Street Corn Chicken Chili

Street Corn Chicken Chili brings together the comforting warmth of a classic chili and the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn. This dish is perfect for gatherings, cozy dinners, or meal prep throughout the week. With its rich taste and creamy texture, it stands out as a hearty one-pot meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Fusion: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a unique taste that’s both comforting and exciting.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or serve it alongside rice, tortillas, or your favorite toppings.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pot, making it great for busy weeknights.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Makes enough servings for leftovers, ensuring you have delicious meals ready for the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make Street Corn Chicken Chili successfully, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference. Here are some essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: This ensures even cooking and allows for all ingredients to blend beautifully.
• Cutting board: A sturdy surface is essential for safely chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes quick work of dicing onion, jalapenos, and garlic.
• Wooden spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot while breaking apart the ground chicken.

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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: 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: Brown Chicken

Add the garlic, ground chicken, chili powder, paprika, cumin, more kosher salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for another 7 to 9 minutes. Stir often while breaking apart the chicken with a spatula until browned.

Step 3: Simmer Together

Pour in the chicken broth along with beef broth if using and add the chicken base. Bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes.

Step 4: Final Touches

Mix in hot sauce, sour cream, cilantro, and lime juice. Cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until everything is heated through. Taste your chili for seasoning; adjust with more chili powder or salt as needed.

Serve hot with optional toppings like more cilantro or crumbled cotija cheese on top! Enjoy your delicious Street Corn Chicken Chili!

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Chili

Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and comforting textures. To elevate your dining experience, consider these serving suggestions.

Toppings

• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color to your chili.
• Crumbled Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese enhances the chili with a creamy texture and salty taste.
• Chili Powder: A sprinkle of chili powder can intensify the spice and richness of the dish.
• Lime Wedges: Squeezing fresh lime juice over the chili brightens up the flavors.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: A warm slice of cornbread pairs perfectly, soaking up every bit of chili goodness.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips make for a fun side and are great for dipping into the chili.
• Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the chili.

How to Perfect Street Corn Chicken Chili

Perfecting your Street Corn Chicken Chili takes a few thoughtful steps. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is always delicious.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn, peppers, and herbs enhance flavor significantly compared to canned or frozen options.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the heat by adding more or fewer jalapenos based on your preference.
• Let it Simmer: Allowing the chili to simmer longer helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.
• Taste as You Go: Regularly tasting during cooking allows you to adjust seasoning for optimal flavor.
• Add Creaminess: For extra creaminess, consider mixing in more sour cream before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Chicken Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Street Corn Chicken Chili can take your meal to the next level. Here are some great options that complement this vibrant dish.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices makes a hearty addition, perfect for soaking up chili.
2. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adds richness and balances out spicy notes in the chili.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies add a smoky flavor that pairs nicely with the chili’s sweetness from corn.
4. Quesadillas: Cheese-filled quesadillas are melty and satisfying alongside your bowl of chili.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the spicy, savory chili.
6. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw offers a crunchy texture that complements the warmth of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure a perfect Street Corn Chicken Chili, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using fresh ingredients like corn and spices enhances flavor. Always choose high-quality produce for the best results.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooking can lead to dry chicken. Cook just until fully combined and heated through to maintain moisture.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Taste your chili as you go. Adjust salt, pepper, and chili powder to suit your preference for the most flavorful dish.
• Neglecting toppings: Toppings add texture and flavor. Don’t skip options like cilantro or crumbled cheese, as they elevate the overall experience.
• Rushing the simmering process: Allowing enough time for simmering develops rich flavors. Don’t rush this step; aim for at least 25 minutes of simmering.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

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.

Reheating Street Corn Chicken Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Street Corn Chicken Chili?

Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delightful blend of creamy white chicken chili and Mexican street corn. It’s a comforting, one-pot meal packed with flavor.

How long does it take to make Street Corn Chicken Chili?

The total time is about 65 minutes, including prep time of 10 minutes and cook time of approximately 55 minutes.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that works well in this Street Corn Chicken Chili recipe.

What toppings go well with Street Corn Chicken Chili?

Popular toppings include chopped cilantro, crumbled cheese, lime wedges, and additional chili powder for added flavor.

How do I spice up my Street Corn Chicken Chili?

If you prefer more heat, consider adding extra jalapenos or a dash of cayenne pepper during cooking for an extra kick.

Final Thoughts

Street Corn Chicken Chili is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite proteins or toppings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its rich flavors and satisfying warmth!