Street Corn Chicken Chili

Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delightful fusion of flavors that combines the hearty essence of white chicken chili with the vibrant tastes of Mexican street corn. This one-pot dish is perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or cozy nights in. With its creamy texture and spicy kick, it’s a meal that will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Fusion: The combination of spices, corn, and creamy ingredients creates a unique taste that’s both comforting and exciting.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on its own or with toppings like cilantro and lime for a customizable meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean ground chicken and fresh vegetables, this chili is a nutritious option for any dinner table.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its rich flavor profile, this dish is sure to be a hit at parties and gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Street Corn Chicken Chili, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything you need at hand will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Stirring spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking all the ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and prepping ingredients.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and efficient slicing of ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements help maintain the balance of flavors in your dish.

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
• 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 & Flavor

• 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: Cook the Vegetables

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

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

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

Step 3: Simmer the Chili

Pour in the chicken broth along with beef broth if you’re using it. Add the chicken base as well. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes.

Step 4: Finish It Off

After simmering, stir in hot sauce, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Cook for another 5 to 10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with more chili powder or kosher salt as needed. Serve hot with optional toppings such as extra cilantro or lime wedges.

Enjoy your flavorful Street Corn Chicken Chili!

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Chili

Serving Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delightful experience. This dish offers a creamy and spicy flavor profile that pairs beautifully with various toppings and sides. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Fresh Cilantro

• Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top for a burst of flavor and freshness.

Crumbled Cotija Cheese

• For a creamy, salty addition, sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese over the chili just before serving.

Lime Wedges

• Serve lime wedges on the side to squeeze over the chili, adding a zesty kick that complements the flavors.

Chili Powder Dusting

• A light dusting of chili powder on top provides an extra layer of spice and color.

Tortilla Chips

• Offer tortilla chips alongside for dipping or sprinkling into the chili for added crunch.

Avocado Slices

• Creamy avocado slices provide richness and balance the spiciness of the dish nicely.

How to Perfect Street Corn Chicken Chili

Perfecting your Street Corn Chicken Chili can elevate this dish to new heights. Try these tips for maximum flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs bring vibrant flavors that canned alternatives might lack.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the number of jalapenos or add more hot sauce according to your heat preference.

• Let It Simmer: Allowing the chili to simmer longer enhances its depth of flavor, making it even tastier.

• Balance with Acid: Adding an extra splash of lime juice can brighten the dish and enhance all flavors.

• Mix Broths: Using both chicken broth and beef broth adds complexity; choose low-sodium options for better control over saltiness.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Chicken Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Street Corn Chicken Chili can create a well-rounded meal. Consider these delicious options:

1. Cornbread: Soft, sweet cornbread complements the chili’s spiciness perfectly.
2. Green Salad: A fresh green salad with citrus vinaigrette balances the richness of the chili.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add smokiness and texture.
4. Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice serves as a great base to soak up extra chili broth.
5. Quesadillas: Cheese quesadillas make for a cheesy, melty side that pairs well with any soup or chili.
6. Slaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and contrast to the creamy chili.
7. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your bowl of chili.
8. Pickled Jalapeños: For those who love additional heat, pickled jalapeños offer a tangy kick on the side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Street Corn Chicken Chili a hit. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Skipping ingredient prep: Always prepare your ingredients beforehand. Dicing the onions and peppers in advance saves time and ensures even cooking.
• Neglecting seasoning: Don’t forget to taste as you go. Adding salt and spices at different stages enhances flavor throughout the cooking process.
• Overcooking the corn: Be careful not to overcook the corn kernels. They should remain tender but still crisp, adding texture to your chili.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth significantly impacts the dish’s flavor. Opt for high-quality chicken or beef broth for the best results.
• Ignoring toppings: Toppings can elevate your chili. Consider adding crumbled cheese, fresh cilantro, or lime wedges for added flavor and presentation.

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 a container.

Freezing Street Corn Chicken Chili

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the chili will expand when frozen.

Reheating Street Corn Chicken Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Street Corn Chicken Chili?

Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delicious fusion of chicken chili and Mexican street corn flavors, creating a comforting one-pot meal.

Can I use different proteins in this recipe?

Yes! While this recipe uses ground chicken, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey or beef for different flavor profiles.

How spicy is Street Corn Chicken Chili?

The spiciness level can be adjusted based on your preference. For milder chili, reduce or omit jalapenos and hot sauce.

What toppings go well with Street Corn Chicken Chili?

Popular toppings include fresh cilantro, crumbled cheese, lime wedges, and additional chili powder for an extra kick.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with plant-based meat alternatives and vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

Street Corn Chicken Chili offers a delightful blend of flavors that are sure to please everyone at your table. This versatile recipe allows for easy customization; feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level. Try it today for a comforting meal that warms both heart and soul!