Chicken Tamales

Are you looking for a simple recipe that will allow you to take in the flavors of Mexico without leaving home?

Then you will love these easy chicken tamales, made with just 5 ingredients.

These tender corn husk packets filled with juicy, succulent chicken and loaded with flavor are sure to impress even your discerning Abuela.

So strap on your apron, raid your spice cabinet, and continue along as we take you step-by-step through all the tips, and tricks needed to make the most delicious, tender, and flavorful batch of authentic chicken tamales.

Recipe Video

Why This Recipe Works

There are a number of excellent reasons you will like this step-by-step chicken tamales recipe, but to begin with, you will be amazed at how easy these tasty morsels are to make. While the process may seem lengthy at first, it's really just assembling the tamales and letting your steamer pot do the rest. And all it takes is 5 ingredients!

Even considering there are so few ingredients, there is still quite a bit of flexibility within the framework allowing you to customize your tamales however you like. Choose a different protein or go meatless altogether. You can even opt to wrap your Mexican chicken tamales with banana leaves instead of corn husks.

Another great thing about this chicken tamale recipe is that you can make a big batch and freeze them for use at a later time. This makes for a great meal-prep recipe or even a go-to recipe for potlucks and big family dinners. Saving future you, time and energy when having to prepare for these types of events.

Ingredients

Shredded Chicken:

There are many ways you can get your shredded chicken for these homemade chicken tamales. You can use any leftover chicken that you might have, you can purchase a premade chicken from your local grocery store and shred that chicken to use in your tamales, or you can make some.

How to make Shredded Chicken?

Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for easier shredding. Place the chicken in a pot, cover it with water, and add aromatics like onion, garlic, and bay leaves for added flavor. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the chicken is fully cooked, about 15-20 minutes for breasts and 20-25 minutes for thighs. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks or your fingers. Season the shredded chicken with any desired spices for extra flavor, such as salt, pepper, cumin, or chili powder.

You can also make shredded chicken using the air fryer or the Instant Pot.

Corn Husks:

While this recipe uses corn husks to build your tamales, you can also use banana leaves. If you choose to use corn husks, ensure you soak them in warm water for at least 30 minutes before using them. This will make them pliable and easier to work with. Dry them off with a clean towel before assembling the tamales. Secure the tamale by tying it with a strip of soaked corn husk or kitchen twine.

Masa Harina:

Prepare the masa dough according to your recipe or package instructions. The consistency should be similar to a thick cake batter. If it's too thick, add a little more chicken broth or water to achieve the right texture.

Chicken Broth:

You can use your favorite brand of chicken broth to create your chicken tamales, or you can make some healthy and delicious chicken broth from scratch while preparing your shredded chicken. The water used to boil your chicken is actually chicken broth. Simply pass it through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to eliminate any tiny chicken or vegetable pieces and use it to create your masa dough.

Salt:

Salt enhances the overall flavor of the masa dough, bringing out the natural sweetness of the corn. Additionally, it acts as a natural preservative, helping to extend the shelf life of your masa dough

How to Make Chicken Tamales

Step One: 

Submerge your corn husks in hot water to soak.

Step Two: 

In a bowl, add masa harina, chicken broth, and salt. Stir to combine until a thick paste is formed.

Step Three: 

To build your tamales, start by smearing some of your paste onto the middle of the corn husk. Place some shredded chicken on top of the paste.

Step Four:

Fold the sides of the corn husk in, then fold the bottom end up, leaving the top end open.

Step Five: 

Add some water to your tamale steamer and place your tamales inside, open end up.

Step Six: 

Cover with a lid and steam for 2 hours.

Step Seven: 

Remove the corn husks, serve, and enjoy!

Tips

• Check for doneness by pulling the corn husk away from the tamale. If the masa dough pulls away from the husk easily, then your corn husk-wrapped chicken tamales are done and ready to be devoured.
• Allow your tamales to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps them set and makes them easier to unwrap.

What to Serve With Chicken Tamales

Chicken tamales pair wonderfully with a variety of traditional Mexican accompaniments, which enhance your dining experience with vibrant flavors and textures. Serve your chicken tamales alongside a generous dollop of fresh salsa or pico de gallo. A side of creamy guacamole adds richness and indulgence, while a crisp, refreshing taco salad offers a light and crunchy complement.

For a heartier meal, consider serving Mexican rice and refried beans as classic side dishes, their earthy warmth and comforting texture harmonizing beautifully with your tender and flavorful homemade tamales.

Need more ideas? Check out What to Serve With Tamales for 15 delicious side dishes.

FAQs

Are these gluten-free chicken tamales?

Yes, these are gluten-free chicken tamales. Masa harina is typically gluten-free as it is made from finely ground corn. However, it's essential to check the packaging to ensure it hasn't been processed in facilities that also handle wheat or gluten-containing grains, as cross-contamination can occur. Always look for certified gluten-free masa harina if you have gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

What changes can I make to this chicken tamales recipe to make vegetarian or vegan tamales?

These authentic chicken tamales are very easily adapted to suit a vegetarian or vegan diet. Simply swap the shredded chicken for fillings such as black beans, corn, sweet potato, spinach, roasted peppers, mushrooms, potatoes, huitlacoche, or spicy tofu. Additionally, the chicken broth can also be replaced with vegetable broth to create vegetarian tamales.

How long can leftover chicken tamales be stored?

You can store leftover chicken tamales in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap each tamale individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be reheated from frozen or thawed overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

More Mexican Food Recipes

If you love the flavors of Mexico, no need to hop on an expensive flight. You can make all of the delicious dishes right in the comfort of your own kitchen. Just check out this list of more Mexican food recipes to inspire your next fiesta.

Chicken Enchiladas

Birria Quesadillas

Taco Casserole

Lazy Enchiladas

Carne Asada Burrito