Ingredients:
For the Cornbread Topping:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Chicken Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles, drained
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
For the Cornbread Topping:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted unsalted butter, and the egg.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Set aside.
For the Chicken Filling:
In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
Add the shredded chicken, corn kernels, diced tomatoes, diced green chiles, chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to heat through.
Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
To Assemble:
Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Spread the chicken filling evenly in the bottom of the baking dish.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken filling.
Carefully spread the cornbread topping over the cheese layer, making sure it covers the entire surface.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the Chicken Tamale Pie cool for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Serve your Chicken Tamale Pie hot, and enjoy this comforting and savory dish!
This Chicken Tamale Pie is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the flavors of tamales without all the work. It's a hearty and satisfying meal that's perfect for a family dinner or potluck gathering.