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The aroma of spices warming on the stove can instantly transport me to my favorite street food market, where vendors proudly serve up vibrant dishes. This Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe marries the beloved flavors of zesty Mexican street corn with hearty chicken chili, creating an experience that’s just a spoonful away. What makes this dish a go-to weeknight winner is its quick-prep nature and comforting, gluten-free goodness that warms the soul. Plus, it’s perfect for gathering around the dinner table or bringing a crowd together during game night. Are you ready to dive into a bowl that combines rich creaminess with a hint of spice and a pop of freshness? Let’s get cooking!
Why Is This Chili a Must-Try?
Comforting and Hearty: This Street Corn Chicken Chili is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Its cozy blend of flavors will chase away any chill in the air.
Quick to Prepare: You’ll love how fast this recipe comes together! In under an hour, you can serve a delicious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
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Versatile Ingredients: Substitute the ground chicken with turkey or tofu, depending on your dietary needs! Check out my Healthy Sesame Chicken for a different twist.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Packed with sweet corn, zesty lime, and savory spices, this chili is sure to impress family and friends at your next gathering.
Easy Storage: Leftovers? No problem! Store in an airtight container and enjoy for days—it gets even better with time!
Get ready to savor every bite of this delightful dish!
Street Corn Chicken Chili Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need for a delightful Street Corn Chicken Chili!
For the Base
- Olive Oil – Adds richness; substitute with canola or avocado oil for a lighter option.
- Diced Onion – Provides base sweetness; yellow or white onions are perfect.
- Jalapeños – Adds heat; use fewer for milder chili or remove seeds.
- Corn Kernels – Essential for sweetness and texture; fresh, frozen, or canned corn can be used.
- Kosher Salt & Pepper – Enhances flavor; adjust according to taste.
- Minced Garlic – Adds aromatic depth; fresh garlic is recommended.
For the Chili
- Ground Chicken – The main protein source; substitute with ground turkey or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Chili Powder – Gives warmth and spice; adjust for your preferred heat level.
- Paprika – Adds smokiness; make sure to use sweet paprika for a balanced flavor.
- Cumin – Provides earthiness and complexity; essential for a hearty flavor.
- Chicken Broth – Acts as the cooking liquid; low-sodium versions work best.
- Chicken Base – Enhances broth flavor; can replace with bouillon cubes or omit entirely.
For the Creamy Finish
- Sour Cream – Adds creaminess and tang; non-dairy alternatives are great for lighter variation.
- Chopped Cilantro – Fresh herbal note; omit if unavailable or substitute with parsley.
- Fresh Lime Juice – Brightens flavors; it’s essential for the dish, so don’t skip it!
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s create this cozy and hearty Street Corn Chicken Chili together!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Base
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add 1 diced onion and 2 chopped jalapeños, stirring occasionally for about 7–9 minutes until they soften and turn translucent. Then mix in 1 cup of corn kernels, followed by a pinch of kosher salt and pepper to enhance the flavors, allowing the mixture to become fragrant and golden.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Next, stir in 3 minced garlic cloves along with 1 pound of ground chicken, 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1 teaspoon of cumin. Continue cooking for about 7–9 minutes, ensuring the chicken is fully browned and crumbly. Stir frequently, breaking up any clumps, until you no longer see pink, and the spices are aromatic, setting a warm base for your Street Corn Chicken Chili.
Step 3: Add the Liquid
Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and add 1 tablespoon of chicken base, stirring well to combine everything. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a robust boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving the chili a rich, hearty consistency.
Step 4: Stir in Creaminess
After the simmering time, it’s time to add the final touches. Stir in ½ cup of sour cream, ¼ cup of chopped cilantro, and the juice of 1 fresh lime. Let the chili cook for an additional 5–10 minutes on low heat until everything is creamy and heated through. The vibrant colors should pop, and the aroma will be irresistible and warm.
Step 5: Final Touches and Serve
Taste your Street Corn Chicken Chili and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or hot sauce as desired. Once perfectly seasoned, serve the chili hot, garnished with extra cilantro or lime wedges for a burst of freshness. Enjoy the hearty aroma and flavors that come together in this comforting dish that is sure to please your family and friends!
What to Serve with Street Corn Chicken Chili
This creamy chili bursts with flavor, making it perfect for pairing with sides that elevate your meal.
- Buttered Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet, it complements the chili’s spices and adds a delightful texture to your dining experience.
- Crunchy Tortilla Chips: These add a satisfying crunch! Serve them alongside for scooping or as a crunchy topping.
- Simple Green Salad: A light, fresh salad served with a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess, cleansing your palate beautifully.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado enhances the chili’s richness and adds a smooth, buttery texture that pairs wonderfully.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy and seasoned rice soaks up the chili, creating a hearty and filling combination that feels like a comforting hug.
- Spicy Pickled Vegetables: A tangy crunch from pickled jalapeños or carrots offers an exciting zesty lift, brightening up each spoonful of chili.
