Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delightful fusion of flavors that combines the comfort of a classic white chicken chili with the vibrant essence of Mexican street corn. This dish is perfect for gatherings, cozy family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. The creamy texture from sour cream and fresh lime juice perfectly complements the spices, making every spoonful a burst of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This one-pot dish makes cooking and cleanup a breeze, allowing you to enjoy time with friends and family.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices, fresh corn, and chicken creates an irresistible taste that will leave everyone wanting more.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the recipe by adding different vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your preferences.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day or a cozy night in, this Street Corn Chicken Chili fits right in.
- Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this chili is both satisfying and nutritious.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Street Corn Chicken Chili efficiently, having the right tools at hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Stirring spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot: Ideal for cooking all the ingredients together without crowding.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and handling raw chicken.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise ingredient amounts for consistent flavor.
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!
Ingredients:
– 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 beer (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: more cilantro, crumbled cotija cheese, chili powder, lime wedges
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
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 about 7 to 9 minutes while stirring occasionally until softened.
Step 2: Cook Chicken and Spices
Add the garlic, ground chicken, chili powder, paprika, cumin, along with more kosher salt and pepper. Cook for another 7 to 9 minutes. Stir frequently while breaking apart the chicken with a spatula until it’s fully cooked.
Step 3: Simmer the Chili
Pour in the chicken broth, beer (if using), and chicken base. Bring this mixture to a boil then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes. After simmering, add hot sauce, sour cream, cilantro, and lime juice. Cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
Step 4: Final Seasoning
Taste your chili for seasoning. Adjust with more chili powder, kosher salt, or pepper as needed. Serve hot with optional toppings such as more cilantro, crumbled cotija cheese, chili powder, or lime wedges if desired.
How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Chili
Serving Street Corn Chicken Chili is easy and fun! This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, maximizing its delightful flavors. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.
With Toppings
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and freshness.
- Crumbled Cotija Cheese: This cheese adds a creamy texture and salty kick.
- Lime Wedges: Squeeze lime for a zesty finish that brightens the chili.
- Chili Powder: A sprinkle of chili powder can enhance the spice level if desired.
With Tortilla Chips
- Crunchy Companion: Serve with tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast to the chili’s smooth texture.
- Dipping Delight: Use the chips to scoop up the chili for an interactive meal.
Over Rice
- Hearty Base: Serve over white or brown rice to make the meal more filling.
- Flavor Infusion: The rice absorbs some of the chili’s delicious broth, enhancing every bite.
In a Bread Bowl
- Unique Presentation: Hollow out a bread bowl and fill it with chili for a fun, edible vessel.
- Satisfying Combo: The bread soaks up the flavors while providing a chewy texture.
How to Perfect Street Corn Chicken Chili
Perfecting your Street Corn Chicken Chili can elevate this dish from good to unforgettable. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve optimal flavor and consistency.
- Bold Spices: Don’t be shy with spices! Adjust them according to your taste for a robust flavor profile.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh corn when in season for the sweetest taste. Frozen corn is also a great option year-round.
- Simmer Longer: Allowing the chili to simmer longer melds the flavors beautifully. Aim for at least 30 minutes if time permits.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste during cooking. Adjust seasoning gradually until it suits your palate.
Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Chicken Chili
Complementing your Street Corn Chicken Chili with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs nicely with spicy chili, balancing flavors perfectly.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness and pairs well with the spice of the chili.
- Mexican Rice: Flavored rice brings additional textures and enhances the overall meal.
- Grilled Vegetables: Grilled peppers and zucchini add smoky flavors that complement the dish well.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp salad provides a refreshing crunch next to hearty chili.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a cool contrast that balances the heat of the chili.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Street Corn Chicken Chili, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough salt and spices can lead to bland chili. Always taste and adjust seasoning during cooking.
- Overcooking the chicken: If you cook the ground chicken too long, it can become dry. Cook just until no longer pink, then add other ingredients.
- Ignoring ingredient quality: Using poor-quality chicken or broth can negatively affect flavor. Always choose high-quality ingredients for the best taste.
- Not simmering long enough: Failing to let the chili simmer allows flavors to meld poorly. Aim for at least 25 minutes of simmering for optimal flavor.
- Forgetting toppings: Skipping toppings like cilantro and cotija cheese can diminish the overall experience. Don’t forget to add these delicious extras before serving!
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Street Corn Chicken Chili
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space in containers as chili expands when frozen.
Reheating Street Corn Chicken Chili
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Place chili in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour chili into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Street Corn Chicken Chili ahead of time?
Yes! It tastes even better the next day after flavors develop overnight.
What is the best way to customize Street Corn Chicken Chili?
You can add beans, different vegetables, or switch out chicken for turkey or beef based on your preference.
How spicy is Street Corn Chicken Chili?
The spiciness depends on how many jalapenos you use. For a milder version, use fewer jalapenos or remove their seeds.
What toppings go well with Street Corn Chicken Chili?
Popular choices include crumbled cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and additional chili powder for extra kick.
Final Thoughts
Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delightful fusion of flavors that makes it perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different spices and toppings according to your taste. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will love!
Street Corn Chicken Chili
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the classic flavors of white chicken chili and the vibrant essence of Mexican street corn. This one-pot meal is perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, offering a creamy texture enhanced by sour cream and fresh lime juice. Each spoonful bursts with flavor thanks to a delightful blend of spices, fresh corn, and tender chicken. Whether you’re hosting game day or enjoying a quiet night in, this chili is sure to impress with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion (diced)
- 3 to 4 jalapeno peppers (diced)
- 6 to 8 ears corn on the cob (kernels removed)
- 6 to 8 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 pounds ground chicken
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- Fresh cilantro and lime juice for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion, jalapenos, corn kernels, salt, and pepper for 7-9 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and ground chicken along with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 7-9 minutes, breaking apart the chicken until fully cooked.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil; reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 25-30 minutes. Stir in sour cream, cilantro, lime juice, and hot sauce; cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving hot with optional toppings like cotija cheese and lime wedges.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-pot
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Feel free to customize your chili by adding beans or varying the spice level based on preference. Use fresh corn when available for the sweetest taste; frozen corn is a great alternative year-round.