Can I use a different cornbread mix instead of Jiffy?

Yes. Any standard 8.5-ounce packaged cornbread mix works perfectly in this recipe. Just use two boxes totaling about 17 ounces of dry mix.

Why did my cornbread base turn out soggy?

The most common reason is pouring the filling over cornbread that is still too hot. Always let the cornbread cool for at least 5 to 10 minutes before adding the chicken layer. Poking holes in the base also helps the sauce absorb evenly rather than pooling in one spot.

Can I freeze this casserole before baking?

Absolutely, and that is actually the best method for freezing. Assemble the casserole without the cheese, wrap it tightly in two layers of plastic wrap and one layer of foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add the cheese, and bake as directed.

Chicken Tamale Casserole - The Easy Weeknight Bake Your Family Will Love

Name: Chicken Tamale Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 17 ounces cornbread mix (2 standard 8.5-ounce packages); 2 large eggs; 2/3 cup milk; 3 cups shredded cooked chicken; 14 ounces canned black beans (1 can, drained and rinsed); 1 1/2 cups corn kernels (thawed if frozen); 4 ounces diced green chiles (1 can); 20 ounces red enchilada sauce (divided); 1 to 2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese

Chicken Tamale Casserole

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This chicken tamale casserole has all the flavor of traditional tamales in an easy 40-minute weeknight bake. A golden Jiffy cornbread base is loaded with shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and enchilada sauce, then topped with melted cheddar cheese.

Author: Sarah Mae Carter
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Bake
Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Ingredients

Scale

17 ounces cornbread mix (2 standard 8.5-ounce packages)
2 large eggs
2/3 cup milk
3 cups shredded cooked chicken
14 ounces canned black beans (1 can, drained and rinsed)
1 1/2 cups corn kernels (thawed if frozen)
4 ounces diced green chiles (1 can)
20 ounces red enchilada sauce (divided)
1 to 2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a bowl, whisk together the cornbread mix, eggs, and milk until just smooth. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until cooked through and golden on the edges. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean.
Let the cornbread cool for 5 to 10 minutes. Use the back of a wooden spoon to poke small holes across the surface.
In a separate bowl, combine shredded chicken, drained black beans, corn, diced green chiles, and half of the enchilada sauce. Stir to combine.
Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the cooled cornbread layer.
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the filling and spread to cover completely. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
Bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Broil for 1 to 2 minutes for extra golden color if desired.
Remove from oven, top with sour cream, cilantro, and jalapenos, and serve warm.

Notes

Do not overmix the cornbread batter. Stir just until combined to keep the base tender and fluffy.
Let the cornbread cool for 5 to 10 minutes before adding the filling to prevent a soggy base.
Use a rotisserie chicken for a fast, convenient shortcut.
Shred cheese from a block for the best melt. Pre-shredded bags do not melt as smoothly.
Make ahead by assembling without cheese and refrigerating for up to 24 hours. Add cheese just before baking.
To freeze before baking: assemble without cheese, wrap tightly in two layers of plastic wrap and one layer of foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole
Calories: 524 kcal
Sugar: 19 g
Sodium: 1574 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 62 g
Fiber: 9 g
Protein: 28 g
Cholesterol: 104 mg

Find it online: https://www.benefitiany.com/chicken-tamale-casserole/