Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

We’re combining the best elements of White Chicken Chili and classic Mexican Street Corn in this Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe. This flavorful dish is perfect for any occasion, from cozy weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. With its creamy texture and zesty taste, it will surely impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This chili comes together quickly, making it a hassle-free option for busy cooks.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a deliciously vibrant taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a hearty soup or pair it with tortilla chips for a fun appetizer.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this recipe serves 8, ensuring everyone gets a satisfying bowl.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite garnishes like avocado slices or extra cilantro for added flair.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather all necessary equipment to ensure a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large 6-8 quart soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Soup Pot: Ideal for cooking up big batches of chili without overflow, ensuring even cooking.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, enhancing your prep time.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the right balance of flavors in your chili.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make the Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili:

Main 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 ounce 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

Optional Garnishes

• More cilantro or shredded cheese
• Avocado slices
• Lime wedges
• Tortilla chips

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sauté 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 while stirring. Then add in the minced garlic, chopped jalapeno, cilantro, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Sauté another 2–3 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken broth, whole chicken breasts, and chopped green chiles to the pot. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper. Bring to a boil; then reduce heat to simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 3: Prepare Fresh Corn

While waiting for the chicken to cook, cut the corn off the cobs and set aside.

Step 4: Shred Chicken & Add Corn

Use tongs to remove the cooked chicken from the pot. Stir in the fresh corn. Next, chop or shred the chicken breasts before returning them back into the pot.

Step 5: Thicken with Cream & Cheese

Stir in sour cream and shredded cheese. Gradually sprinkle cornstarch over top while stirring rapidly to avoid clumps.

Step 6: Final Simmer & Serve

Simmer for an additional 3–5 minutes until thickened. Turn off heat and stir in lime juice. Ladle into bowls and serve with your favorite garnishes. Enjoy your homemade Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

Serving your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili can elevate the dining experience. This dish is hearty and flavorful, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal.

Garnishes

• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color on top of your chili.
• Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle some extra shredded pepper jack cheese for a creamy texture.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado balances the spice and adds richness.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the flavors and adds freshness.
• Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside for a crunchy contrast, perfect for scooping.

Pairing with Bread

• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements the chili’s spice perfectly.
• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is great for dipping into the chili.

Accompanying Salads

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: A fresh salad that mirrors the flavors in your chili.
• Simple Green Salad: Light and refreshing, it balances the richness of the chili.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

Perfecting your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili involves a few simple techniques. With these tips, you can enhance the flavors and texture for an even better dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs will elevate the overall taste of your chili.
• Adjust spice level: Modify the cayenne pepper based on your heat preference for a milder or spicier dish.
• Slow-cook for depth of flavor: Letting it simmer longer melds the flavors beautifully; consider using a slow cooker if time allows.
• Incorporate more veggies: Add bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.
• Taste as you go: Adjust seasonings gradually to achieve your desired flavor profile before serving.

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 delicious options to consider:

1. Mexican Rice: Flavored with spices, this dish complements the chili while adding hearty grains.
2. Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole is great for dipping tortilla chips or topping your chili.
3. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad made with black beans, corn, and lime dressing provides a nice contrast.
4. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn on the cob topped with cheese and spices mirrors the flavors in your chili.
5. Quesadillas: Cheese-filled tortillas served warm can be dipped into the chili for added flavor.
6. Chips & Salsa: A classic accompaniment that provides crunch and freshness before digging into the main dish.
7. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add color and nutrients, enhancing your meal’s appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can detract from its deliciousness.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Failing to season properly can lead to bland chili. Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning as needed during cooking.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Stale spices or old corn can compromise flavor. Always use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
• Ignoring Consistency: If your chili is too thin, it won’t have the right texture. Use cornstarch to thicken it appropriately.
• Neglecting Garnishes: Skipping garnishes like cilantro or lime can miss out on enhancing flavors. Always add these for an extra punch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the chili to cool before sealing the container.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

• Freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe that might help you.

Can I use frozen corn in this recipe?

Yes, frozen corn works well if fresh corn is unavailable. Just add it directly without thawing.

Is this chili spicy?

The spiciness depends on the jalapeño used. You can reduce the amount or remove seeds for less heat.

How do I customize my Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe?

Feel free to add black beans, bell peppers, or other veggies based on your preference for added nutrition and flavor.

What should I serve with this chili?

This chili pairs nicely with tortilla chips, cornbread, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Can I make this chili in advance?

Absolutely! It tastes even better after sitting overnight as flavors meld together.

Final Thoughts

The Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe is not only hearty but also packed with vibrant flavors that everyone will love. It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it truly your own! Give it a try and enjoy a delightful twist on traditional chili!