Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

Street Corn Chicken Chili combines the flavors of zesty Mexican street corn and hearty chicken chili in one vibrant, crowd-pleasing dish. This creamy, slightly spicy chili is packed with sweet corn, savory ground chicken, bright cilantro, tangy lime, and warming spices. It’s quick to prepare, bold in flavor, and perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe can be made in just over an hour.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a rich flavor profile that pleases every palate.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with rice or tortillas for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this chili fits right in.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from ground chicken and fiber from corn, it’s a nutritious choice.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking of all ingredients without overcrowding.
• Chef’s knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and efficient, ensuring uniform pieces for better cooking.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving the chili into bowls without spills.

Ingredients

Main 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
• 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

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, then the diced onion, diced jalapenos, corn kernels, kosher salt, and pepper. Cook for 7 to 9 minutes, 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, and additional salt and pepper as needed. Cook for another 7 to 9 minutes while breaking apart the chicken until it is browned.

Step 3: Simmer the Chili

Pour in the chicken broth and mix in the chicken base. Increase heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce to medium-low heat and simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until thickened.

Step 4: Add Creaminess

Stir in hot sauce, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until creamy and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.

Step 5: Serve

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

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

Serving Street Corn Chicken Chili is all about enhancing the rich flavors and textures of this delicious dish. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will take your chili experience to the next level.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herby flavor that brightens each bite.
• Crumbled Cotija Cheese: Provides a creamy and slightly salty touch that complements the spices in the chili.
• Lime Wedges: Squeeze some fresh lime juice over your bowl for an extra zing.

Pair with Crispy Tortilla Chips

• Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside crispy tortilla chips for dipping or scooping, offering a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the creamy chili.

Offer Additional Toppings

• Chili Powder: Sprinkle extra chili powder on top for those who like an added kick.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can make it even creamier and balance the spice.

Enjoy with Bread

• Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread on the side for a classic pairing that soaks up the chili’s richness.

How to Perfect Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

Perfecting your Street Corn Chicken Chili takes just a few handy tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs enhance flavor compared to canned or frozen options.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify jalapeno and hot sauce amounts based on your heat preference; taste as you go!
• Simmer Longer: Allowing the chili to simmer longer deepens flavors, making it more delicious.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try different toppings like avocado or diced red onion for variety and additional textures.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

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

1. Cornbread: A classic choice that pairs well, offering sweetness and texture.
2. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked in tomato broth makes a flavorful complement.
3. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness and balances the spice.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies provide a smoky contrast to the chili’s flavors.
5. Avocado Salad: A refreshing salad made with ripe avocados and lime dressing brightens up each bite.
6. Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas can be dipped into the chili for a satisfying combination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Street Corn Chicken Chili, it’s easy to miss a step or two. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Boldly skip measuring spices. Accurate measurements ensure a balanced flavor. Use measuring spoons for spices like chili powder and cumin.
• Boldly overlook the importance of fresh ingredients. Fresh corn and herbs enhance taste significantly. Choose fresh over frozen or canned when possible.
• Boldly ignore simmering time. Allowing the chili to simmer helps blend flavors deeply. Don’t rush this step; aim for at least 25 minutes.
• Boldly forget to taste as you go. Adjusting seasoning throughout cooking ensures a delicious final dish. Taste at various stages and modify accordingly.
• Boldly use low-quality broth. A flavorful broth is key to a rich chili. Opt for good-quality chicken broth or make your own.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe pot, cover, and heat until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe that might help you further.

How can I customize the Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe?

You can add beans for more protein, swap ground chicken for turkey, or toss in different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes! Increase the number of jalapenos or add cayenne pepper to kick up the heat level according to your preference.

How do I thicken my Street Corn Chicken Chili?

If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer longer without a lid or stir in some cornmeal towards the end of cooking.

What toppings work well with Street Corn Chicken Chili?

Consider adding crumbled cotija cheese, extra cilantro, avocado slices, or crispy tortilla strips for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that brings excitement to any meal. Its creamy texture and vibrant ingredients make it versatile enough for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or toppings for a unique twist every time!

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

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Street Corn Chicken Chili, a delightful fusion of zesty Mexican street corn and hearty chicken chili. This creamy and slightly spicy dish features tender ground chicken, sweet corn, and fresh ingredients like cilantro and lime, making it an irresistible choice for any dinner table. Perfect for weeknight meals or entertaining guests, this chili is quick to prepare yet bold in flavor. With versatile serving options and healthy elements, it’s sure to please every palate.

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Ingredients

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• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 to 4 jalapeno peppers, diced
• 6 to 8 ears corn on the cob, kernels removed
• 6 to 8 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 pounds ground chicken
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup chopped cilantro
• 3 tablespoons lime juice

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion, jalapenos, corn kernels, salt, and pepper for about 7-9 minutes until softened.
2. Add minced garlic and ground chicken; sprinkle with chili powder, paprika, cumin, and more salt and pepper. Cook for another 7-9 minutes until browned.
3. Pour in chicken broth and stir in chicken base. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until thickened.
4. Stir in hot sauce, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until creamy.
5. Serve hot in bowls with optional toppings like extra cilantro or crumbled cheese.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 370
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 90mg