Experience a delightful bite of a traditional Mexican dish with a twist. This chicken, green chiles, and cheese tamale pie recipe is an excellent choice for your next family dinner or gathering. The incorporated green chiles add a touch of spice, while the cheese offers a comforting richness. The chicken gives it a hearty feel, making it a satisfying meal for everyone.
Some ingredients in this recipe might not be readily available in your pantry, depending on your regular cooking habits. Masa Harina, a type of corn flour, is a staple in many Mexican cuisines and is crucial for the tamale pie's base. It's usually found in the international aisle of most supermarkets. Green chiles and Monterey Jack cheese might also be located in the same section. If you can't find fresh chiles, canned ones work just as well.
Ingredients for Chicken, Green Chiles, and Cheese Tamale Pie
Masa harina: This is a traditional Mexican flour made from corn that has been soaked in an alkali solution. It's typically used to make tortillas and tamales.
Butter: Adds a rich creaminess to the dough. Unsalted version is used to control the sodium level.
Vegetable shortening: Helps in incorporating air into the dough, making it light and fluffy.
Scallions: Also known as green onions, they add a mild, fresh onion flavour.
Green chiles: Brings a mild heat to the dish, adding depth to the flavor.
Corn kernels: Adds a sweet, crunchy element to the dish.
Cilantro leaves: Provides a refreshing and citrusy note.
Monterey Jack cheese: This is a mild American white, semi-hard cheese made using cow's milk.
Chicken: Shredded chicken is used, adding protein to the dish.
Green salsa: Also known as Salsa verde, it's a spicy Mexican sauce made from green tomatoes and chilies.
One reader, Erny Treadway says:
This chicken, green chiles, and cheese tamale pie recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the texture is divine. It's a hit with my family every time I make it. The combination of ingredients creates a mouthwatering dish that's both comforting and delicious. Highly recommended!
Techniques Required for Making Chicken, Green Chiles, and Cheese Tamale Pie
How to prepare the masa dough: Combine masa harina and hot water in a bowl, then beat butter, shortening, salt, and baking powder in a stand mixer. Add the reconstituted masa harina in three additions, beating after each addition until incorporated. Refrigerate the dough while preparing the filling.
How to prepare the filling: Cook scallions and chiles in oil until softened. Fold the reserved chile-scallion mixture, corn, and cilantro into the refrigerated dough.
How to assemble the tamale pie: Press half of the dough into the bottom and up the sides of a skillet. Layer with cheese, shredded chicken, remaining chile-scallion mixture, cilantro, and more cheese. Dollop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the top and smooth slightly.
How to bake the tamale pie: Bake the assembled pie in the preheated oven at 375°F for 45 minutes, then broil for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until browned in spots.
How to serve the tamale pie: Let the pie rest for about 10 minutes, then slice into wedges and serve with green salsa if desired.
How To Make Tamale Pie with Chicken, Green Chiles, and Cheese
Two layers of tamale dough envelope a filling of shredded chicken, cheese, corn, scallions, and chilis for this Latin American inspired tamale pie.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3cupsmasa harina
- 2¾cupshot water
- 4tbspunsalted butter,at room temperature, cut into thick slices
- 1cupvegetable shortening,cold
- 1½tspsalt
- 2tspbaking powder
- 1tbspolive oil
- 1bunchscallions,thinly sliced
- 8ozgreen chiles,(2 cans mild or hot), chopped
- vegetable oil spray,for the skillet
- 1cupcorn kernels,(fresh or frozen)
- ½cupcilantro leaves,sliced
- 2cupsmonterey jack cheese,grated
- 2cupschicken,cooked, shredded
- 1cupgreen salsa,(homemade or store-bought), for serving
Instructions
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In a bowl, mix the masa harina and hot water together to combine them.
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In the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment on medium-high speed, beat the butter, shortening, salt, and baking powder for 1 to 2 minutes, or until light and fluffy.
