Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

We’re excited to share this Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe, a delightful dish that combines the creamy and spicy flavors of traditional White Chicken Chili with the vibrant zest of Mexican street corn. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or a cozy weeknight dinner, this chili is sure to impress everyone at the table. With its rich texture and bold flavors, it’s a warming meal that offers something unique in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: This chili brings together the warmth of spices and the sweetness of corn, creating a deliciously harmonious dish.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions, you can whip up this hearty meal in about an hour.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it as a starter. This chili pairs well with tortilla chips or rice.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this recipe serves eight, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends.
• Comforting & Satisfying: Packed with protein from chicken and delicious toppings, this dish is both filling and comforting.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient. Here’s what you’ll need to make your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: This allows you to cook everything in one pot, which simplifies cleanup and enhances flavor.
• Tongs: Perfect for easily handling hot chicken without burning your fingers when removing it from the pot.

Ingredients

To create this flavorful Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 large sweet onion, (peeled and chopped)
• 4-5 cloves garlic, (minced)
• 1 large jalapeno, (seeded and chopped)
• 1/3 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4-1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast
• 7 ounces chopped green chiles, (mild or medium)
• 4 cups fresh corn, cut off the cob (about 4-5 cobs)
• 2 cups sour cream
• 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Possible garnishes: More cilantro or shredded cheese, avocado slices, lime wedges, or tortilla chips

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Set a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the olive oil and chopped onions. Sauté for about 2–3 minutes while stirring. Then add in the minced garlic, jalapeno, cilantro, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Continue sautéing for another 2–3 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth along with whole chicken breasts and chopped green chiles into the pot. Season with salt (about 1 teaspoon) and ground black pepper (1/4 teaspoon). Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 3: Prepare Corn

While the chicken cooks, cut corn off the cobs and set it aside for later use.

Step 4: Shred Chicken & Add Corn

Using tongs, carefully remove the cooked chicken from the pot. Stir in the freshly cut corn. Afterward, chop or shred the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces before returning them to the pot.

Step 5: Mix in Dairy & Thicken

Add sour cream and shredded cheese into the pot. Stir rapidly while sprinkling cornstarch over the top of your chili; quick stirring helps minimize clumps.

Step 6: Final Simmer & Serve

Allow your chili to simmer for an additional 3–5 minutes until thickened. Turn off heat before squeezing lime juice into the mix. Ladle into bowls and serve hot with your choice of garnishes like avocado slices or tortilla chips!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

Serving your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili can enhance the overall experience. This zesty chili pairs well with various toppings and sides that complement its flavors.

Toppings

• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
• Avocado Slices: Add creamy avocado slices to balance the heat and richness.
• Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for a bright, tangy kick.
• Shredded Cheese: Top with extra shredded pepper jack cheese for added creaminess.
• Tortilla Chips: Offer crunchy tortilla chips on the side for dipping or garnish.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Pair with warm cornbread for a hearty, comforting meal.
• Rice: Serve over or alongside fluffy rice to soak up the delicious chili broth.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

To make your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili truly exceptional, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs significantly improve flavor compared to canned or frozen options.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of jalapeno and cayenne pepper according to your heat preference.
• Thicken with Care: Stir in cornstarch gradually while mixing rapidly to avoid lumps in your chili.
• Marinate Chicken: For deeper flavor, marinate chicken in lime juice and spices before cooking.
• Let It Rest: Allow the chili to sit for a few minutes after cooking; flavors meld together beautifully during this time.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

Complement your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili with these delicious side dishes that enhance its vibrant flavors.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices makes a perfect base or side dish.
2. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adds richness and balances out the spiciness of the chili.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like zucchini and bell peppers bring a smoky element to your meal.
4. Crispy Tortillas: Serve crispy tortillas or tortilla chips for an enjoyable crunch alongside the chili.
5. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw can provide a cool contrast to the warmth of the chili.
6. Black Bean Salad: A simple black bean salad offers protein and fiber while complementing the dish’s flavors.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Fill sweet bell peppers with quinoa or rice as a nutritious side option.
8. Cheesy Quesadillas: Golden brown quesadillas filled with cheese are great for dipping into the chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the chicken: This can lead to dry meat. Make sure to cook the chicken just until it is no longer pink.
• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough salt or spices can dull the flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning as you go for a zesty finish.
• Using frozen corn: Fresh corn adds sweetness and texture. If possible, use fresh corn off the cob instead of frozen.
• Not thickening properly: If you don’t mix cornstarch well, clumps may form. Always stir rapidly when adding thickening agents to avoid lumps.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping garnishes takes away from the presentation and flavor. Add cilantro, avocado, or lime for extra flair!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat chili in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions readers often have about making this delicious Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

You can definitely substitute turkey or even beef if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted by using less jalapeno or cayenne pepper. You control the heat!

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, omit the chicken and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth. You could add beans for protein.

What can I serve with Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili?

This chili pairs well with tortilla chips, cornbread, or a simple green salad.

Can I add beans to this chili?

Yes! Adding black beans or pinto beans will enhance the texture and flavor of your chili.

How long does it take to prepare?

The total time is about 60 minutes including prep and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for busy weekdays. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste!