Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
We’re excited to share our Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe! This delightful dish combines the comforting warmth of chicken chili with the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn, making it perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings. With its zesty taste and creamy texture, this chicken chili is sure to be a hit at any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of spices, fresh corn, and creamy ingredients ensures each bite is packed with deliciousness.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With enough servings for a group, it’s an ideal choice for parties or family gatherings.
- Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite garnishes like avocado, cilantro, or cheese to make each bowl unique.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for simmering the chili evenly without splattering.
- Chef’s knife: Essential for chopping vegetables efficiently and safely.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precision in ingredient quantities for consistent results.

Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create the perfect Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili:
- 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
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4-1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast
- 7 ounces chopped green chiles, (mild or medium)
- 4 cups fresh corn cut off the cob (about 4-5 cobs)
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 lime, (juiced)
- 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: Sauté the Vegetables
Set a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil and chopped onions.
* Sauté the onions for about 2–3 minutes until they start to soften.
* Next, add the minced garlic, chopped jalapeno, cilantro, ground cumin, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper.
* Continue sautéing for another 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken broth into the pot along with whole chicken breasts and chopped green chiles.
* Season with salt and black pepper.
* Bring everything to a boil then lower the heat to let it simmer for approximately 20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 3: Prepare the Corn
While the chicken cooks:
* Cut fresh corn off the cobs and set aside.
Step 4: Shred Chicken and Combine Ingredients
Once done:
* Use tongs to remove cooked chicken from the pot.
* Stir in the prepared corn into the pot.
* Chop or shred the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and return them to the pot.
Step 5: Add Creaminess
Stir in sour cream and shredded pepper jack cheese until melted.
* Sprinkle cornstarch over top while stirring rapidly to avoid clumps.
Step 6: Final Touches
Let simmer for an additional 3–5 minutes until thickened.
* Turn off heat and stir in freshly squeezed lime juice.
Serve warm in bowls topped with your favorite garnishes like extra cilantro or avocado slices!
Enjoy your flavorful journey with this Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe—a delightful twist that everyone will love!
How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
Serving your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili is an opportunity to enhance the flavors and create a delightful meal experience. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dish.
Garnish with Fresh Ingredients
- Cilantro: Adds a fresh, vibrant flavor that complements the chili.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado provides a rich texture and balances the spice.
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime brightens the chili and adds acidity.
- Shredded Cheese: Extra pepper jack or cheddar cheese creates a gooey topping that melts beautifully.
- Tortilla Chips: Serve on the side for crunch and an additional layer of flavor.
Create a Chili Bar
- Toppings Station: Set up a variety of toppings like diced onions, jalapenos, and sour cream for guests to customize their bowls.
- Side Dishes: Include options like cornbread or rice to make it a hearty meal.
How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
Perfecting your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili can elevate it from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out delicious every time.
- Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn adds sweetness and texture. If fresh is unavailable, frozen corn can work too.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the cayenne pepper based on your preference for heat. Start with less if you’re unsure.
- Shred Your Chicken: After cooking, shred the chicken for better distribution throughout the chili.
- Thicken with Cornstarch: Stirring in cornstarch while mixing helps achieve the desired thickness without lumps.
- Add Extra Broth if Needed: If your chili thickens too much, add more broth to reach your desired consistency.
Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili can enhance its flavors. Here are some great options.
- Cornbread: This sweet and buttery bread complements the savory chili perfectly.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with spices provides a satisfying base next to the chili.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies add color and nutrients while providing a smoky flavor.
- Guacamole: A creamy dip made from ripe avocados pairs well with the spiciness of the chili.
- Simple Salad: A fresh salad with lime vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the chili.
- Quesadillas: Cheese-filled tortillas provide a crispy texture that contrasts nicely with the chili’s warmth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili can be easy, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture.
- Skipping Ingredient Prep – Not prepping your ingredients ahead of time can lead to overcooked or burnt components. Chop vegetables and measure spices before starting to cook.
- Overcooking the Chicken – Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Remove it once fully cooked and shred it quickly to maintain moisture.
- Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments – Not tasting as you go can result in bland chili. Always taste your dish during cooking and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients – Using canned or low-quality corn can dull the flavors. Opt for fresh corn when possible for a vibrant taste.
- Not Thinning the Chili Properly – If your chili becomes too thick, it may not be enjoyable. Add extra chicken broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow the chili to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
- Freeze in portions using freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.
- Label containers with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop – Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe that might help you get started.
How do I make my Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili spicier?
You can add more cayenne pepper or include diced hot peppers like serrano or habanero. Adjust the spice level according to your preference while cooking.
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen corn works well in this recipe. Simply add it directly to the chili without thawing first for convenience.
What sides pair well with Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili?
Consider serving tortilla chips, cornbread, or a simple green salad as sides to complement this hearty chili.
How long does it take to make this recipe?
The total time is approximately 60 minutes, with about 20 minutes of prep and 40 minutes of cooking time.
Can I customize this Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add beans, different vegetables, or swap out the cheese according to your tastes and dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
This Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors that everyone will love. It’s versatile too; you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or garnishes. Give it a try, and enjoy a warm bowl of deliciousness!
Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
Get ready to warm your soul with our Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe! This vibrant dish combines tender chicken with the sweet crunch of fresh corn and a medley of spices, creating a comforting experience that’s perfect for any gathering. With a creamy texture enhanced by sour cream and cheese, every spoonful bursts with flavor. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite toppings, this chili is not only delicious but also a crowd-pleaser.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 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
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4–1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast
- 7 ounces chopped green chiles, mild or medium
- 4 cups fresh corn cut off the cob (about 4–5 cobs)
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions until softened, then add minced garlic, jalapeno, cilantro, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Cook until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and add whole chicken breasts and green chiles. Season with salt and pepper; bring to boil then simmer for 20 minutes until chicken is cooked.
- Cut corn off cobs while chicken cooks; set aside.
- Remove chicken from pot, chop or shred it, and return to the pot along with prepared corn.
- Stir in sour cream and shredded cheese until melted; sprinkle cornstarch while stirring to thicken.
- Simmer for 3–5 minutes, then stir in lime juice before serving topped with desired garnishes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 810mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
