Street Corn Chicken Chili

Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delightful blend of classic white chicken chili and vibrant Mexican street corn. This dish is perfect for gatherings, cozy family dinners, or a satisfying weeknight meal. With its creamy texture and bold flavors, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Easy to prepare and packed with delicious ingredients, this one-pot wonder is a must-try for chili lovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavors: The combination of spices, corn, and savory chicken creates a depth of flavor that is irresistible.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple instructions and minimal cleanup, you can make this dish with ease.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or served as a side, it fits various occasions from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations.
• One Pot Wonder: Cooking everything in one pot reduces mess and hassle while still delivering big taste.
• Customizable Toppings: Enjoy it your way with toppings like cilantro, cotija cheese, or lime wedges.

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Tools and Preparation

To make the Street Corn Chicken Chili effortlessly, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Ensuring you have everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients together without spills or overflow.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.

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 Chili

• 6 to 8 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 pounds ground chicken
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 3/4 cup your favorite beer (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 the 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 they soften.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken with Spices

Add the garlic, ground chicken, chili powder, paprika, cumin, 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 along with beer if you’re using it. Add the chicken base next. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes.

Step 4: Final Touches

Add hot sauce, sour cream, cilantro, and lime juice into the pot. Continue cooking for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. Taste for seasoning; adjust with more chili powder or salt if needed.

Now your Street Corn Chicken Chili is ready! Serve it warm with optional toppings like more cilantro or crumbled cotija cheese for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy!

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Chili

Street Corn Chicken Chili is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Toppings

• Fresh Cilantro: Add a burst of flavor and freshness with chopped cilantro on top.
• Crumbled Cotija Cheese: This salty cheese pairs beautifully with the chili, adding creaminess and depth.
• Chili Powder: Sprinkle extra chili powder for those who like an added kick.
• Lime Wedges: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the chili for a zesty finish.

As a Wrap

• Tortilla Wraps: Serve the chili in soft tortillas for a fun wrap option, perfect for lunch or dinner.
• Cornbread Wraps: Use cornbread to create a unique wrap that complements the corn flavors in the chili.

In a Bowl

• Individual Bowls: Serve in individual bowls for a cozy presentation, topped with your choice of garnishes.
• Bread Bowls: For an impressive presentation, serve in hollowed-out bread bowls.

How to Perfect Street Corn Chicken Chili

To make sure your Street Corn Chicken Chili is exceptional every time, consider these tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and ripe jalapeños add vibrant flavors that frozen or canned ingredients may lack.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the number of jalapeños or hot sauce based on your spice preference, ensuring everyone enjoys it.
• Let It Simmer: Allow the chili to simmer longer for deeper flavors; just be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try different toppings like avocado or tortilla strips for added texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Chicken Chili

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

1. Cornbread: A classic side that complements the chili perfectly; try it warm with butter.
2. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices balances the richness of the chili.
3. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adds freshness and pairs well with the spiciness of the chili.
4. Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips provide a satisfying contrast when dipped into the chili.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw can cool down the heat while adding crunch to each bite.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred veggies bring a smoky flavor that complements the dish nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Street Corn Chicken Chili, avoiding common mistakes can enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Using too much salt: Over-seasoning can ruin the balance of flavors. Start with a pinch and adjust as needed.
• Not cooking the chicken thoroughly: Ensure the ground chicken is fully cooked to avoid any food safety issues. Use a meat thermometer if necessary.
• Skipping the fresh ingredients: Fresh cilantro and lime juice add brightness. Don’t omit these for the best flavor.
• Cooking at too high a heat: Cooking on high can lead to burnt bits. Stick to medium heat for even cooking.
• Ignoring personal taste: Tailor the spice level to your preference. Taste as you go to create your ideal chili.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Street Corn Chicken Chili

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Street Corn Chicken Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in a baking dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low while stirring until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Street Corn Chicken Chili that may help you enjoy this dish even more.

How spicy is Street Corn Chicken Chili?

The spiciness depends on how many jalapenos you use. Adjust according to your tolerance for heat.

Can I make Street Corn Chicken Chili ahead of time?

Yes! This chili tastes even better when made ahead. Just store it in the fridge or freeze it as mentioned above.

What toppings can I use for Street Corn Chicken Chili?

Popular toppings include crumbled cotija cheese, extra cilantro, lime wedges, and a sprinkle of chili powder.

Can I substitute ground chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or beef as alternatives if desired.

Final Thoughts

Street Corn Chicken Chili is an amazing blend of comfort food flavors that everyone will love. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients and toppings. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!