Tamales Nicas De Pollo (nicaraguan-style Chicken Tamales)

Tamales Nicas de Pollo, or Nicaraguan-style Chicken Tamales, are a traditional dish in Nicaraguan cuisine. These delicious tamales are made with seasoned chicken and masa (corn dough), wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed to perfection.

Gluten Free Main Course Nicaraguan Nicaraguan Food Tamales Chicken Masa
Tamales Nicas De Pollo (nicaraguan-style Chicken Tamales)

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken thighs
  • 4 cups masa harina
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 12 banana leaves, cut into 12x12 inch squares

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, combine the chicken thighs, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add enough water to cover the chicken. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool. Shred the chicken and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the masa harina with the chicken broth and vegetable oil until well combined. The mixture should have the consistency of a thick batter.
  3. To assemble the tamales, lay a banana leaf square on a flat surface. Spread a thin layer of the masa mixture onto the center of the leaf, leaving a border around the edges. Place a spoonful of the shredded chicken in the center of the masa.
  4. Fold the sides of the banana leaf over the filling, then fold the top and bottom to completely enclose the filling. Secure the tamale with kitchen twine.
  5. Place the tamales in a large steamer pot and steam for 1 hour.
  6. Let the tamales cool for a few minutes before serving. Unwrap the banana leaves and enjoy!

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
2 hours
Total time:
2 hours
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
300 per serving
Protein
15g
Carbohydrates
30g
Fat
12g

Supplies

Large pot Steamer pot

Tools

Kitchen twine

Serving suggestions

Serve the tamales with a side of curtido (Nicaraguan cabbage slaw) and a hot cup of coffee.

Tips & tricks

Make sure to soak the banana leaves in warm water for 30 minutes before using to make them pliable and easier to work with.

Cost

$20