Street Corn Chicken Chili

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, look no further! This Street Corn Chicken Chili is an absolute crowd-pleaser that beautifully combines the comforting essence of white chicken chili with the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish brings everyone together around the table. Plus, it’s made in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

I love this recipe not just for its incredible taste but also for how easy it is to whip up. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, you’ll find joy in cooking and sharing this delicious chili. Let’s dive into what makes it so special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of flavors; it’s a hit at any gathering!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This chili keeps well, so you can prepare it in advance and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Flavor-Packed: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a taste sensation that will leave your taste buds dancing.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our Street Corn Chicken Chili! These are staples that pack a punch of flavor while keeping everything fresh and satisfying.

For the Chili 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 to taste
• 6 to 8 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 pounds ground chicken

For Seasoning

• 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 Finishing 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

Variations

This Street Corn Chicken Chili is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or plant-based ground meat for a different flavor profile or to suit dietary preferences.
• Add beans: Toss in black beans or chickpeas for extra fiber and heartiness!
• Spice it up: Increase the heat by adding more jalapenos or even some diced serrano peppers.
• Make it creamy: Stir in extra sour cream or cream cheese for an ultra-rich texture.

How to Make Street Corn Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sauté Your Vegetables

Set a large soup pot over medium heat. Add olive oil, diced onion, jalapenos, corn kernels, kosher salt, and pepper. Sauté for about 7 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step helps release the natural sweetness from the onions and corn while softening everything up nicely.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Next, add minced garlic along with ground chicken, chili powder, paprika, cumin, and a bit more kosher salt and pepper. Cook for another 7 to 9 minutes. Make sure to stir frequently and break apart the chicken with a spatula. Browning the chicken adds depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible!

Step 3: Simmer Together

Pour in your chicken broth and optional beef broth along with the chicken base. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes. This allows all those amazing flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Finish with Creaminess

Stir in hot sauce, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until warmed through. The sour cream adds creaminess while balancing out the spices—it’s what makes this chili so comforting!

Step 5: Taste & Serve

Taste your chili one last time—adjust with more chili powder, kosher salt, or pepper if needed. Serve hot with toppings like extra cilantro, crumbled cotija cheese, chili powder dusting, and lime wedges if desired. Enjoy every spoonful of your Street Corn Chicken Chili with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Street Corn Chicken Chili

Creating the perfect Street Corn Chicken Chili is all about enhancing those vibrant flavors and achieving the right texture. Here are some handy tips to elevate your dish!

• Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn on the cob adds a sweet crunch that frozen corn simply can’t replicate. The natural sugars in fresh corn caramelize beautifully during cooking, enhancing the overall flavor.

• Control Spice Levels: Adjust the number of jalapenos to suit your heat preference. If you want a milder chili, remove the seeds and membranes where most of the heat resides.

• Let It Rest: After cooking, let your chili sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a richer taste.

• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to mix up your toppings! Besides cilantro and cotija cheese, try adding diced avocado or crushed tortilla chips for extra texture and flavor.

• Make It Ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day! Prepare it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently when you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Chili

This hearty dish is perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. It’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it great for entertaining or just enjoying with family.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Add a fresh, mild onion flavor that complements the chili without overpowering it.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado balances the spice and adds a lovely richness.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime right before eating brightens up all those rich flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is a classic pairing that soaks up all the delicious broth while adding a comforting element to your meal.
• Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with tomatoes and spices makes for a great base alongside your chili, helping to soak up all those tasty juices.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a citrus vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chili.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for dipping into your chili or simply enjoying on their own as a snack!

Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Street Corn Chicken Chili with friends and family! It’s sure to become a favorite recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Make Ahead and Storage

Street Corn Chicken Chili is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish throughout the week. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it holds up well in both the fridge and freezer, making it perfect for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Label with the date so you know when it was made.

Freezing

• Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of each container as the chili will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals (1-2 minutes) until hot, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Street Corn Chicken Chili.

Can I make Street Corn Chicken Chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground chicken with your choice of plant-based protein or beans. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

How spicy is Street Corn Chicken Chili?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. If you’re sensitive to heat, use fewer jalapenos or remove the seeds entirely. For more heat, consider adding extra hot sauce or using spicier peppers.

What can I serve with Street Corn Chicken Chili?

This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad. You can also enjoy it on its own topped with your favorite garnishes!

How long does Street Corn Chicken Chili last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Street Corn Chicken Chili will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I skip any ingredients in Street Corn Chicken Chili?

While each ingredient adds unique flavor, you can customize this recipe based on your preferences. Feel free to omit items like cilantro or sour cream if desired!

Final Thoughts

Street Corn Chicken Chili is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl! This dish brings together comforting flavors that make any day feel special. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your results or any twists you add—happy cooking!