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Reduce the speed to low and add the reconstituted masa harina in three additions, beating after each addition until it is incorporated.
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Once all the masa has been added, continue to beat on medium-high speed for another minute. Leave the dough in the bowl and refrigerate it while preparing the filling.
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Set a shelf in the middle of the oven and preheat it to 375 degrees F.
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In a small skillet set over medium heat, add the oil. When the oil shimmers, add the scallions and cook, stirring for 2 to 3 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the chiles. Set aside ½ cup for the topping.
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Remove the dough from the refrigerator and beat it for another minute. It should look like thick cake batter and spread easily. If it seems dry, gradually beat in a little more water, one tablespoon at a time.
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Remove the mixer from the stand, and with a silicone spatula, fold in the reserved chile-scallion mixture, the corn, and ¼ cup of the cilantro.
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Spray a 10-inch skillet with vegetable oil spray. Wet hands with cool water to keep the dough from sticking to them, and press half the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the skillet.
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Spread 1 cup of the grated cheese over the bottom of the pie. Top with all of the shredded chicken. Spread the remaining chile-scallion mixture over the chicken.
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Top with the remaining ¼ cup cilantro. Spread the remaining 1 cup grated cheese on top.
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Dollop large spoonfuls of the remaining dough close together all over the pie. Use the back of the spoon or an offset spatula to smooth the dough slightly, leaving a few nooks and crannies to give the top some texture.
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Set the skillet in the oven and bake for 45 minutes. Set it under the broiler for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until it’s browned in a few places.
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Remove and let rest for about 10 minutes. Slice into wedges, and serve with green salsa, if desired.
Nutrition
- Calories: 978.45kcal
- Fat: 72.91g
- Saturated Fat: 24.86g
- Trans Fat: 4.90g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 29.34g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 14.22g
- Carbohydrates: 58.33g
- Fiber: 6.14g
- Sugar: 5.10g
- Protein: 27.00g
- Cholesterol: 94.51mg
- Sodium: 1010.09mg
- Calcium: 566.44mg
- Potassium: 651.41mg
- Iron: 6.82mg
- Vitamin A: 226.71µg
- Vitamin C: 97.13mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Your Tamale Pie
When preparing the masa harina dough, it's important to achieve the right consistency. It should resemble a thick cake batter and spread easily. If it seems too dry, gradually add more water, one tablespoon at a time. This will ensure your tamale pie has the perfect texture. Also, remember to wet your hands with cool water before pressing the dough into the skillet. This will prevent the dough from sticking to your hands and make it easier to shape.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Tamale Pie Recipe
Prepare the filling: Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking and shredding the chicken for the filling.
Use store-bought salsa: Instead of making green salsa from scratch, use a high-quality store-bought green salsa to save time and add flavor to the dish.
Pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded Monterey Jack cheese to save time on grating and preparation.
Make-ahead: Prepare the tamale pie filling and dough ahead of time and assemble the pie when ready to bake for a time-saving meal option.
Uniform shape: Use a round baking dish or skillet for a uniform shape, making it easier to assemble and bake the tamale pie.
Substitute Ingredients For Tamale Pie with Chicken, Green Chiles, and Cheese Recipe
Masa harina - Substitute with cornmeal: Cornmeal can be used as a substitute for masa harina in tamale pie. It has a similar texture and can provide a slightly different but still delicious flavor to the dish.
Vegetable shortening - Substitute with butter: Butter can be used as a substitute for vegetable shortening to add richness and flavor to the tamale pie crust.
Chicken - Substitute with pulled pork: Pulled pork can be used as a flavorful alternative to chicken in the tamale pie, adding a rich and savory taste to the dish.
Green chiles - Substitute with jalapeños: Jalapeños can be used as a substitute for green chiles to add a similar level of heat and a slightly different flavor to the tamale pie.
