Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe brings together the delightful flavors of Mexican street corn and hearty chicken chili. This dish is not only creamy and slightly spicy, but it’s also filled with sweet corn, savory ground chicken, and fresh ingredients. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this chili satisfies cravings while being easy to prepare. You’ll love how quickly this vibrant dish comes together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just over an hour, you can whip up this delicious chili without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Bold Flavors: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a flavor explosion that will impress your family and friends.
• Versatile Dish: Whether you’re serving it as a main course or as part of a larger spread, this chili fits perfectly into any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Its unique blend of Mexican street corn flavors makes it a hit at parties, potlucks, or cozy family dinners.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to adjust the spice level or toppings to cater to your guests’ preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential tools before you start. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating the perfect Street Corn Chicken Chili.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: A good-sized pot ensures even cooking and allows you to simmer the chili properly without overflow.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools are perfect for mixing ingredients without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, saving you time during prep.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping and dicing while keeping your kitchen organized.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

• 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 and black pepper, to taste

Meaty Components

• 6 to 8 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 pounds ground chicken

Spices and Broth

• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon chicken base (such as Better Than Bouillon)
• A few dashes hot sauce of choice

Creamy Finishings

• 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 Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Set a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil followed by the diced onion, diced jalapenos, corn kernels, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook for 7 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Stir in the minced garlic and ground chicken. Sprinkle in the chili powder, paprika, cumin, along with additional salt and pepper if desired. Cook for another 7 to 9 minutes while breaking apart the chicken with a spatula until it browns nicely.

Step 3: Simmer the Chili

Pour in the chicken broth and mix in the chicken base. Raise the heat to bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing it back down to medium-low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 25 to 30 minutes; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Add Creaminess

Stir in your hot sauce of choice along with sour cream, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Allow it to cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes while stirring gently until everything is creamy and well-combined. Taste your chili; adjust seasoning with more chili powder or salt if needed.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle generous portions of chili into bowls. Garnish with extra cilantro, crumbled cotija cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder, and lime wedges if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

Serving your Street Corn Chicken Chili is an opportunity to elevate the dish and create a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative ways to present this flavorful chili.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
• Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side so guests can squeeze fresh lime juice over their chili for added zing.
• Crumbled Cotija Cheese: Add crumbled cotija cheese for a creamy, salty touch that complements the dish perfectly.

Accompany with Crunchy Extras

• Tortilla Chips: Offer crispy tortilla chips for dipping or topping, adding a satisfying crunch.
• Cornbread Muffins: Pair the chili with sweet cornbread muffins to balance the savory flavors.
• Avocado Slices: Serve slices of ripe avocado for creaminess that enhances each bite.

Create a Chili Bar

• Toppings Station: Set up a toppings station where guests can choose their favorites like sour cream, jalapenos, and extra spices.
• Side Dishes Variety: Include different sides like rice or quinoa so everyone can customize their meal.

How to Perfect Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

To make your Street Corn Chicken Chili truly stand out, consider these tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs bring more flavor compared to canned or frozen options.
• Adjust Spice Level: Control the heat by adding more or fewer jalapenos according to your preference.
• Simmer Longer: Letting the chili simmer longer helps deepen the flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes.
• Stir in Cheese Before Serving: For an extra creamy texture, stir in cheese like Monterey Jack just before serving.
• Store Properly: Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, allowing flavors to meld even further.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

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

1. Cornbread: This sweet and buttery bread complements the spiciness of the chili beautifully.
2. Rice Pilaf: A light rice pilaf adds texture and absorbs extra sauce from the chili.
3. Mexican Rice: Seasoned Mexican rice provides an extra layer of flavor that pairs well with the chili.
4. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole offers a cool contrast to the spicy chili, making every bite delightful.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies add smokiness and are a healthy addition to your meal.
6. Salad with Lime Vinaigrette: A light salad dressed with lime vinaigrette refreshes the palate between bites of chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a delicious outcome.

• Ignoring ingredient prep: Always prepare and measure your ingredients beforehand. This saves time and prevents you from missing key components during cooking.
• Overcooking chicken: Ground chicken cooks quickly. Monitor it closely to prevent dryness; aim for just cooked through for the best texture.
• Skipping flavor adjustments: Tasting as you cook is essential. Adjust spices and seasoning gradually to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
• Not letting it simmer: Allowing the chili to simmer is crucial for flavor development. Don’t rush this step; 25 to 30 minutes makes a big difference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Street Corn Chicken Chili in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The chili can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to label them with the date.

Reheating Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

• 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: Place chili in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Pour chili into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe that may help you get the most out of this dish.

Can I use other meats in this Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or beef if you prefer. The cooking time may vary slightly with different meats.

How spicy is the Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe?

The spiciness depends on how many jalapenos you use. For a milder version, reduce the number of peppers or remove the seeds.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

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

What toppings go well with this chili?

Popular toppings include crumbled cotija cheese, extra cilantro, lime wedges, and avocado slices for added creaminess and flavor.

How can I customize my Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe?

Feel free to add beans, bell peppers, or adjust spices according to your taste preferences. This dish is versatile!

Final Thoughts

The Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe combines rich flavors and textures that are sure to please everyone at your table. It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite toppings or additional ingredients!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Street Corn Chicken Chili

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Experience the vibrant and comforting flavors of our Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe, a delightful fusion of creamy chicken chili with the essence of Mexican street corn. This dish is not only quick to prepare—taking just over an hour—but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that brings bold flavors to your dinner table. Packed with sweet corn, savory ground chicken, and a medley of spices, it’s perfect for weeknight meals or gatherings with friends and family. Customize it with your favorite toppings for an unforgettable culinary experience that everyone will love!

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Ingredients

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• 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 and black pepper, to taste
• 6 to 8 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 pounds ground chicken
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon chicken base (such as Better Than Bouillon)
• A few dashes hot sauce of choice
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup chopped cilantro
• 3 tablespoons lime juice

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Instructions

1. In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, jalapenos, corn, salt, and pepper; cook until softened (about 7 to 9 minutes).
2. Stir in minced garlic and ground chicken along with spices; cook until browned (7 to 9 minutes).
3. Pour in chicken broth and chicken base; bring to a boil then simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes.
4. Mix in hot sauce, sour cream, cilantro, and lime juice; cook an additional 5 to 10 minutes until creamy.
5. Serve hot with desired toppings like extra cilantro and lime wedges.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
• Calories: 430
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 860mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 120mg