Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings together the essence of zesty Mexican street corn and hearty chicken chili. Ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this dish stands out with its creamy texture, slight spiciness, and vibrant ingredients. Packed with sweet corn, savory ground chicken, and fresh cilantro, it delivers a bold flavor profile that will please any crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just over an hour, you can enjoy this delicious chili without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices, lime juice, and fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering taste experience that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests, this chili can be easily customized with your favorite toppings.
• Hearty and Satisfying: With ground chicken and sweet corn, this recipe is both filling and nutritious, making it a wholesome meal option.
• One-Pot Wonder: Easy cleanup is ensured since everything cooks in one pot—less mess and more time to enjoy your meal!

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Street Corn Chicken Chili, you’ll need some essential tools. Having these on hand will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: This tool allows you to cook everything in one place while providing enough space for the chili to simmer properly.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe, ensuring clean cuts for even cooking.
• Wooden spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot’s surface while helping to break apart the ground chicken.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

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 and black pepper, to taste

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
• 1 tablespoon chicken base (such as Better Than Bouillon)
• A few dashes hot sauce of choice

For Creaminess and Flavor

• 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 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 pepper. Cook for 7 to 9 minutes while stirring occasionally until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Stir in the minced garlic and ground chicken. Add the chili powder, paprika, cumin, along with additional salt and pepper as needed. Cook for another 7 to 9 minutes. Use a spatula to break apart the chicken as it browns and melds flavors with the aromatics.

Step 3: Simmer Together

Pour in the chicken broth and mix in the chicken base. Increase heat until it gently boils; then reduce to medium-low heat. Simmer uncovered for about 25 to 30 minutes allowing the chili to thicken while flavors develop.

Step 4: Add Creaminess

Stir in hot sauce, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes while stirring gently until creamy and well combined. Taste test then adjust seasoning with more chili powder or salt if desired.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Ladle chili into bowls. Garnish with extra cilantro, crumbled cotija cheese (if using), a sprinkle of chili powder, and lime wedges. Enjoy this vibrant Street Corn Chicken Chili hot!

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

Street Corn Chicken Chili is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal and impress your guests.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro on top for an aromatic touch.
• Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of tanginess.

Add Creamy Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream provides creaminess and balances the spices.
• Crumbled Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese adds a salty flavor that complements the chili well.

Pair with Crunchy Elements

• Tortilla Chips: Serve crispy tortilla chips on the side for dipping or as a crunchy topping.
• Cornbread: A slice of cornbread pairs beautifully with the chili’s flavors and adds a comforting element.

How to Perfect Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

To make this Street Corn Chicken Chili truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs elevate the taste, making your chili vibrant and flavorful.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the number of jalapeños based on your heat preference to ensure everyone enjoys it.
• Simmer Longer: Allowing the chili to simmer longer deepens flavors; just be sure to stir occasionally.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try different toppings like avocado or pickled onions for added texture and flavor.
• Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; it tastes even better the next day!

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Street Corn Chicken Chili can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Cornbread: This sweet, buttery bread is perfect for scooping up chili.
2. Crispy Tortilla Chips: Great for dipping into the chili or enjoying alongside it for added crunch.
3. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with spices can balance out the richness of the chili.
4. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds a smooth texture and fresh flavor contrast.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies such as zucchini or bell peppers offer a smoky taste that pairs well with chili.
6. Salad with Lime Dressing: A light salad dressed in lime vinaigrette provides freshness and balances out the hearty chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Street Corn Chicken Chili can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your dish properly can lead to bland flavors. Be sure to taste as you go and add salt, pepper, and spices as needed.
• Overcooking or undercooking the chicken: It’s important to cook the ground chicken thoroughly. Make sure it’s browned completely before adding broth to ensure safety and flavor.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using old or frozen corn can impact the dish’s freshness. Opt for fresh corn when possible for a sweeter flavor in your chili.
• Neglecting the toppings: Toppings enhance both flavor and presentation. Don’t skip garnishes like cilantro or lime, which can elevate your chili!
• Rushing the simmering process: Allowing your chili to simmer is crucial for developing depth in flavor. Don’t rush this step; give it time to meld together beautifully.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Remember to leave some space in containers for expansion.

Reheating Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make Street Corn Chicken Chili ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

What can I substitute for ground chicken?

You can use ground turkey or lean beef as alternatives if you prefer a different protein option.

How spicy is this Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe?

The spice level depends on how many jalapenos you include. Feel free to adjust according to your preference!

Can I add beans to this chili?

Absolutely! Black beans or kidney beans are great additions that enhance both flavor and nutrition.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes! You can replace chicken with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

This Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Feel free to customize it by adding extra vegetables, swapping proteins, or adjusting the spice levels. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!