Monterey Jack cheese - Substitute with cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese can be used as a substitute for Monterey Jack cheese, providing a sharper flavor and a different melting quality to the tamale pie.
Green salsa - Substitute with tomatillo salsa: Tomatillo salsa can be used as a substitute for green salsa, offering a tangy and slightly different flavor to the tamale pie.
How to Beautifully Present Chicken, Green Chiles, and Cheese Tamale Pie
Elevate the tamale pie with a stunning presentation: As a chef, I would carefully mold the tamale pie into individual portions using a ring mold for a polished and refined look. This will create a visually appealing and elegant presentation that will impress the judges.
Garnish with fresh cilantro: Sprinkle the top of the tamale pie with vibrant, fresh cilantro leaves to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. The bright green cilantro will provide a beautiful contrast against the golden-brown crust, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the dish.
Incorporate a drizzle of green salsa: Using a squeeze bottle, delicately drizzle a vibrant green salsa in an artistic pattern on the plate. This not only adds a touch of acidity and heat but also introduces a visually striking element to the presentation, showcasing attention to detail and flavor balance.
Create a cheese lattice: After baking, carefully arrange thin strips of Monterey Jack cheese in a lattice pattern on top of the tamale pie. This intricate design will demonstrate precision and artistry, elevating the dish to a level worthy of a Michelin-starred dining experience.
Accentuate with microgreens: Sprinkle a handful of delicate microgreens over the tamale pie just before serving. The tiny, vibrant greens will add a touch of elegance and sophistication, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the dish.
Plate with precision: Using offset spatulas and tweezers, meticulously arrange the tamale pie and its accompaniments on the plate, ensuring each component is positioned thoughtfully and with purpose. Attention to detail in plating is key to creating a visually stunning dish.
Utilize edible flowers for a touch of luxury: Carefully place a few edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies, on the plate to introduce a touch of luxury and elegance. The vibrant colors and delicate petals will elevate the presentation, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Incorporate a dusting of chili powder: Before serving, lightly dust the plate with a fine sprinkle of chili powder to add a hint of warmth and a visually striking element. This subtle touch will showcase creativity and attention to detail in the presentation of the tamale pie.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Tamale Pie
- Stand mixer: A stand mixer is a kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients. It typically comes with various attachments for different tasks such as dough kneading, whisking, and mixing.
- Skillet: A skillet is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It is typically made of cast iron, stainless steel, or non-stick materials.
- Small skillet: A small skillet is similar to a regular skillet but is designed for cooking smaller portions or for tasks that require a smaller cooking surface.
- Silicone spatula: A silicone spatula is a flexible kitchen tool used for scraping, mixing, and spreading ingredients. It is heat-resistant and ideal for use with non-stick cookware.
- Vegetable oil spray: Vegetable oil spray is a convenient cooking spray used to grease pans and baking dishes to prevent food from sticking.
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, shredding, pureeing, and mixing ingredients. It consists of a motorized base and various attachments for different functions.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is a kitchen essential for combining ingredients, marinating, and mixing batters or dough. It comes in various sizes and materials such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic.
- Oven: An oven is a kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food. It provides consistent and controlled heat for cooking a wide range of dishes.
- Broiler: A broiler is a part of an oven used for cooking food with high, direct heat. It is commonly used to brown or crisp the top of dishes.
- Cooling rack: A cooling rack is a metal grid used to cool baked goods and allow air to circulate around them, preventing sogginess.
- Offset spatula: An offset spatula is a versatile kitchen tool with a thin, angled blade used for spreading, smoothing, and decorating cakes, as well as lifting delicate items.
How To Store and Freeze Leftover Tamale Pie
- Let the tamale pie cool completely before storing or freezing.
- To store in the refrigerator, cover the skillet tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the pie to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the tamale pie:
- Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container with a tight-fitting lid.
- Label the package with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
- To reheat the refrigerated tamale pie, place it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
- If reheating from frozen:
- Thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator.
