Wrap yourself in the warm flavors of Mexico with our delicious Recipe For Green Chile Chicken Tamales. Tamales are a cherished traditional dish that brings families together through the joy of cooking and sharing. This recipe combines tender shredded chicken, savory green chiles, and aromatic masa dough wrapped in corn husks and steamed to perfection. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these tamales are sure to become a household favorite. Let’s get cooking!
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups masa harina
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
– 1 4-ounce can diced green chiles, drained
– 1/2 cup salsa verde
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 12-15 dried corn husks, soaked in warm water
**Instructions:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, chicken broth, vegetable shortening, baking powder, and salt. Mix well until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a little more chicken broth until you reach a smooth consistency.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced green chiles, salsa verde, and ground cumin. Mix well to incorporate the flavors.
3. Prepare your steamer by filling the bottom with water and placing a steam rack inside. Make sure the water does not touch the rack.
4. To assemble the tamales, take a soaked corn husk and spread a thin layer of the masa dough on the center, leaving space around the edges. Spoon some of the chicken filling in the center of the dough.
5. Fold one side of the corn husk over the filling, then fold the other side to enclose the filling completely. Fold up the narrow end of the corn husk to seal the tamale.
6. Repeat the process with the remaining corn husks and filling until all the tamales are assembled.
7. Carefully place the tamales upright in the steamer, making sure they are standing with the folded side down. Cover the tamales with any remaining soaked corn husks and a damp kitchen towel.
8. Steam the tamales over medium heat for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, checking occasionally to make sure the water hasn’t boiled off. The tamales are done when the masa is firm and easily pulls away from the husk.
9. Once cooked, remove the tamales from the steamer and let them cool slightly before serving. Unwrap and enjoy these delicious Green Chile Chicken Tamales with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or extra salsa verde.
10. These tamales can also be frozen for later enjoyment. Simply wrap them in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the freezer. To reheat, steam the frozen tamales for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
Enjoy the comforting flavors of Mexico with these homemade Green Chile Chicken Tamales. Whether you’re hosting a fiesta or simply craving a taste of authentic cuisine, this recipe will surely become a beloved classic in your home. Gather your loved ones and embark on a culinary journey with these delightful tamales!