Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

We’re excited to share our Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe! This dish beautifully combines the creamy, zesty flavors of Mexican street corn with hearty chicken chili. Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, this easy chicken chili is both satisfying and full of flavor. Its vibrant ingredients make it a standout dish that will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a bold taste experience.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, even novice cooks can whip up this delicious chili.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your garnishes to match your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this chili fits right in.
• Comforting and Filling: It’s a hearty meal that warms you up from the inside out.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help you prepare and cook the dish efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking large quantities evenly without spills.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and meat.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in ingredient amounts for balanced flavors.

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Ingredients

We’re combining the best elements of White Chicken Chili and classic Mexican Street Corn. This simple Chicken Chili Recipe is loaded with zesty flavor!

For the Base

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 large sweet onion, (peeled and chopped)
• 4-5 cloves garlic, (minced)
• 1 large jalapeno, (seeded and chopped)
• 1/3 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4-1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Chili

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast
• 7 ounces chopped green chiles, (mild or medium)
• 4 cups fresh corn cut off the cob (about 4-5 cobs)

For Creaminess

• 2 cups sour cream
• 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese

Thickener & Seasoning

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 lime, (juiced)
• Salt and pepper

Possible Garnishes

• More cilantro or shredded cheese
• Avocado slices
• Lime wedges
• Tortilla chips

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Set a large 6-8 quart soup pot (or Dutch oven) over medium heat.
– Add the olive oil and chopped onions.
– Sauté the onions for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
– Next, add in the minced garlic, chopped jalapeno, cilantro, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper.
– Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken broth, whole chicken breasts, and chopped green chiles to the pot.
– Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper.
– Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 3: Prepare the Corn

While simmering, cut the corn off the cobs and set aside.

Step 4: Shred Chicken & Add Corn

Use tongs to remove cooked chicken from the pot.
– Add the corn to the pot and stir well.
– Chop or shred the cooked chicken breasts before placing them back into the pot.

Step 5: Stir in Creaminess

Stir in sour cream and shredded cheese into the chili.
– Sprinkle cornstarch over top while stirring rapidly to avoid clumps.

Step 6: Final Simmer

Simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes until chili base thickens.
– Turn off heat and stir in lime juice before serving hot with your favorite garnishes.

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

Serving your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili can elevate your dining experience. This flavorful dish pairs well with various garnishes and sides that enhance its taste and presentation.

Garnish Options

• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and a pop of green color.
• Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of cheese, like pepper jack or cheddar, enhances creaminess.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado provides a rich texture that balances the chili’s spiciness.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens the flavors and adds freshness.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips offer a delightful contrast to the creamy chili.

Serving Bowls

• Soup Bowls: Use deep bowls to hold generous servings of chili.
• Mason Jars: For casual gatherings, serve in mason jars for a rustic touch.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

To make your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili truly exceptional, follow these helpful tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs will deliver the most vibrant flavors.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by altering the amount of jalapeno and cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
• Thicken with Care: Stir in cornstarch gradually while mixing to avoid clumps in your chili.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chili to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to try other toppings like diced red onion or sour cream variations for added flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

Complementing your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili with delicious side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with chili, adding a comforting touch.
2. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices balances the richness of the chili.
3. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole brings a fresh, cool contrast to spicy chili flavors.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds texture and helps cut through the richness of the dish.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection add color and nutrition to your plate.
6. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): This classic street food complements the chili’s corn elements while adding an extra layer of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are some common mistakes and tips on how to avoid them.

• Bold timing errors: Not cooking the chicken long enough can result in undercooked meat. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before shredding.
• Bold ingredient substitutions: Using the wrong type of broth can alter the flavor significantly. Stick to chicken broth for the best results.
• Bold overcooking corn: Adding corn too early can make it mushy. Wait until after the chicken is cooked to add fresh corn for optimal texture.
• Bold neglecting seasoning adjustments: Everyone’s taste is different. Always taste and adjust seasonings like salt and cayenne pepper based on your preference.
• Bold rushing the thickening process: If you don’t stir in cornstarch quickly, clumps can form. Make sure to sprinkle it in while stirring rapidly for a smooth texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chili in an airtight container.
• It will keep for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

• Allow chili to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags and label with the date; it can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat at 350°F and heat in a covered dish for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.

How do I make my Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe spicier?

To increase the heat, add more chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce during cooking.

Can I use frozen corn in this recipe?

Yes, frozen corn works well! Just add it at the same time you would fresh corn; no need to thaw beforehand.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream if you’re looking for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.

How can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe?

Feel free to add beans or other vegetables such as bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor!

Is this chili suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This chili stores well and is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe combines vibrant flavors with hearty ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various toppings or ingredients based on your preferences. Give this delicious recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!