Street Corn Chicken Chili

Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the creaminess of Mexican street corn with the comforting essence of white chicken chili. This one-pot dish is perfect for gatherings, game days, or a cozy family dinner. With its vibrant colors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Plus, this recipe is easy to make and packed with delicious spices that create an unforgettable meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – This recipe comes together in one pot, simplifying cleanup and cooking time.
• Flavor Explosion – The blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a rich and satisfying taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Meal – Enjoy it as-is or top it with your favorite garnishes for extra flair.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a festive gathering, this chili fits right in.
• Healthy Option – Packed with protein from the chicken and nutrients from fresh veggies, it’s a wholesome choice for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking more enjoyable. Here are some essentials you’ll need to whip up this delicious Street Corn Chicken Chili.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot – Ideal for cooking everything in one place while allowing enough space for stirring.
• Cutting board – Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients efficiently.
• Sharp knife – Ensures quick and easy cutting, making prep time much faster.

Ingredients

Street Corn Chicken Chili is a mix between white chicken chili recipe and Mexican street corn, delicious flavors for a perfect one pot dish!

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 the Broth

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 3/4 cup your favorite beef broth (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chicken base (I used Better Than Bouillon)

For Final Touches

• a few dashes hot sauce of choice
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup chopped cilantro
• 3 tablespoons lime juice

Optional Toppings

• more cilantro
• crumbled cotija cheese
• chili powder
• lime wedges

How to Make Street Corn Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Set a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onion, jalapenos, corn kernels, kosher salt, and pepper. Cook for 7 to 9 minutes while stirring occasionally until softened.

Step 2: Cook Ground Chicken

Add the garlic, ground chicken, chili powder, paprika, cumin, additional kosher salt, and pepper. Cook for another 7 to 9 minutes. Stir frequently while breaking apart the chicken with a spatula until fully cooked.

Step 3: Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth, optional beef broth, and add the chicken base. Bring everything to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes. Stir in hot sauce, sour cream, cilantro, and lime juice. Cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your chili for seasoning. Add more chili powder, kosher salt, or pepper as needed. Serve hot with optional toppings like more cilantro, crumbled cotija cheese, chili powder, or lime wedges if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful Street Corn Chicken Chili!

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Chili

Serving Street Corn Chicken Chili is all about enhancing its rich flavors and making the dining experience enjoyable. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

Toppings

• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a fresh, herbal note.
• Crumbled Cotija Cheese: Add a sprinkle of cotija cheese for a creamy, salty flavor contrast.
• Chili Powder: Dust with chili powder for an extra kick.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges so guests can squeeze fresh juice onto their chili.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Pair with warm cornbread for a comforting side that complements the chili’s sweetness.
• Tortilla Chips: Offer crunchy tortilla chips alongside for dipping or scooping.
• Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado slices provide creaminess and balance the heat.

Garnishes

• Sour Cream Swirl: Add a swirl of sour cream on top for richness and tanginess.
• Chopped Green Onions: Garnish with green onions for added crunch and flavor.

How to Perfect Street Corn Chicken Chili

To make your Street Corn Chicken Chili even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Spices: Use fresh spices to enhance flavor; consider adjusting spice levels based on preference.
• Quality Broth: Choose high-quality chicken broth for richer taste; homemade broth is ideal if available.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh corn when possible; it adds sweetness and crunch compared to frozen options.
• Simmer Longer: Allowing the chili to simmer longer can deepen flavors; aim for 30-40 minutes if time permits.
• Taste As You Go: Always taste during cooking; adjust seasoning as needed to suit your palate.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Chicken Chili

Complement your Street Corn Chicken Chili with delicious side dishes that enhance the meal. Here’s a list of great options.

1. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adds richness and balances the chili’s heat.
2. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with herbs and spices pairs perfectly with chili.
3. Grilled Veggies: A mix of grilled peppers and zucchini adds flavor and nutrition to the meal.
4. Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa made with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds brightness.
5. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn on the cob topped with lime, cheese, and spices complements the dish beautifully.
6. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad made with black beans, corn, and lime is nutritious and colorful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience and the final taste of your Street Corn Chicken Chili. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping ingredient prep: Always prepare your ingredients before starting to cook. This helps in maintaining an organized cooking process and ensures that everything cooks evenly.

• Overcooking the chicken: Ground chicken should be cooked until it’s no longer pink but avoid overcooking it. This can lead to a dry texture; aim for 7 to 9 minutes as specified in the recipe.

• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Tasting as you cook is crucial. If you wait until the end, your chili may lack the depth of flavor; adjust with more chili powder or salt as needed during cooking.

• Ignoring broth choices: Using low-quality broth can diminish the overall flavor of your chili. Opt for a good quality chicken or beef broth to enhance the dish’s richness.

• Forgetting about toppings: Toppings like cilantro or lime wedges can elevate your chili. Don’t skip them, as they add freshness and extra flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the chili to cool completely before sealing it in the container.

Freezing Street Corn Chicken Chili

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Street Corn Chicken Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place chili in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between sessions.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Street Corn Chicken Chili that might help you along the way!

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn works well in this recipe. Just add it directly without thawing for convenience.

How spicy is Street Corn Chicken Chili?

The spice level depends on how many jalapeños you use. For milder taste, reduce the amount or remove seeds completely.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative if preferred.

Can I make Street Corn Chicken Chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish tastes even better when made ahead. Prepare it a day prior and store it in the fridge.

How do I customize my Street Corn Chicken Chili?

Feel free to add black beans, bell peppers, or even extra spices based on your personal taste preferences!

Final Thoughts

Street Corn Chicken Chili is not only delicious but also versatile enough to cater to various tastes. You can easily customize it by adding different ingredients or toppings according to your preference. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings!