dish. Browned top. Divine! Rice and beans make perfect companions. A refreshing margarita completes the Mexican fiesta.

Storage Sorted: Keeping Your Tamales Fresh

Leftover chicken tamales are a gift. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep them in an airtight container.

Fancy freezing? wrap each steamed chicken tamale individually. use cling film then foil. they'll last for up to 2 months.

When reheating, steam them again. steaming keeps the moisture in. microwave works. but it tends to make the masa a bit rubbery.

Tweaking the Tamale: Variations on a Theme

Want something a bit different? Go veggie. Roasted sweetcorn and poblano peppers work wonders.

For a low-carb version. try a tamale casserole . replace the masa with cauliflower rice. a great way to use easy casserole recipes .

This chicken recipes casserole is a game-changer. it's also a tasty alternative.

Nutrition Nuggets: Fueling Your Body

Each chicken tamale packs a punch. Around 350-450 calories. Plenty of protein to keep you going.

Now, i'm not a dietician, right? but these are a good source of fibre. the fibre comes from the masa and filling.

Remember it’s an estimate. make adjustments to portion sizes. make sure to check nutritional information based on your ingredients and methods.

This authentic chicken tamale recipe might seem daunting. but it is truly rewarding. so give it a go! you might end up creating the best chicken tamale recipe ever!.

Or maybe a tasty shredded chicken tamale recipe

You know? Even if they aren’t perfect. They'll still taste fantastic! Good luck, you got this!