Authentic Chicken Tamales in 3.5 Hours

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Chicken tamales have become my absolute go-to for comfort food, and I’m so excited to share my favorite way to make them with you! I remember the first time I tried homemade chicken tamales at a friend’s house; the aroma alone was incredible, filling the kitchen with warmth and the promise of something delicious. The masa was so tender, and the shredded chicken tamales filling was bursting with flavor. It felt like a culinary hug! This recipe is my adaptation, focusing on creating that same incredible taste and texture without too much fuss. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tamales Recipe

You’re going to adore making these chicken tamales! They’re truly a labor of love, but so worth it.

Authentic Chicken Tamales: Experience the true taste of tradition with this recipe.
Incredibly Tender Filling: The slow-cooked chicken is fall-apart tender.
Savory Masa: The masa dough is light, fluffy, and packed with flavor.
Perfect for Sharing: They make a fantastic dish for potlucks or family dinners.
Authentic Chicken Tamales: You’ll master the art of making these beloved Mexican staples.
Customizable Heat: Easily adjust the spice level to your preference.
Freezer Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy homemade chicken tamales anytime.

Ingredients for Authentic Chicken Tamales

Gathering your chicken tamales ingredients is the first exciting step! You’ll need these for a truly homemade experience.

1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs, cut into small pieces for even cooking
6 medium Tomatillos, husks removed and rinsed
1 medium Jalapeno Pepper, stem removed (adjust based on your heat preference)
1 medium Poblano Pepper, stem removed
1 small Serrano Pepper, stem removed (optional, for an extra kick)
1 medium Onion, finely chopped
1 clove Garlic, minced
1 tsp Kosher Salt, or to taste
1 tbsp Lime Juice, fresh from half a lime
2 cups Masa Harina, specifically for tamales, which is coarser than cornmeal
1 tbsp Baking Powder, to help the masa dough become light and fluffy
1/2 cup Canola Oil, or any neutral-flavored oil for the masa
1.5 cups Chicken Broth, preferably low-sodium, for moist masa
12 pieces Corn Husks, soaked in hot water until pliable

How to Make Chicken Tamales

Now for the fun part – transforming these ingredients into delicious homemade chicken tamales! Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll be enjoying the fruits of your labor in no time.

Step 1: Start by soaking your corn husks in hot water for at least an hour until they are soft and pliable. This makes them easier to work with.
Step 2: Preheat your broiler. Place the tomatillos, jalapeno, poblano, and serrano peppers on a baking sheet. Broil for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are lightly charred. Transfer them to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel for about 10 minutes to steam them. This makes peeling them easier.
Step 3: While the peppers steam, prepare the sauce. Peel the roasted tomatillos and peppers (discarding stems and seeds from the peppers). In a blender, combine the roasted vegetables with the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, kosher salt, and a tablespoon of lime juice. Add a splash of water if needed to help it blend. Blend until smooth.
Step 4: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and sauté until they are browned on all sides. Pour the prepared green chile sauce over the chicken and stir to coat. Simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. This is where the magic of savory chicken tamales truly begins.
Step 5: Prepare the masa dough. In a large bowl, whisk together the masa harina, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually mix in the canola oil and chicken broth, stirring until you have a smooth, spreadable consistency. It should be like a thick batter.
Step 6: Assemble your tamales. Take a soaked corn husk, spread about 1/4 cup of the masa dough evenly over the wider end, leaving a small border. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling onto the center of the masa. Fold one side of the husk over the filling, then fold the other side over, creating a neat package.
Step 7: Arrange the tamales upright in a steamer basket, seam-side up, ensuring they aren’t too crowded. Cover the tamales with damp paper towels or a clean kitchen towel, then place the lid on your steamer. Steam for 3.5 hours, checking the water level periodically to ensure it doesn’t dry out. The aroma filling your kitchen is a sure sign your chicken tamales cooking instructions are working perfectly.

Preparing the Chicken Filling

To get that amazing filling for your spicy chicken tamales recipe, first roast your tomatillos and peppers under the broiler until slightly charred. Then, blend them with onion, garlic, salt, and lime juice. Cook the chicken pieces in a skillet until browned, then simmer them in the blended sauce for a few minutes.

Making the Chicken Tamale Masa Dough

For the perfect masa, combine masa harina, baking powder, and salt. Mix in oil and enough chicken broth to create a smooth, spreadable dough. This is the heart of your chicken tamales dough recipe, ensuring a tender bite. For more baking inspiration, check out this delicious zucchini bread recipe.

Assembling and Wrapping the Tamales

Lay out your soaked corn husk chicken tamales. Spread a layer of masa onto each husk, add a spoonful of the savory chicken filling, and then fold the husk to enclose the filling. It’s a simple process that results in beautiful, steamed parcels.