Savor every bite by combining these delicious sides with your Street Corn Chicken Chili!
How to Store and Freeze Street Corn Chicken Chili
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure to cool the chili to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chili in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Leave space at the top to allow for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: Thaw the chili in the fridge overnight before reheating. Gently warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding chicken broth if needed to adjust the thickness.
Leftover Flavor: The Street Corn Chicken Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld, making leftovers something to look forward to!
Street Corn Chicken Chili Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Street Corn Chicken Chili and customize it to your liking with these simple variations!
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Dairy-Free: Swap sour cream for coconut milk or cashew cream for a deliciously creamy, vegan-friendly finish. Embrace the rich flavors of coconut that will complement the spices so wonderfully.
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Vegetarian Option: Replace ground chicken with crumbled tofu or black beans for a plant-based delight. The chili will still be hearty and satisfying, ensuring everyone feels included at the dinner table.
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Added Heat: Spice things up by adding diced serrano peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. This variation will be loved by the heat seekers among your friends and family!
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S smoky Twist: Stir in chipotle in adobo sauce for a smoky layer of flavor. The warmth and depth this adds will make each spoonful irresistible and take your chili to a new level.
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Flavorful Garnishes: Instead of chopped cilantro, try topping the chili with green onions or avocado for a creamier texture. Both will contrast beautifully with the chili’s richness and add a fresh zing!
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Corn Variations: Experiment with roasted corn for an extra layer of sweetness and flavor. A slightly charred taste from roasting can transform this already stellar dish into something extraordinary.
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Taco-Inspired: Serve your chili in taco shells or on nacho chips for a fun twist. Add an assortment of toppings, including cheese, jalapeños, and diced tomatoes, to create a taco-bar atmosphere.
For more mouth-watering chicken recipes, check out my Firecracker Chicken Stir or try the flavorful White Chicken Chili for a delightful variation. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Expert Tips for Street Corn Chicken Chili
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Thicker Texture: For a heartier chili, reduce the amount of chicken broth initially added. You can always add more if needed later.
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Fresh vs. Frozen Corn: Fresh corn enhances flavor dramatically, but frozen or canned corn works well too. Just ensure they’re well-drained for the best results in your Street Corn Chicken Chili.
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Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, remove the seeds from jalapeños before adding them, or use less chili powder.
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Slow Cooker Option: For a leisurely meal prep, sauté the onions and chicken, then transfer to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, adding creaminess ingredients at the end.
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Garnish with Liveliness: For an extra burst of flavor, don’t skip the lime juice and cilantro. They elevate the whole dish, making your chili fresh and vibrant!
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Storage Made Easy: Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer, deepening the flavors over time.
Make Ahead Options
These Street Corn Chicken Chili are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the onions, jalapeños, and garlic, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can cook the ground chicken with the spices, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours to enhance the flavor. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients and chicken with the broth in a pot, bringing it to a boil, and follow through with adding the creaminess from the sour cream and lime juice. This way, you’ll enjoy all the comforting flavors without the fuss on busy weeknights!
Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe FAQs
What type of corn is best for Street Corn Chicken Chili?
Absolutely! Fresh corn brings the best flavor and texture to your chili, but if fresh isn’t available, frozen or canned corn can work just as well. Just make sure to drain canned corn thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
How long can I store leftovers of Street Corn Chicken Chili?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to let the chili cool down to room temperature before sealing it to help maintain freshness.
Can I freeze Street Corn Chicken Chili?
Yes, you can! Freeze the chili in an airtight container or zip-top freezer bag for up to 3 months. Leave a little space at the top of the container to allow for expansion as it freezes. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stove, adding broth if needed for consistency.
What are some common issues I might encounter while making this chili?
If your chili is too thin, you can thicken it by reducing the chicken broth or simmering it longer to allow excess liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, if it’s too thick, simply stir in some more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Is this Street Corn Chicken Chili gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is gluten-free as all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. However, always double-check the labels of your broth and spices to ensure that no added gluten is present. Enjoy without worry!
What can I substitute for sour cream if I have dietary restrictions?
Very! You can use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist, or opt for non-dairy yogurt alternatives if you’re avoiding dairy. Additionally, you can omit it entirely for a lighter version without losing too much creaminess.
Bold and Creamy Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe to Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and 2 chopped jalapeños, stirring occasionally for about 7–9 minutes until softened.
- Mix in 1 cup of corn kernels, followed by kosher salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
- Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves with 1 pound of ground chicken, 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1 teaspoon of cumin for 7–9 minutes, until chicken is browned.
- Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and add 1 tablespoon of chicken base, stirring well to combine. Increase heat to boil, then reduce to medium-low and let simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes.
- After simmering, stir in ½ cup of sour cream, ¼ cup of chopped cilantro, and the juice of 1 lime, cooking for an additional 5–10 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or hot sauce. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro or lime wedges.
