Traditional Mexican Chicken Tamales Recipe

Ingredients

3 cups Masa Harina
1 1/2 teaspoons Baking Powder
1 teaspoon Salt
2 2/3 cups Chicken Stock
1 cup Lard
2 pounds Chicken Thighs, boneless & skinless
1 Onion, chopped
3 cloves Garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Cumin
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
2 cups Red Chili Sauce
20-25 Corn Husks

Steps and instructions

Soak the corn husks in warm water until they become pliable, set them aside.
In a large bowl, mix together the Masa Harina, baking powder, and salt.
Heat the chicken stock until hot but not boiling and gradually mix it with the dry ingredients until well incorporated.
In another bowl, beat the lard until it becomes creamy, then combine it with the Masa mixture. Set aside.
Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and cumin. Place them in a pot along with the onion and garlic, then add water until covered. Cook over medium heat until chicken is cooked and tender.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool, then shred it into small pieces.
Mix the shredded chicken with the red chili sauce.
Spread about 2 tablespoons of the Masa mixture onto the center of a soaked corn husk. Top it with 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture.
Fold the sides of the corn husk inwards, then fold the bottom upwards. Tie with a piece of corn husk to secure it.
Repeat the process until all ingredients are used.
Place the tamales in a steamer and cook for about 90 minutes or until the dough separates easily from the husk.
Allow the tamales to cool before serving.

Tools for making

Large Bowl - Used for mixing the Masa Harina, baking powder, and salt.
Pot - Used for cooking the chicken thighs with onion and garlic.
Steamer - Used for steaming the tamales.
Mixing Spoon - Used for combining the chicken stock with the dry ingredients and mixing the Masa mixture with the lard.
Beater - Used for beating the lard until creamy.
Knife - Used for chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
Corn Husks - Used for wrapping the tamales.
String/Twine - Used for tying the tamales to secure them.

Recipe variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken thighs with a plant-based protein such as tofu or tempeh.
Beef Tamales: Replace the chicken with cooked and shredded beef.
Cheesy Tamales: Add grated cheese to the chicken mixture for an extra cheesy twist.
Green Chili Tamales: Use green chili sauce instead of red chili sauce for a different flavor profile.
Sweet Tamales: Add a tablespoon of sugar and some cinnamon to the masa mixture for a sweet variation.
Seafood Tamales: Replace the chicken with cooked shrimp or crab for a delicious seafood option.
Spicy Tamales: Add some chopped jalapenos or hot sauce to the chicken mixture for an extra kick of heat.
Gluten-Free Tamales: Substitute the Masa Harina with a gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Vegan Tamales: Replace the lard with vegetable shortening or coconut oil, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
Chipotle Tamales: Mix chipotle peppers in adobo sauce into the masa mixture for a smoky and spicy twist.

Recipe overview

Indulge in the authentic flavors of Mexico with our Chicken Tamales recipe. This traditional dish, often prepared for celebrations, involves tender shredded chicken enveloped in a soft, flavorful corn dough, all wrapped within a corn husk for an added layer of flavor and texture. The process is a labor of love, but every bite of these steamy, comforting tamales is worth the effort. This recipe will guide you, step-by-step, in creating this beloved classic right from your own kitchen. Expect to get your hands a bit messy and to fall in love with the rich, delicious taste of homemade tamales. Enjoy them fresh from the steamer, or as leftovers the next day - they're a delightful treat either way.

Common questions

Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken? Yes, you can use other types of meat such as pork or beef, but the cooking time may vary.
Can I substitute lard with a different fat? Yes, you can use vegetable shortening or butter as a substitute for lard, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the taste and texture of the tamales.
Can I use store-bought chili sauce? Yes, you can use store-bought red chili sauce, or you can make your own homemade sauce if preferred.
How do I know when the tamales are done? The tamales are done when the dough easily separates from the corn husk. You can test one by removing it from the steamer and checking the texture.
Can I freeze the tamales? Yes, you can freeze the tamales. Once they have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container or freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, steam them until heated through.
How long do the corn husks need to soak? The corn husks should be soaked in warm water for about 30 minutes or until they become pliable.

Serving dishes and utensils

Steamer - Used to cook the tamales by steaming them.
Large Pot - Used to cook the chicken thighs and prepare the red chili sauce.
Mixing Bowls - Used to mix ingredients together.
Whisk - Used to combine the chicken stock with the dry ingredients.
Tongs - Used to handle the soaked corn husks and assemble the tamales.
Kitchen String - Used to tie the tamales and secure the folded corn husks.
Serving Platter - Used to present and serve the finished tamales.

Origin stories

Tamales, a beloved and ancient food, have intriguing origins dating back to as early as 8000 to 5000 BC. They were a portable yet sustainable food source for Aztec, Maya, and Inca warriors. Given their long shelf-life and the ability to carry them easily, tamales were often packed for long trips. What's more, their preparation was a communal event, known as a "tamalada," bringing families and neighbors together to share in the labor. Today, this tradition of gathering to make tamales continues in many cultures around the world. The variety of fillings and wraps have evolved over time, reflecting the local tastes and available ingredients from different regions. The chicken tamale, a popular version of this traditional dish, beautifully demonstrates how this centuries-old recipe has been adapted, maintaining its essence while accommodating the evolution of culinary preferences.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.