Steaming Your Homemade Chicken Tamales

Arrange the assembled tamales upright in your steamer. Cover them with a damp cloth to keep the masa moist during cooking. Steaming for 3.5 hours is crucial for proper chicken tamales preparation and achieving that classic tender texture. Learn more about the importance of proper steaming techniques in this guide to traditional desserts.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Tamales

Elevate your homemade chicken tamales with these insider tips. Following these will ensure your tamales are a hit every time!

Don’t skip soaking the corn husks; they need to be fully pliable to prevent tearing during assembly.
Ensure your masa dough is the right consistency – it should be spreadable but not too wet.
Steam tamales upright so steam can circulate evenly, creating perfectly cooked masa.
Let the tamales rest for about 10-15 minutes after steaming before unwrapping; this helps them firm up.

What’s the secret to perfect chicken tamales?

The key to perfect chicken tamales lies in achieving a moist and tender masa. My favorite technique, featured in the best chicken tamales recipe, involves using good quality masa harina and ensuring your masa dough has the right ratio of liquid to flour for a fluffy consistency.

Can I make chicken tamales ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and the masa dough a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble the tamales just before steaming for the freshest results. This makes your homemade chicken tamales even easier to manage.

How do I avoid common mistakes with chicken tamales?

A common pitfall is under-steaming, which results in raw masa. Make sure to steam for the full duration. Overfilling can also be an issue, making them hard to seal. For easy chicken tamales, keep the masa and filling portions manageable. Also, ensure your corn husks are well-soaked. For more tips on mastering cooking techniques, explore this Greek chili chicken recipe.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Tamales

Once your delicious chicken tamales are steamed to perfection, it’s time to enjoy them! I love serving these savory delights with a dollop of cool Mexican crema or a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese. For a bit of a kick, a side of vibrant chicken tamales with salsa verde is absolutely divine, cutting through the richness of the masa and chicken beautifully. You can also serve them with a simple side of refried beans and Mexican rice for a complete, satisfying meal that always impresses.

Nutrition Facts for Chicken Tamales

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional value per serving for these delicious chicken tamales. It’s always good to know what you’re enjoying!

Calories: 250 kcal
Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 300 mg
Protein: 15 g
Cholesterol: 60 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Tamales

Once your delicious homemade chicken tamales are cooked, it’s important to store them properly to maintain their quality. First, let them cool completely at room temperature. I usually let mine sit for about an hour. Once cooled, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep wonderfully in the freezer for up to 3 months, ready for whenever a craving strikes.

Reheating is super simple! You can gently warm them in the microwave, wrapped in a damp paper towel, for about 1-2 minutes until heated through. For the best texture, I prefer to steam them again for about 15-20 minutes or reheat them in a skillet over low heat with a little bit of oil. This brings back that perfect, tender masa and juicy filling.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Tamales

What are chicken tamales?

Chicken tamales are a beloved Mexican dish made from a masa dough (usually corn-based) that’s filled with seasoned shredded chicken and then steamed inside corn husks. They’re a staple at celebrations and family gatherings, offering a comforting and flavorful experience. For more information on traditional Mexican cuisine, you might find resources on Mexican cuisine helpful.

Why are chicken tamales popular?

Their popularity stems from their incredible flavor, tender texture, and the communal aspect of making them. They’re seen as a labor of love, often made in large batches for special occasions. Plus, the savory filling encased in soft masa is just universally delicious!

Can I use a different filling for my tamales?

Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on savory chicken tamales, you can easily swap the filling. Traditional options include pork or beef, and vegetarian versions with beans or cheese and jalapenos are also fantastic. Experimenting with different fillings is part of the fun of homemade chicken tamales! Consider trying a Thai red curry kabob for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when my chicken tamales are ready?

Your chicken tamales are ready when the masa has pulled away slightly from the husk and feels firm to the touch. You can also carefully unwrap one from the center to check its consistency. If the masa is still sticky or doughy, steam them for another 20-30 minutes.

Variations of Chicken Tamales You Can Try

While this recipe focuses on classic chicken tamales, there are so many fun ways to switch things up! Exploring these variations can lead to some truly unique and delicious dishes.

Spicy Chicken Tamales Recipe: For those who love a kick, amp up the heat in the filling by adding an extra serrano pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
Savory Chicken Tamales with Mole: Instead of the salsa verde, try using a rich mole sauce with your shredded chicken for a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
Vegetarian Tamales: Easily adapt this recipe by replacing the chicken with a hearty mixture of black beans, corn, diced poblano peppers, and cheese.
Tamales with Different Wrappers: While corn husks are traditional, you can also try banana leaves for a slightly different flavor and moisture retention.