Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe combines the rich flavors of white chicken chili with the vibrant essence of Mexican street corn. This dish offers a comforting, hearty meal perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends and family. Its zesty taste and creamy texture will delight your taste buds while being easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients makes this chili rich and satisfying.
- Easy preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious dish without stress.
- Versatile: Perfect for cozy nights at home or as a crowd-pleaser for parties.
- Healthy ingredients: Packed with protein and veggies, this chili is a nutritious choice that doesn’t skimp on taste.
- Creamy finish: The addition of sour cream and cheese creates a luscious texture that sets it apart from typical chilis.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These help streamline the cooking process for a seamless experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups and chilis evenly, providing ample space for all ingredients.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions, garlic, and vegetables quick and easy.
- Tongs: Perfect for safely handling hot chicken, allowing you to shred it without burning your hands.
Ingredients
For the Chili Base
- 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
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper
For Garnish
- More cilantro or shredded cheese, avocado slices, lime wedges, or tortilla chips
How to Make Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Set a large 6-8 quart soup pot over medium heat.
* Add the olive oil and chopped onions.
* Sauté the onions for 2–3 minutes until they start to soften.
* Then add in the minced garlic, jalapeno, cilantro, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper.
* Sauté another 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken broth to the pot along with whole chicken breasts and chopped green chiles.
* Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
* Bring to a boil before reducing heat to simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
Step 3: Prepare the Corn
While the chicken simmers:
* Cut corn off the cobs and set aside.
Step 4: Shred Chicken & Add Corn
Use tongs to carefully remove cooked chicken from the pot.
* Add corn into the pot and stir well.
* Shred or chop the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces before returning them to the pot.
Step 5: Stir in Creaminess
Mix in sour cream and shredded cheese.
* Stir rapidly while sprinkling cornstarch over the top of your chili to avoid clumps.
Step 6: Final Simmer & Serve
Let it simmer for an additional 3–5 minutes until thickened.
* Turn off heat then stir in lime juice before ladling into bowls.
* Serve with your choice of garnishes like cilantro or lime wedges.
Enjoy your flavorful Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili!
How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
Serving your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delightful experience that can be enhanced by thoughtful garnishes and accompaniments. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dish.
Fresh Cilantro
- Adding freshly chopped cilantro on top brings a burst of flavor and vibrant color to your chili.
Shredded Cheese
- A sprinkle of shredded pepper jack or cheddar cheese melts beautifully over the warm chili, adding creaminess.
Avocado Slices
- Creamy avocado slices complement the spice and richness of the chili, making for a refreshing contrast.
Lime Wedges
- Squeezing fresh lime juice over each bowl brightens the flavors, adding a zesty kick.
Tortilla Chips
- Serve with crispy tortilla chips on the side for scooping and an added crunch that pairs perfectly with the soup.
Sour Cream Drizzle
- A swirl of sour cream not only enhances creaminess but also tones down the heat for those who prefer milder flavors.
How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
Perfecting your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili is easy with a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for an even more delicious dish.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs enhance flavor significantly compared to frozen or canned options.
- Adjust spice levels: If you prefer more heat, add extra jalapenos or cayenne pepper according to your taste.
- Cook chicken thoroughly: Ensure chicken breasts are cooked through before shredding; this leads to juicy meat in every bite.
- Thicken wisely: For a thicker chili, let it simmer longer or add more cornstarch gradually until desired consistency is achieved.
- Experiment with toppings: Don’t be afraid to mix in different toppings like diced tomatoes or hot sauce for unique variations.
- Make ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day, so consider making it in advance for enhanced flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.
- Cornbread
A sweet and moist cornbread complements the chili’s spices perfectly, making it a comforting addition. - Mexican Rice
Fluffy rice seasoned with cumin and cilantro provides a great base that soaks up the chili’s broth nicely. - Simple Green Salad
A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the hearty chili. - Guacamole
Creamy guacamole adds richness and flavor while providing a cool contrast to spicy elements in the chili. - Quesadillas
Cheesy quesadillas filled with peppers or onions serve as a tasty side that pairs well with every spoonful of chili. - Grilled Vegetables
Lightly charred veggies add smokiness and texture, enhancing the overall meal experience alongside your chili. - Tortilla Wraps
Soft tortilla wraps allow guests to make their own tacos filled with chili for a fun dining option. - Pico de Gallo
Fresh pico de gallo adds brightness and crunch, making it an excellent topping or side dish alongside your delicious chili.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe, it’s easy to overlook certain details that can impact the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind:
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your chili properly can lead to bland flavors. Always taste as you go and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Remove it from the pot once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to keep it juicy.
- Not using fresh corn: Using canned corn instead of fresh can change the texture and flavor. Fresh corn adds a sweet crunch that enhances the chili’s overall experience.
- Ignoring the thickness: If your chili is too thin, it can feel more like soup. Make sure to add cornstarch as directed and allow time for it to thicken properly.
- Forgetting garnishes: Garnishes like cilantro or lime wedges can elevate your dish. Don’t skip them; they add freshness and enhance presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
- Allow it to cool completely before sealing for storage.
Freezing Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags for freezing.
- The chili can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space in containers before sealing, as liquids expand when frozen.
Reheating Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, and cover with foil. Heat for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer your serving into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe special?
This recipe combines classic white chicken chili flavors with vibrant Mexican street corn elements, creating a unique and hearty dish that’s both comforting and delicious.
Can I make this Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with beans or extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
How do I adjust the spiciness of this chili?
You can control the heat by adjusting the amount of jalapeño and cayenne pepper used. For less spice, reduce these ingredients or opt for milder peppers.
What are some great garnishes for this recipe?
Popular garnishes include chopped cilantro, avocado slices, shredded cheese, lime wedges, and tortilla chips. These add flavor and texture to each bowl of chili.
How can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe?
Feel free to experiment with different proteins like turkey or sausage. You can also add additional veggies such as bell peppers or even black beans for extra nutrition.
Final Thoughts
This Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe is not just a meal; it’s a flavorful journey that brings together rich spices and creamy textures. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Give this recipe a try; you might just find it becomes a new favorite in your household!

Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delightful fusion of creamy white chicken chili and the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn. This dish combines tender chicken, fresh corn, and zesty spices to create a comforting bowl of goodness that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. With its rich texture and bold taste, this chili is both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Elevate your meal with garnishes like cilantro, avocado, and lime for an extra burst of flavor.
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
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Sauté chopped onions in olive oil until softened. Add garlic, jalapeno, cilantro, cumin, oregano, and cayenne; cook until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and add whole chicken breasts and green chiles. Season with salt and pepper; bring to a boil then simmer for 20 minutes.
- Cut corn off the cobs while the chicken cooks.
- Remove cooked chicken from the pot; shred it and return it to the pot along with fresh corn.
- Stir in sour cream and cheese; sprinkle cornstarch to thicken.
- Simmer for an additional 3–5 minutes; stir in lime juice before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added spice, increase jalapenos or cayenne pepper. You can also substitute chicken with beans or other veggies for a vegetarian option. Make ahead for even better flavors!

