Street Corn Chicken Chili

If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty meal that brings everyone together, then this Street Corn Chicken Chili is just the ticket! It’s the kind of dish that warms your soul and fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Combining elements of a classic white chicken chili with the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn, it’s an easy one-pot wonder perfect for busy weeknights or delightful family gatherings. Trust me; once you make this chili, it will become a beloved staple in your home!

This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers plenty of room for creativity. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply want leftovers for lunch, you’ll love how versatile and delicious this Street Corn Chicken Chili is!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this dish comes together quickly.
• Family-Friendly: The blend of flavors makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it all week long—just reheat and serve!
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a deliciously comforting meal.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite garnishes to make each bowl uniquely yours.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy for this recipe—just wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious Street Corn Chicken Chili:

For the Chili

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion (diced)
• 3 to 4 jalapeno peppers (seeds removed and diced)
• 6 to 8 ears corn on the cob (kernels cut from cob)
• kosher salt, pepper
• 6 to 8 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 pounds ground chicken
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 3/4 cup your favorite beef broth (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chicken base (I used Better Than Bouillon)
• a few dashes hot sauce of choice
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup chopped cilantro
• 3 tablespoons lime juice

Optional Toppings

You can elevate your chili with these fun toppings:
* more cilantro
* crumbled cotija cheese
* chili powder
* lime wedges

Variations

One of the best things about Street Corn Chicken Chili is how flexible it is! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients or substitutions based on your preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken instead of ground chicken for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers, zucchini, or black beans to boost the nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicier: If you like heat, add more jalapeños or even some diced serrano peppers.
• Creamy alternative: For a dairy-free version, substitute sour cream with coconut yogurt.

How to Make Street Corn Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sauté Your Veggies

Set a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, jalapeños, corn kernels, kosher salt, and pepper. Cook for about 7 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally until everything softens. This step helps build a flavorful base that enhances the overall taste of your chili!

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Next, add in the minced garlic and ground chicken along with chili powder, paprika, cumin, more kosher salt, and pepper. Cook for another 7 to 9 minutes while stirring frequently. Break apart the chicken with a spatula as it cooks. This makes sure everything gets evenly seasoned and perfectly cooked!

Step 3: Simmer It All Together

Pour in the chicken broth along with beef broth if you’re using it and stir in the chicken base. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes so all those wonderful flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Finish Off with Creaminess

Stir in hot sauce, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Allow it to cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. This final touch adds creaminess and zest that takes your Street Corn Chicken Chili over the top!

Step 5: Serve It Up

Taste your chili after cooking—add more chili powder or salt if needed. Serve hot with optional toppings like more cilantro or lime wedges for extra flavor!

Enjoy every comforting spoonful of this delightful dish!

Pro Tips for Making Street Corn Chicken Chili

Making Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your dish is bursting with flavor and perfectly cooked!

• Prep your ingredients ahead of time: Having everything chopped and measured before you start cooking makes the process smoother and allows you to focus on flavor development while cooking.

• Adjust the heat level: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with fewer jalapenos or remove the seeds. You can always add more hot sauce later to customize the heat to your liking.

• Use fresh corn if possible: Freshly cut corn from the cob enhances the sweetness and texture of the chili. However, frozen corn is a great alternative if fresh isn’t available!

• Let it simmer longer for deeper flavor: While 25-30 minutes of simmering is recommended, letting it go longer (up to an hour) allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

• Taste as you go: Always taste your chili before serving. Adjust seasoning with more chili powder, salt, or lime juice to find that perfect balance that suits your palate!

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Chili

This Street Corn Chicken Chili not only tastes amazing but also looks vibrant when served! Here are some ideas on how to present this dish beautifully for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the chili nicely.
• Lime wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh lime juice directly onto their chili, enhancing its flavors.
• Crumbled cotija cheese: This creamy cheese adds a delightful salty touch that balances the sweetness of the corn and creaminess of the sour cream.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This classic pairing adds a sweet and crumbly texture that contrasts beautifully with the rich chili. Plus, it’s perfect for dipping!
• Avocado salad: A refreshing avocado salad with diced tomatoes, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro provides a cool contrast to the warm chili.
• Tortilla chips: Crispy tortilla chips are great for scooping up chili or enjoying as an appetizer alongside it.
• Mexican rice: Fluffy Mexican rice seasoned with tomatoes and spices complements the chili’s flavors while providing a hearty addition to your meal.

By incorporating these serving suggestions, your Street Corn Chicken Chili will not only be delicious but also visually appealing, making it a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every bowlful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Street Corn Chicken Chili is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time, ensuring you have a hearty meal ready when you need it. Here’s how to store and reheat this delightful dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the chili cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Street Corn Chicken Chili.

Can I use other types of chicken in Street Corn Chicken Chili?

Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken or diced chicken breasts instead of ground chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What makes Street Corn Chicken Chili unique?

Street Corn Chicken Chili combines the creamy flavors of Mexican street corn with traditional white chicken chili. The addition of fresh corn and spices creates a comforting one-pot meal that’s full of flavor!

How spicy is Street Corn Chicken Chili?

The level of spice can be adjusted based on your preference. If you like it mild, reduce the number of jalapeños or omit them entirely. For more heat, feel free to add extra hot sauce!

Can I make Street Corn Chicken Chili vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the ground chicken with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You’ll still enjoy all those wonderful flavors!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Street Corn Chicken Chili brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! It’s a fantastic option for cozy dinners or meal prepping for busy weeks ahead. Enjoy creating this delicious dish and share it with your loved ones; there’s truly nothing like gathering around a steaming pot of chili. Happy cooking!