Weβre excited to share our Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe that combines the best of White Chicken Chili and classic Mexican street corn. This dish is packed with zesty flavors and is perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or cozy nights at home. The unique blend of spices and fresh ingredients makes it a standout choice for any occasion.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Flavor: Each bowl is filled with the vibrant tastes of cumin, jalapeno, and fresh corn, making every bite satisfying.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a hearty soup or over rice for a filling meal. It works great for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
- Customizable Garnishes: Top it with cilantro, avocado, or tortilla chips to add your personal touch.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, this chili is both nutritious and delicious.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the essential tools that will make preparation easier. Having the right equipment on hand can streamline your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven: Ideal for simmering soups and chili evenly without sticking.
- Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and meats efficiently.
- Sharp Knife: Ensures clean cuts when preparing your ingredients, reducing prep time.
Ingredients
To prepare this delicious Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
Fresh Produce
- 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
- 4 cups fresh corn cut off the cob (about 4-5 cobs)
- 1 lime, (juiced)
Pantry Staples
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4-1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 7 ounces chopped green chiles, (mild or medium)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Dairy & Proteins
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
Seasonings & Garnishes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Possible garnishes: More cilantro or shredded cheese, avocado slices, lime wedges, or tortilla chips
How to Make Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
Step 1: SautΓ© the Aromatics
- Set a large soup pot over medium heat.
- Add the olive oil and chopped onions.
- SautΓ© for 2-3 minutes until they soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic, jalapeno, cilantro, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper.
- Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Pour in the chicken broth along with whole chicken breasts and chopped green chiles.
- Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Bring to a boil before reducing heat to simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 3: Prepare the Corn
- While the chicken cooks, cut the corn off the cobs and set aside.
Step 4: Shred Chicken & Add Corn
- Use tongs to remove cooked chicken from the pot.
- Stir in the fresh corn into the pot.
- Chop or shred the chicken breasts before returning them to the pot.
Step 5: Thicken the Chili
- Mix in sour cream and shredded cheese.
- Sprinkle cornstarch over top while stirring rapidly to avoid clumps.
- Allow it to simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes until thickened.
Step 6: Final Touches
- Turn off heat before stirring in lime juice.
- Ladle into bowls and serve hot with your favorite garnishes.
Enjoy your homemade Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili! Itβs sure to be a hit at any gathering!
How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
Serving your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili is as fun as making it. With a few creative garnishes and sides, you can elevate this dish to the next level of deliciousness. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience.
Fresh Cilantro and Cheese
- Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the chili for a burst of color and flavor.
- Add shredded cheese on top for extra creaminess.
Avocado Slices
- Serve with creamy avocado slices that add richness and healthy fats.
- You can also mash the avocado for a guacamole-style topping.
Lime Wedges
- Provide lime wedges on the side to squeeze over each bowl.
- This will brighten up the flavors in every spoonful.
Tortilla Chips
- Offer crispy tortilla chips for dipping.
- These provide a nice crunch that complements the chiliβs creamy texture.
How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
To ensure your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind. They will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs bring vibrant flavors compared to canned or frozen options.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference for a milder or spicier chili.
- Shred Chicken Properly: Use two forks to shred chicken finely for better distribution throughout the chili.
- Thicken Gradually: Add cornstarch slowly while stirring to avoid clumps and achieve a smooth consistency.
- Garnish Generously: Donβt skimp on garnishes like cilantro, cheese, or avocado for added flavor and presentation.
Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili can enhance your meal. Consider these tasty options that complement the main dish beautifully.
- Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread is perfect for scooping up chili.
- Mexican Rice: Flavored with tomatoes and spices, this rice adds heartiness to your meal.
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip provides a refreshing contrast to spicy chili.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables add a smoky flavor that pairs well with chili.
- Salad: A light salad with lime vinaigrette balances the richness of the chili.
- Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas make for a satisfying side that kids love too!
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and freshness alongside warm chili.
- Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa adds brightness and texture when served on top of chili or as a side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Creating the perfect Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili requires attention to detail. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:
- Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting spices like cumin and cayenne pepper can lead to bland chili. Always taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry and tough. Remove it from the pot once cooked through, then shred it.
- Using frozen corn: While convenient, frozen corn lacks the fresh flavor of corn cut off the cob. Always opt for fresh corn if possible for the best taste.
- Not stirring enough: Failing to stir in the sour cream and cheese properly can result in clumps. Stir rapidly after adding these ingredients to create a smooth texture.
- Ignoring texture: Aiming for a thick chili is key. If your chili is too thin, sprinkle cornstarch while stirring quickly to avoid lumps.
- Neglecting garnishes: Skipping garnishes like cilantro or avocado can miss out on extra flavor and visual appeal. Always dress up your chili before serving!

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover chili in an airtight container.
- It lasts for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
- The chili can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot throughout.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding the Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe:
What makes this Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili unique?
This recipe combines traditional white chicken chili elements with zesty Mexican street corn flavors, offering a delightful twist on classic chili.
Can I use different types of chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute boneless skinless chicken breast with thighs for a richer flavor or even shredded rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
How spicy is this Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe?
The spice level depends on the amount of jalapeno and cayenne pepper you add. Adjust these ingredients based on your heat preference.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute chicken with hearty vegetables such as zucchini and mushrooms or use plant-based proteins like chickpeas or lentils instead.
How do I customize my chili toppings?
Feel free to get creative! Top with avocado slices, additional cilantro, lime wedges, or tortilla chips for added flavor and crunch.
Final Thoughts
The Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe offers a delightful blend of creamy textures and vibrant flavors that make it a standout dish. Itβs incredibly versatile; you can customize it with your favorite toppings or adjust spices according to your taste. Give it a try; itβs sure to become a family favorite!

Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili
- Author: Adeline
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Discover the vibrant flavors of our Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe, a delightful fusion of zesty street corn and hearty chili that promises to warm your soul. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich broth infused with spices, fresh corn, and creamy toppings. Each bowl is not just a meal; itβs an experience filled with the comforting tastes of cumin, jalapeΓ±o, and cilantro. Plus, itβs easy to customize with your favorite garnishes like avocado or tortilla chips. Dive into this deliciously satisfying recipe thatβs sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 large sweet onion, peeled and chopped
- 4β5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large jalapeno, seeded and chopped
- 1/3 cup chopped cilantro
- 4 cups fresh corn cut off the cob (about 4β5 cobs)
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4β1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 7 ounces chopped green chiles, mild or medium
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Set a large soup pot over medium heat.
- Add the olive oil and chopped onions.
- SautΓ© for 2-3 minutes until they soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic, jalapeno, cilantro, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth along with whole chicken breasts and chopped green chiles.
- Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Bring to a boil before reducing heat to simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- While the chicken cooks, cut the corn off the cobs and set aside.
- Use tongs to remove cooked chicken from the pot.
- Stir in the fresh corn into the pot.
- Chop or shred the chicken breasts before returning them to the pot.
- Mix in sour cream and shredded cheese.
- Sprinkle cornstarch over top while stirring rapidly to avoid clumps.
- Allow it to simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes until thickened.
- Turn off heat before stirring in lime juice.
- Ladle into bowls and serve hot with your favorite garnishes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (350g)
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Adjust spice levels by modifying jalapeΓ±o and cayenne amounts. Substitute chicken with vegetables or plant-based proteins for a vegetarian option. Fresh ingredients yield the best flavor; opt for them whenever possible.








