Imagine the warm aroma of corn masa and savory chicken wafting through your kitchen, welcoming everyone to the dinner table. Tamales are not just food; they are a celebration of tradition and family, bringing people together with every delicious bite. If you’re ready to explore some fantastic homemade chicken tamales recipes, you’re in for a real treat!
Classic Chicken Tamales


Chicken Tamales Recipe from The Spruce Eats
Rating: 4.3. Ingredients: 3 h 10 min Total Time: 3 h 10 min.

Tamales Rojos de Pollo (Red Chicken Tamales) from Allrecipes
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 4 h 35 min Total Time: 4 h 35 min.
This recipe embodies the heart and soul of traditional tamales. With tender chicken seasoned to perfection wrapped in a soft corn masa, these tamales are a staple at any gathering.
- 2 cups masa harina
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup green salsa
- Husked corn husks
What makes these tamales special is the combination of homemade chicken filling and fluffy masa. The green salsa adds a delightful zing that balances the richness of the chicken. These tamales are perfect for festive occasions or cozy family dinners, making them a beloved choice for many.
Plus, they are fun to make with friends or family! Getting everyone involved in filling and wrapping the tamales creates a joyful atmosphere, turning cooking into a memorable experience.
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Spicy Chipotle Chicken Tamales


Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Tamale Chili from Half Baked Harvest
Rating: 4.3. Ingredients: 6 ч 15 мин
If you love a bit of heat, these spicy chipotle chicken tamales are just what you need! The smoky flavor of chipotle peppers transforms the filling into a mouthwatering delight.
- 2 cups masa harina
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup lard or vegetable shortening
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- Husked corn husks
The addition of chipotle peppers gives these tamales a smoky depth that’s simply irresistible. They are perfect for spicy food lovers and can easily impress your friends at your next gathering. The rich, flavorful filling pairs perfectly with a side of creamy avocado or fresh salsa.
Making these tamales is like a little adventure in your kitchen. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chipotle peppers, making them as mild or fiery as you like. It’s a great way to customize your dish to suit your tastes!
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Cheesy Chicken Tamales

Who doesn’t love cheese? These cheesy chicken tamales are a delicious twist on the classic, featuring gooey cheese that melts beautifully inside every bite!
- 2 cups masa harina
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheese (like Monterey Jack or cheddar)
- Husked corn husks
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, especially for cheese lovers! The melted cheese adds a creamy texture that beautifully complements the seasoned chicken. They are perfect for a cozy family gathering or a casual get-together with friends.
What makes these tamales extra special is the surprise of cheese oozing out when you take that first bite. Serve them with a side of salsa or guacamole, and you’ll have a dish that everyone will rave about!
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Honey Garlic Chicken Tamales

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken from Smells Like Home
Rating: 4.4. Ingredients: Soy sauce, skinless chicken breasts, sesame seeds, red pepper flakes, ketchup Total Time: 45 min.

Tamales de Pollo con Salsa Verde (Tamales with Chicken and Green Salsa) from Serious Eats
Ingredients: Chicken thighs, carrot, garlic, bay leaf, black pepper Total Time: 5 hr 10 min.

Green Chile Chicken Tamales chicken simmered in fire-roasted hatch green chiles, wrapped in white corn masa from Home Chef
Ingredients: Green chile chicken Total Time: 10 min.
These sweet and savory honey garlic chicken tamales are a unique take on the traditional recipe. The blend of honey and garlic creates a flavor explosion that you won’t soon forget!
- 2 cups masa harina
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Husked corn husks
The sweetness of the honey combined with the savory garlic elevates the chicken filling to new heights. These tamales are perfect for those wanting to try something different and can easily become a favorite at your dinner table. They pair wonderfully with a fresh side salad or even some sweet corn on the cob.
Making these tamales is a fun way to experiment in the kitchen. You can even add some chopped green onions or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor. Plus, they are sure to impress anyone who tries them!
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Cilantro Lime Chicken Tamales

Chicken Tamales with Tomatillo-Cilantro Salsa from Food & Wine
Rating: 3. Ingredients: 6 h 30 min Total Time: 6 h 30 min.

Chicken and Poblano Tamales with Cilantro Crema from goodNes.com
Ingredients: 2 min Total Time: 2 min.

Tamales de Pollo con Salsa Verde (Tamales with Chicken and Green Salsa) from Serious Eats
Ingredients: 5 h 10 min Total Time: 5 h 10 min.
Bright, fresh, and full of flavor, these cilantro lime chicken tamales are perfect for warm weather gatherings. The zesty lime and fragrant cilantro give these tamales a refreshing twist!
- 2 cups masa harina
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup lard or vegetable shortening
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Husked corn husks
The combination of lime juice and cilantro adds a burst of freshness that makes these tamales a standout. They are not only delicious but also light, making them perfect for a summer party or a picnic. Serve them with a tangy salsa or a dollop of sour cream for a delightful experience.
What’s fantastic about this recipe is how vibrant and colorful it looks on your plate. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel good about what you’re eating. Plus, everyone will want the recipe after they taste these zesty delights!