Street Corn Chicken Chili

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, then you’ve come to the right place! Street Corn Chicken Chili is one of those dishes that embodies the best of both worlds—it’s like a comforting white chicken chili meets the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn. Imagine a bowl brimming with tender chicken, sweet corn, and zesty spices that will make your taste buds dance. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something easy yet impressive.

What makes this chili extra special is how it combines familiar tastes with a fun twist. It’s not just another bowl of chili; it’s a celebration of flavors that everyone will love. Plus, it’s made in just one pot, which means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this dish comes together fast, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
• Family Favorite: The combination of creamy textures and bold flavors ensures that everyone at the table will be asking for seconds!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare this chili in advance and let the flavors develop overnight—just reheat when you’re ready to serve.
• Customizable Toppings: Serve it with an array of toppings so everyone can personalize their bowl, adding fun to every serving!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like chicken and corn, this recipe offers a delicious way to nourish your body.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delightful Street Corn Chicken Chili, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; they’re easy to find at your local grocery store! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Base

• 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 and pepper to taste
• 6 to 8 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Chili

• 2 pounds ground chicken
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon cumin

For Cooking

• 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

For Creaminess

• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup chopped cilantro
• 3 tablespoons lime juice

Optional Toppings

• More cilantro
• Crumbled cotija cheese
• Chili powder
• Lime wedges

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or plant-based ground meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Throw in some bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, add more jalapenos or even some diced serrano peppers!
• Creamy alternative: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.

How to Make Street Corn Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Set a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onion, jalapenos, corn kernels, kosher salt, and pepper. Cooking these ingredients together for about 7 to 9 minutes allows them to soften and release their flavors into the pot—this is where your chili begins to come alive!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Mixture

Next, stir in the minced garlic, ground chicken, chili powder, paprika, cumin, and additional kosher salt and pepper. Continue cooking for another 7 to 9 minutes while breaking apart the chicken with a spatula. This step ensures that every bite is packed with flavor as all those spices meld beautifully with the meat.

Step 3: Simmer Away

Now it’s time to add in your chicken broth along with any beef broth if you’re using it, plus the chicken base. Bring everything to a boil before lowering the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer gently for about 25 to 30 minutes. This simmering period allows all those amazing flavors to deepen—and trust me; your kitchen will smell incredible!

Step 4: Final Touches

After simmering, stir in hot sauce, sour cream, cilantro, and lime juice. Cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through. Before serving, taste your creation! Adjust seasoning as needed by adding more chili powder or salt if desired.

Serve up this delicious Street Corn Chicken Chili hot in bowls topped with fresh cilantro, crumbled cheese if you’d like it creamy, or even extra lime wedges! Enjoy every savory spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Street Corn Chicken Chili

Making the perfect Street Corn Chicken Chili is all about the little details, so here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time!

• Use fresh corn: Fresh corn adds a sweet crunch that frozen or canned corn simply can’t replicate. If it’s in season, try to get your hands on some local corn for the best flavor.
• Adjust the heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with fewer jalapenos and gradually add more hot sauce to find your perfect balance. It’s easier to add heat than to take it away!
• Let it simmer: Allowing your chili to simmer for a longer period enhances the flavors as they meld together beautifully. A low and slow approach can transform good chili into great chili!
• Experiment with toppings: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Adding toppings like avocado, diced red onion, or even tortilla chips can give an exciting twist to each bowl.
• Make it ahead of time: This chili tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let the flavors develop overnight for a fantastic meal that’s ready when you are.

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Chili

Serving your Street Corn Chicken Chili can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this hearty dish that will impress everyone at your table.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness and elevates the vibrant flavors of the chili.
• Lime wedges: Offering lime wedges not only brings a zesty kick but also allows everyone to customize their bowl according to their taste.
• Crumbled cotija cheese: This crumbly cheese adds a creamy texture and salty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of corn.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: A warm slice of cornbread complements the chili wonderfully with its slightly sweet flavor and soft texture. Perfect for soaking up all those delicious juices!
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips make an excellent side for dipping and can be topped with guacamole or salsa for extra flavor.
• Mexican Rice: Fluffy Mexican rice seasoned with spices provides a great contrast, balancing out the richness of the chili.
• Simple Green Salad: A light green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing crunch that helps cut through the richness of the chili.

Your Street Corn Chicken Chili is sure to be a hit, whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or bringing it along to share with friends. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Street Corn Chicken Chili is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time, making weeknight dinners effortless and delicious. Here’s how to store your leftovers, freeze portions, and reheat them for the best taste.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Place cooled chili in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! You can substitute ground chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken or diced chicken breast. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is properly cooked.

What makes this Street Corn Chicken Chili different from regular chicken chili?

This chili incorporates the flavors of Mexican street corn, adding a unique sweetness from the corn and a depth of flavor with spices like cumin and paprika. It’s a delightful fusion of tastes!

Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?

Yes! You can replace ground chicken with a plant-based meat substitute or even extra beans like black beans or chickpeas for added protein. Adjust seasonings as needed!

How spicy is this Street Corn Chicken Chili?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. Use fewer jalapeños or omit them entirely if you prefer a milder chili. Adding more hot sauce at the end allows you to customize it to your liking!

Can I add other vegetables to this Street Corn Chicken Chili?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or even diced tomatoes for additional flavor and texture. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this wonderful Street Corn Chicken Chili as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings together vibrant flavors and comforting textures. Whether you’re sharing it with friends and family or savoring it solo, this dish is sure to please. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try it out!