Street Corn Chicken Chili

Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings together the creamy goodness of Mexican street corn and the hearty warmth of white chicken chili. This one-pot dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or lively gatherings with friends. The combination of spices, fresh ingredients, and tender chicken makes it a standout recipe that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe can be on your table in less than an hour.
• Flavorful: The blend of spices, fresh corn, and creamy ingredients creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile that excites the taste buds.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it as an appetizer at parties. Toppings allow for customization based on personal preferences.
• Hearty & Filling: Packed with protein and vegetables, this chili is nutritious while still being comforting and fulfilling.
• Perfect for Leftovers: The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious when reheated.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Street Corn Chicken Chili, gather your kitchen tools to 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: This is essential for cooking all the ingredients together evenly while providing enough space to stir without spilling.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife helps you chop vegetables quickly and safely, ensuring even cuts for optimal cooking.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot; it allows you to break apart the chicken as it cooks.

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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 Chili Mixture

• 6 to 8 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 pounds ground chicken
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon cumin

For the Liquid Ingredients

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 3/4 cup your favorite beef broth (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chicken base (I used Better Than Bouillon)

For Flavoring

• a few dashes hot sauce of choice
• 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

Start by setting a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil, diced onion, jalapeños, corn kernels, kosher salt, and pepper. Cook for about 7 to 9 minutes until softened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Mixture

Next, add minced 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 it’s fully cooked.

Step 3: Add Broths and Simmer

Now it’s time to add the chicken broth and optional beef broth along with the chicken base. Bring everything to a boil then reduce heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes. Afterward, mix in hot sauce, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until heated through.

Step 4: Final Touches

Taste your chili for seasoning; you can adjust with additional chili powder, kosher salt, or pepper if needed. Serve hot with optional toppings like extra cilantro, crumbled cotija cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder, or lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your Street Corn Chicken Chili!

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Chili

Serving Street Corn Chicken Chili can elevate your meal experience. This dish is not only hearty but also packed with vibrant flavors. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch.

Add Creamy Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream provides creaminess that balances the spice.
• Crumbled Cheese: Cotija or feta cheese adds a salty, tangy contrast to the chili.

Serve with Crunchy Extras

• Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside crispy tortilla chips for dipping or scooping.
• Cornbread: A slice of cornbread complements the chili’s flavors beautifully.

Pair with Fresh Sides

• Lime Wedges: Fresh lime wedges can brighten up each bite when squeezed over the chili.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices offer richness and a smooth texture.

How to Perfect Street Corn Chicken Chili

Perfecting your Street Corn Chicken Chili is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and high-quality chicken make a significant difference in flavor.
• Adjust Spiciness: Tailor the heat by adjusting the amount of jalapenos or adding more hot sauce.
• Simmer for Flavor: Allow the chili to simmer longer for deeper flavors; let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes if time permits.
• Taste as You Go: Regularly taste the chili during cooking to adjust seasonings like salt and spices.
• Experiment with Broths: Mixing chicken broth with beef broth enhances richness; choose based on your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Chicken Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Street Corn Chicken Chili can create a complete meal. Here are some great options that complement this delicious dish.

1. Cornbread: Sweet or savory cornbread pairs well, offering a delightful contrast in texture.
2. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices adds fullness to your meal while absorbing flavors from the chili.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies bring freshness and smokiness, enhancing overall taste.
4. Garden Salad: A light salad with citrus vinaigrette balances the rich chili nicely.
5. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds a cooling effect alongside spiciness from the chili.
6. Quesadillas: Cheese-filled quesadillas provide a cheesy, crunchy companion that’s perfect for dipping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Street Corn Chicken Chili even better. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough salt or spices can lead to a bland dish. Always taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.
• Overcooking the chicken: If you cook the chicken too long, it can become dry. Monitor cooking time closely and remove from heat when fully cooked but still juicy.
• Ignoring the broth: Using low-quality broth can affect the flavor. Opt for a good-quality chicken broth for a richer taste.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Stale or old vegetables can alter the flavor and texture. Always choose fresh corn and spices for the best results.
• Neglecting toppings: Skipping toppings means missing out on added flavor and texture. Don’t forget cilantro, lime wedges, or cheese for that extra touch.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Let the chili cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Street Corn Chicken Chili

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the chili will expand when frozen.

Reheating Street Corn Chicken Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place chili in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between each interval until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Street Corn Chicken Chili:

What is Street Corn Chicken Chili?

Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delicious one-pot dish that combines flavors of white chicken chili with grilled street corn, making it hearty and satisfying.

Can I make Street Corn Chicken Chili ahead of time?

Yes! This chili tastes even better after sitting for a day, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

What toppings are best for Street Corn Chicken Chili?

Popular toppings include crumbled cheese, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and extra chili powder for added spice.

How do I customize my Street Corn Chicken Chili?

You can add black beans, diced tomatoes, or different spices based on your preference. Feel free to adjust ingredients to suit your taste!

Final Thoughts

Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delightful blend of flavors that makes it perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients and toppings. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how easy it is to make and how delicious it tastes!