Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, then you’ve landed in the right spot! Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili is one of those recipes that makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a warm blanket on a chilly evening. It’s creamy, comforting, and bursting with vibrant flavors that dance on your taste buds. This chili is not just a meal; it’s an experience, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where everyone gathers around the table.

What makes this recipe even better is how simple it is to whip up. It’s a great alternative to traditional beef chili and will surely become your new go-to dish. Whether you’re serving it at a casual dinner or a festive occasion, this delightful chili will be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a handful of simple steps, you can have this hearty chili ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the creamy texture and zesty flavors, making it perfect for all ages.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can easily prepare this chili ahead of time and reheat it for quick meals during the week.
• Versatile toppings: Customize each bowl with toppings like avocado or tortilla strips to suit everyone’s tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create this delicious dish. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store!

For the Chili Base

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 1 jalapeno, diced
• 4 cups chicken bone broth
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Creaminess & Flavor

• 1.5 cups sour cream
• 1/2 cup shredded monterey jack cheese (or a blend)
• 2 cups frozen sweet white corn
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime

For Thickening & Serving

• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons water
• Olive oil for sautéing
• Cotija cheese for topping
• Bacon crumbles (optional)
• Tortilla strips (for crunch)
• Sliced avocado (for freshness)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or even cooked beans for a vegetarian twist.
• Add more veggies: Throw in some diced bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
• Change up the spices: Experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or cumin for an exciting flavor kick.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add extra jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up!

How to Make Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add in the chopped onion and diced jalapeno. Sauté until the onion softens—this step helps release their natural sweetness and builds layers of flavor for your chili. Once they’re fragrant and tender, toss in the minced garlic along with dried oregano and chili powder. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Now it’s time to add some depth! Pour in your chicken bone broth along with the seasoned chicken breasts. Sprinkle in kosher salt and black pepper. Bring this beautiful mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes until your chicken is fully cooked through—this keeps all those delicious flavors locked inside.

Step 3: Shred & Mix It All Together

Once your chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and shred it using two forks—don’t worry; it’s easier than it sounds! Return that fluffy shredded chicken back into the pot along with sour cream, shredded cheese, corn, cilantro, and lime juice. Mix everything together until well combined; this will create that dreamy creamy base we all love.

Step 4: Thicken Up Your Chili

To give your chili that perfect consistency, combine cornstarch with water in a small bowl first. Give it a good stir before adding it into the pot—this ensures there are no lumps! Simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes while stirring occasionally until everything thickens beautifully.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Finally, divide your delicious Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili into bowls. Top each serving with crumbles of cotija cheese, crispy bacon (if using), crunchy tortilla strips, and fresh avocado slices. Dive right in—you deserve this comforting bowl of goodness!

Pro Tips for Making Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili

Creating the perfect Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili is all about balance and flavor, and with these pro tips, you’ll be on your way to chili perfection!

• Choose the right chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts ensures a tender and juicy texture. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option—just shred and add it in at the end!

• Don’t skip the aromatics: Sautéing onions, garlic, and jalapeños at the beginning builds a flavorful base for your chili. This step is crucial for enhancing the overall taste.

• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a milder chili, remove the seeds from the jalapeño before dicing. For an extra kick, add more chili powder or even a dash of cayenne pepper.

• Let it simmer: Allowing your chili to simmer uncovered for a bit helps thicken it up beautifully. This not only improves its consistency but also intensifies the flavors.

• Experiment with toppings: While cotija cheese and bacon crumbles are delicious, feel free to get creative! Fresh lime wedges or diced fresh tomatoes can add brightness and freshness.

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili

Serving this delightful chili is an opportunity to make it even more special! Here are some ideas to present your dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Add a fresh crunch and a mild onion flavor that complements the creamy chili.
• Dollops of guacamole: Bring creaminess and a rich taste that pairs perfectly with the zesty flavors in your chili.
• Crispy tortilla strips: These add texture and a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the smoothness of the soup.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This sweet and fluffy bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of your chili. Its subtle sweetness balances out the spiciness beautifully.
• Mexican-style rice: Flavored with tomatoes, garlic, and spices, this rice dish adds heartiness to your meal while enhancing its Mexican flair.
• Guacamole salad: A fresh mix of avocados, tomatoes, red onions, and lime juice offers a refreshing contrast to the warm chili.
• Chips and salsa: A crunchy side option that provides an extra layer of flavor. Choose a medium or mild salsa depending on your spice preference!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to enjoy a hearty bowl of Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili! Perfectly satisfying for lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to become one of your favorites. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and enjoy the comforting flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious chili:

Storing Leftovers

• Let the chili cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• If you’re planning to eat it within a couple of days, you can keep it in the pot covered with a lid.

Freezing

• Allow the chili to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this recipe:

Can I use other types of chicken for Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili?

Yes! You can use shredded rotisserie chicken or even turkey as an alternative. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili spicier?

To amp up the spice, add more jalapenos or include diced serrano peppers. You can also sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or hot sauce during cooking.

What can I serve with Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili?

Cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh garden salad make great side dishes that complement this hearty chili!

Can I make Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with white beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra veggies for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you love making this Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili as much as I do! It’s truly special because it’s not only comforting but also packed with vibrant flavors that bring a little fiesta to your table. Enjoy every bite of this creamy goodness, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or any tweaks you made along the way. Happy cooking!