Street Corn Chicken Chili

Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delightful fusion of white chicken chili and the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively gathering with friends. The combination of tender ground chicken, fresh corn, and zesty spices creates a rich and comforting bowl that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Fusion: This dish combines the best of both worlds, offering the richness of chili with the sweet crunch of street corn.
• One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy easy cleanup with this simple one-pot recipe that makes cooking a breeze.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its delicious taste and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main dish or pair it with your favorite sides for an impressive meal.
• Quick Prep Time: Get this comforting chili on the table in under an hour!

Tools and Preparation

To make Street Corn Chicken Chili, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything comes together smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Soup Pot
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• Wooden Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Soup Pot: A spacious pot allows you to cook all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and prepping ingredients efficiently.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife helps you quickly dice onions and chop other veggies.
• Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot, ensuring even mixing of flavors.

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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 Mix

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

For the Broth

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 3/4 cup your favorite beef broth (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chicken base (I used Better Than Bouillon)
• a few dashes hot sauce of choice

For Finishing Touches

• 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 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.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Add the garlic, ground chicken, chili powder, paprika, cumin, along with more kosher salt and pepper. Cook for another 7 to 9 minutes until the chicken is browned. Stir regularly and break apart any clumps with a spatula.

Step 3: Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and optional beef broth along with the chicken base. Bring to a boil. Then reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes.

Step 4: Final Touches

Add hot sauce, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until everything is heated through. Taste for seasoning; adjust with more chili powder or salt as needed.

Serve hot with your choice of optional toppings like extra cilantro or crumbled cotija cheese for added flavor!

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Chili

Serving Street Corn Chicken Chili can be a delightful experience, and there are many ways to enhance this dish. From garnishes to sides, consider these serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top for an added burst of flavor.
• Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side to allow guests to add fresh lime juice according to their taste.

Add Creamy Elements

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess that balances the spices.
• Avocado Slices: Top with avocado slices for a rich texture and additional healthy fats.

Spice it Up

• Hot Sauce: Provide a selection of hot sauces for those who enjoy extra heat.
• Chili Powder: Offer chili powder as a sprinkle option for more flavor enhancement.

Serve with Crunch

• Tortilla Chips: Accompany your chili with crispy tortilla chips for dipping or crunching.
• Cornbread: A slice of cornbread can complement the flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Street Corn Chicken Chili

Perfecting your Street Corn Chicken Chili is easy with a few simple tips. These suggestions will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and vegetables enhance the overall taste of your chili.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Taste as you go and adjust the amount of jalapenos and chili powder based on your preference.
• Simmer Longer: Allowing the chili to simmer longer helps meld flavors, resulting in a richer taste.
• Experiment with Broths: Try different combinations of chicken broth and plant-based broth for unique flavors.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chili to sit for about 30 minutes after cooking can improve its flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Chicken Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Street Corn Chicken Chili can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Cornbread: This sweet and fluffy bread complements the spicy chili perfectly.
2. Mexican Rice: Flavored rice adds another layer of texture and goes well with chili.
3. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole offers a refreshing contrast to the spices in the chili.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred veggies provide a smoky flavor that pairs nicely with the dish.
5. Crispy Tortilla Chips: These chips add crunch and are perfect for dipping into the chili.
6. Simple Salad: A fresh salad with lime vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the richness of the chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your Street Corn Chicken Chili turns out perfectly every time.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your ingredients properly can result in bland chili. Always taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using stale or frozen corn can affect the flavor of your dish. Fresh corn enhances the taste and texture of the chili.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Cook until just done, then mix in other ingredients for a tender result.
• Ignoring simmering time: Rushing through the simmering phase can prevent the flavors from melding. Allow at least 25 minutes for the best flavor development.
• Neglecting toppings: Skipping toppings means missing out on added flavor and texture. Garnish with cilantro, lime wedges, or crumbled cheese for extra enjoyment.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Street Corn Chicken Chili in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Street Corn Chicken Chili

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Street Corn Chicken Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until hot. Start with 2 minutes on high and add more time as needed.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What is Street Corn Chicken Chili?

Street Corn Chicken Chili is a flavorful blend of white chicken chili and Mexican street corn, creating a delightful one-pot meal that is hearty and satisfying.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! While this recipe uses ground chicken, you can substitute it with turkey or beef based on your preference.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To increase spiciness, add more jalapeno peppers or include diced serrano peppers. You can also use a hotter variety of hot sauce.

Can I make Street Corn Chicken Chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! This chili tastes even better after sitting overnight as the flavors meld together. Just reheat before serving.

What toppings work best for this chili?

Popular toppings include cilantro, crumbled cotija cheese, avocado slices, and lime wedges. Feel free to customize based on your taste!

Final Thoughts

Street Corn Chicken Chili is not only delicious but also versatile; you can adapt it to suit your preferences. Whether you enjoy it spicy or mild, this recipe offers endless customization options. Give it a try and savor its rich flavors!