Street Corn Chicken Chili

Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delightful blend of flavors that combines the comforting essence of white chicken chili with the vibrant taste of Mexican street corn. This one-pot dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s game day, a family gathering, or a cozy weeknight dinner. With its creamy texture and zesty notes, Street Corn Chicken Chili offers a unique twist that will leave everyone craving more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Fusion: The combination of spices, chicken, and fresh corn creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• One-Pot Wonder: Simplify your cooking and clean-up with this easy-to-make recipe that requires just one pot.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite garnishes like cilantro or lime wedges to make each serving unique.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Store any extra chili in the fridge for a quick reheat meal that tastes even better the next day.
• Family-Friendly Dish: With mild spice levels and hearty ingredients, it’s a hit among both kids and adults.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, ensure you have all the necessary tools at your disposal. This will help streamline the process and make your cooking experience enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for cooking large batches evenly without spilling.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and meat.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cuts for quicker prep time.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.

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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 Chicken Mixture

• 6 to 8 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 pounds ground chicken
• 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)
• a few dashes hot sauce of choice

For Creaminess and Freshness

• 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

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 the Chicken

Add in 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 fully cooked.

Step 3: Simmer Together

Pour in the chicken broth, optional beef broth, and chicken base. Bring everything to a boil. Then reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes.

Step 4: Final Touches

Stir in hot sauce, sour cream, cilantro, and lime juice. Let it cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. Taste for seasoning; adjust with more chili powder or kosher salt if needed.

Serve hot with optional toppings such as extra cilantro, crumbled cotija cheese, chili powder sprinkled on top, or lime wedges on the side. Enjoy your delicious Street Corn Chicken Chili!

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Chili

This Street Corn Chicken Chili is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate the experience, here are some serving suggestions.

With Fresh Toppings

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor that complements the chili.
• Crumbled Cotija Cheese: Adds a creamy and salty touch, enhancing the overall taste.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime brightens the dish and adds a zesty kick.

As a Filling Meal

• Over Rice: Serving the chili over white or brown rice makes it more filling and satisfying.
• With Tortilla Chips: Perfect for dipping, chips add a crunchy texture that contrasts with the chili’s creaminess.

In a Bowl

• With Sour Cream Swirl: Top your chili with a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
• In Bread Bowls: Serve in hollowed-out bread rolls for a fun and edible presentation.

How to Perfect Street Corn Chicken Chili

To ensure your Street Corn Chicken Chili is as flavorful as possible, consider these tips:

• Bold Spices: Use plenty of chili powder and cumin to give your chili depth and warmth.
• Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh corn and herbs for vibrant flavors that canned counterparts lack.
• Adjust Consistency: If the chili is too thick, add more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chili to sit for 10-15 minutes off heat lets flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Chicken Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Street Corn Chicken Chili can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Cornbread: Sweet and fluffy cornbread is perfect for soaking up the delicious chili.
2. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole provides a refreshing contrast to the spice of the chili.
3. Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens adds freshness and balances out the richness of the chili.
4. Mexican Rice: Flavored rice adds another layer of taste while complementing the main dish.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies bring smoky flavors that work well with spicy chili.
6. Tortillas: Soft or crispy tortillas can be used to scoop up chili or as a delicious side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to be mindful of when making Street Corn Chicken Chili.

• Ignoring ingredient prep: Always prepare your ingredients ahead of time. This ensures even cooking and a smoother cooking process.
• Overcooking the chicken: Ground chicken cooks quickly. Stir frequently and cook just until it’s no longer pink to avoid dryness.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Taste as you go! Adjust spices and salt at each stage for the best flavor.
• Not using fresh corn: Fresh corn adds sweetness and texture. If using frozen, ensure it’s thawed and well-drained before adding.
• Failing to let it simmer: Allowing the chili to simmer develops flavors. Don’t rush this step for the best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the chili to cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Street Corn Chicken Chili

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Street Corn Chicken Chili

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of broth if needed for moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of meat in Street Corn Chicken Chili?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or beef based on your preference while maintaining similar cooking times.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Greek yogurt is an excellent alternative that adds creaminess without sacrificing flavor.

How spicy is Street Corn Chicken Chili?

The spice level depends on the number of jalapenos used. Adjust according to your taste by adding or reducing them accordingly.

Can I make Street Corn Chicken Chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute ground chicken with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How do I customize my Street Corn Chicken Chili?

Feel free to add beans, different vegetables, or adjust spices according to your personal taste!

Final Thoughts

Street Corn Chicken Chili is not only packed with flavor but also offers versatility in its preparation. You can easily customize it with extra toppings or ingredients based on what you have on hand. This dish is perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home—give it a try!