Street Corn Chicken Chili

Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delightful fusion of flavors that combines the heartiness of white chicken chili with the vibrant taste of Mexican street corn. Perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful. With its blend of spices, fresh ingredients, and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This one-pot dish simplifies cooking without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights!
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a rich and satisfying taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it at gatherings. It’s great for parties and casual dinners alike.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with vegetables and lean protein, this chili is both comforting and healthy.
• Customizable Toppings: You can personalize each bowl with toppings like cilantro or cheese for added flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything ready will help you follow the recipe effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients evenly while allowing plenty of space for stirring.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping veggies, keeping your kitchen organized during prep.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts and makes chopping quick and efficient.

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

• 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

• 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 7 to 9 minutes while stirring occasionally until softened.

Step 2: Cook Chicken & Spices

Add the garlic, ground chicken, chili powder, paprika, cumin, more kosher salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 7 to 9 minutes. Stir often, breaking apart the chicken with a spatula until fully cooked.

Step 3: Add Broth & Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth, beef broth (if using), and chicken base. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 25 to 30 minutes until thickened. Stir in hot sauce, sour cream, cilantro, and lime juice. Cook for another 5 to 10 minutes.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning & Serve

Taste your chili for seasoning. Add more chili powder or kosher salt if desired. Serve hot with optional toppings such as more cilantro or crumbled cotija cheese alongside lime wedges if you wish!

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Chili

Street Corn Chicken Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that shines on its own but can be elevated with the right accompaniments. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement this delicious chili.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Chopped Cilantro – Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
• Lime Wedges – Squeeze fresh lime juice over your bowl for a zesty kick.

Pair with Crunchy Toppings

• Crumbled Cotija Cheese – This crumbly cheese adds a creamy texture and salty flavor.
• Chili Powder Sprinkle – A light dusting of chili powder enhances the spice level.

Serve with Sides

• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips are perfect for dipping into the chili.
• Cornbread Muffins – These sweet muffins provide a nice contrast to the chili’s heat.

How to Perfect Street Corn Chicken Chili

To get the most out of your Street Corn Chicken Chili, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh corn and spices will enhance the overall flavor of your chili.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Modify jalapenos and hot sauce based on your preferred spice level.
• Simmer Longer for Depth – Allowing the chili to simmer longer can deepen flavors significantly.
• Taste as You Go – Regularly taste your chili and adjust seasoning as needed for the best results.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Chicken Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Street Corn Chicken Chili can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with herbs complements the chili perfectly.
2. Guacamole – This creamy avocado dip adds richness and balances spiciness.
3. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies grilled to perfection provide a smoky flavor contrast.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice – A zesty rice dish that pairs well with the chili’s flavors.
5. Side Salad – A refreshing green salad with lime vinaigrette cleanses the palate.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice make a hearty addition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes while preparing Street Corn Chicken Chili is essential for achieving the best flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Using raw chicken: Ensure your ground chicken is fully cooked before adding other ingredients. This prevents any food safety issues.
• Ignoring spice levels: Adjust the amount of jalapeno and chili powder to suit your heat preference. Start with less and add more if needed!
• Overcooking the corn: Add the corn towards the end of cooking to keep its sweet crunch. Overcooking can make it soggy.
• Forgetting to taste: Always taste before serving! Adjust seasonings like salt, pepper, or lime juice to enhance flavor.
• Neglecting optional toppings: Don’t skip the toppings! They add texture and additional flavors that can elevate your chili.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Street Corn Chicken Chili

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container for expansion when freezing.

Reheating Street Corn Chicken Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How can I make Street Corn Chicken Chili spicier?

Increase the number of jalapenos or add more chili powder during cooking. You can also serve with a spicier hot sauce.

Can I use other meats in Street Corn Chicken Chili?

Yes! Ground turkey or beef can be used as substitutes for chicken if preferred.

Is Street Corn Chicken Chili healthy?

This dish is packed with protein from the chicken and nutrients from fresh vegetables like corn and peppers, making it a nutritious choice.

Can I make Street Corn Chicken Chili vegetarian?

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

How do I store leftover Street Corn Chicken Chili?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize toppings or spices according to your preferences. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for leftovers, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!