- Remove the wrapping and place the pie in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Alternatively, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave:
- Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate.
- Heat on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
- Timing may vary depending on the strength of your microwave and the size of the slice.
How To Reheat Tamale Pie Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover tamale pie in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to crisp up the top.
For a quicker option, reheat individual slices in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. If the slice seems dry, sprinkle a little water on top before microwaving to help maintain moisture.
If you have a toaster oven, you can reheat individual slices in it. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C), place a slice on the toaster oven tray, and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy on top.
For a stovetop method, cut the leftover tamale pie into slices and heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan, and then place the slices in the skillet. Cover the pan and heat the slices for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
If the leftover tamale pie seems dry, you can add a little salsa, enchilada sauce, or chicken broth to the dish before reheating to help moisten it and prevent it from drying out further during the reheating process.
Random Fact About Chicken, Green Chiles, and Cheese Tamale Pie
Tamale pie is a popular dish in the southwestern United States and is a fusion of Mexican and American cuisine. It typically consists of a cornmeal crust filled with a savory mixture of meat, cheese, and vegetables.
Is Making Tamale Pie at Home Economical?
This chicken, green chiles, and cheese tamale pie recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as chicken, green chiles, and cheese, are commonly found and reasonably priced. The use of masa harina and vegetable shortening also adds to its affordability. With an approximate cost of $20, this hearty dish can feed a family of four, making it a budget-friendly option. As a culinary chef, I rate this recipe an 8 for its balance of cost and flavor, making it a practical and delicious choice for any home cook.
Is This Tamale Pie Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
The chicken, green chiles, and cheese tamale pie recipe is a delicious and comforting dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to several factors:
- The recipe uses a significant amount of butter and vegetable shortening, which are high in saturated fats.
- Monterey jack cheese is used in generous quantities, adding to the overall fat and calorie content.
- The masa harina, while a traditional ingredient in tamales, is made from corn that has been treated with lime, which may reduce the availability of some nutrients.
However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients, such as:
- Chicken, which is a lean protein source.
- Green chiles and scallions, which provide vitamins and minerals.
- Corn kernels, which offer dietary fiber and antioxidants.
- Cilantro, which is rich in vitamins and has anti-inflammatory properties.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace some or all of the butter and vegetable shortening with healthier alternatives like olive oil or avocado oil.
- Use a reduced-fat monterey jack cheese or substitute part of the cheese with a lower-fat option like cottage cheese or ricotta.
- Increase the proportion of vegetables in the recipe, such as adding more green chiles, scallions, or other colorful veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.
- Use a whole-grain masa harina or experiment with alternative flours like whole wheat or almond flour to boost the fiber content.
- Serve the tamale pie with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the meal and add more nutrients.
- Opt for a low-sodium or homemade green salsa to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish.
Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Tamale Pie Recipe
The combination of tender chicken, flavorful green chiles, and gooey cheese in this tamale pie recipe creates a delicious and comforting dish. The masa harina crust adds a wonderful texture and flavor to the pie, and the addition of corn and cilantro brings a fresh and vibrant element. The recipe's instructions are clear and easy to follow, resulting in a beautiful and satisfying meal. Overall, this chicken, green chiles, and cheese tamale pie is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that is sure to impress anyone who tries it.
Enhance Your Tamale Pie with Chicken, Green Chiles, and Cheese Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Tamale Pie with Chicken, Green Chiles, and Cheese Recipe:
This recipe for Chicken, green chiles, and cheese tamale pie is a delicious and comforting dish that combines traditional flavors with a modern twist. The use of masa harina ensures an authentic tamale texture, while the addition of Monterey Jack cheese and green salsa adds a rich and zesty flavor profile. The step-by-step instructions and use of fresh ingredients like scallions, cilantro leaves, and corn kernels guarantee a flavorful and satisfying meal. Trust in the combination of these classic ingredients to create a mouthwatering dish that will surely become a family favorite.
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