Street Corn Chicken Chili

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that brings everyone to the table, look no further than this Street Corn Chicken Chili! This delightful recipe combines the creamy goodness of Mexican street corn with the hearty satisfaction of white chicken chili. It’s the kind of meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Trust me, every spoonful is packed with flavor and love!

This chili is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to make. You’ll soon find it becoming a favorite in your home, whether it’s a chilly evening or a sunny afternoon. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to whatever ingredients you have on hand!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the creamy texture and sweet corn, making it a hit for all ages.
• Make Ahead Convenience: This chili tastes even better the next day, so feel free to prepare it in advance!
• Flavor Packed: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients makes each bowl burst with flavor!
• Customizable Toppings: Personalize your chili with toppings like cilantro and lime for an extra zing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this amazing Street Corn Chicken Chili, you’ll only need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll gather for this one-pot wonder:

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, pepper

For the Chili

• 6 to 8 cloves garlic (minced)
• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on what you have or prefer. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken instead of ground chicken for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or black beans for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add more jalapenos or even some diced serrano peppers!
• Go vegan: Substitute ground chicken with lentils or chickpeas and use plant-based sour cream for a delicious vegan version.

How to Make Street Corn Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Set a large soup pot over medium heat and add olive oil. Once hot, toss in the diced onion, jalapenos, corn kernels, kosher salt, and pepper. Sauté them for about 7 to 9 minutes. Stirring occasionally allows those flavors to meld together beautifully!

Step 2: Add Aromatics and Chicken

Next, stir in minced garlic along with the ground chicken. Sprinkle in chili powder, paprika, cumin, and additional salt and pepper. Cook everything for another 7 to 9 minutes while breaking apart the chicken with a spatula. This step is crucial as it ensures even cooking and infuses the meat with all those wonderful spices.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Pour in both chicken broth and beef broth (if using). Add the chicken base as well! Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer gently for about 25 to 30 minutes. This simmering time allows all those rich flavors to develop fully.

Step 4: Final Touches

After simmering, stir in hot sauce, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Let it cook for another 5 to 10 minutes. Don’t forget to taste your chili! Adjust seasoning if needed—maybe another dash of chili powder or a pinch of salt? Serve warm topped with more cilantro or crumbled cotija cheese if desired.

Now that you have all these tips and tricks up your sleeve, I can’t wait for you to dive into this comforting bowl of Street Corn Chicken Chili! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Street Corn Chicken Chili

This flavorful chili is bound to impress, and with these simple tips, you’ll ensure it’s a hit every time you make it!

• Use fresh corn: Freshly cut corn from the cob gives this chili a sweet crunch that frozen or canned corn simply can’t replicate. If corn is in season, don’t hesitate to use it!
• Adjust the heat: Tailor the spice level by adding more or fewer jalapenos or hot sauce according to your preference. This allows everyone to enjoy the dish at their own comfort level.
• Let it simmer: Allowing the chili to simmer for a bit longer enhances the flavors as they meld together beautifully. This extra time can make a big difference in taste!
• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings. From fresh herbs to different cheeses, these additions can transform each bowl into a unique experience.
• Make it ahead of time: Chili often tastes even better the next day after all the flavors have had time to develop. Consider making a batch a day in advance for an easy meal prep option!

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Chili

Serving Street Corn Chicken Chili can be just as fun as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you’ll create an inviting presentation that makes your meal feel special.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: They add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color that brightens up each bowl.
• Crumbled cotija cheese: A sprinkle of this crumbly cheese adds creaminess and complements the spices perfectly.
• Extra lime wedges: These allow guests to squeeze fresh lime juice over their chili, enhancing its zesty profile.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Sweet and fluffy cornbread pairs wonderfully with chili, providing a comforting contrast in texture and flavor.
• Guacamole and tortilla chips: The creamy guacamole and crunchy chips offer a delightful side that balances out the heat from the chili.
• Mexican-style rice: This flavorful rice dish serves as a great base alongside your chili, soaking up all those delicious juices.
• Simple green salad: A light salad dressed with lime vinaigrette adds freshness and helps cut through the richness of the chili.

Enjoy your Street Corn Chicken Chili with these serving ideas for a delightful dining experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

Street Corn Chicken Chili is perfect for meal prep, making it a great option for busy weeks. You can easily store leftovers or even freeze portions for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• If you prefer, you can portion the chili into individual servings for easy access.

Freezing

• Let the chili cool down completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, label the containers with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, covering it loosely to allow steam to escape.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious dish!

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

Absolutely! While ground chicken is used in this recipe, you can substitute with shredded chicken or diced chicken breast if you prefer a different texture.

How do I make Street Corn Chicken Chili vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version of Street Corn Chicken Chili, replace the ground chicken with your favorite plant-based protein like lentils or black beans, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What toppings go well with Street Corn Chicken Chili?

Some delightful toppings include fresh cilantro, crumbled cheese alternatives (like vegan feta), avocado slices, and a sprinkle of chili powder or lime juice for extra flavor!

Can I adjust the spice level in Street Corn Chicken Chili?

Definitely! You can control the heat by adjusting the number of jalapenos or opting for milder peppers. Additionally, using less hot sauce will keep it on the milder side.

How long does Street Corn Chicken Chili last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Street Corn Chicken Chili will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Enjoy it throughout the week!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this hearty Street Corn Chicken Chili! It’s a beautiful blend of flavors that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with loved ones, it’s sure to be a hit. Happy cooking and don’t forget to savor every spoonful!