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As I stirred the pot, the sweet aroma of charred corn danced in the air, instantly transporting me to a sunny street fair. This Street Corn Chicken Chili brings that vibrant and festive vibe straight to your kitchen. Packed with lean ground chicken, hearty black beans, and a delightful pop of corn, it's not just a meal—it's a harmony of flavors that warms the soul. Plus, this chili is a quick triumph for busy weeknights, simmering to perfection in just 50 minutes. It becomes a crowd-pleaser in no time, serving up comfort and joy for the whole family. What more could you ask for? Let me share how you can whip up this deliciousness and unleash a new favorite in your home!
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Why is Street Corn Chicken Chili a Must-Try?
Comforting Warmth: This chili is more than just food; it’s a hug in a bowl! Flavor Explosion: A blend of spices, charred corn, and creamy sour cream creates a deliciously layered taste. Quick & Easy: In just 50 minutes, you can have a wholesome meal that’ll impress your guests. Versatile Delight: Serve it with tortilla chips for a fun twist, or enjoy it solo! Perfect for cozy nights, this chili is bound to become a household favorite, just like my Mexican Street Corn dip.
Street Corn Chicken Chili Ingredients
• Get ready to bring vibrant flavors to your table!
For the Base
- Olive oil – a heart-healthy fat that adds richness to the chili.
- Large onion, diced – brings a sweet base flavor when sautéed.
- Garlic, minced – enhances the aroma and taste with a fragrant kick.
- Red bell pepper, chopped – adds sweetness and a pop of color.
- Green bell pepper, chopped – balances the sweetness of the red pepper.
- Jalapeño, seeded and minced – provides a mild heat that can be adjusted to taste.
For the Protein
- Ground chicken – a lean protein that keeps this chili light yet satisfying.
For the Beans & Veggies
- Black beans, drained and rinsed – adds fiber and a hearty texture.
- Fire-roasted tomatoes – infuses the chili with a smoky flavor.
- Corn kernels – adds a sweet crunch, bringing that street corn essence to the dish.
For the Seasoning
- Chili powder – the backbone spice that offers warmth and depth.
- Ground cumin – enhances the earthiness of the chili's flavor profile.
- Paprika – adds a subtle sweetness and a rich color.
- Salt – essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- Black pepper – gives a slight kick and balances the richness.
For the Broth & Creaminess
- Chicken broth – provides the necessary liquid for a deliciously rich chili.
- Sour cream – adds creaminess and tang to the finished dish; a must for that comforting vibe!
For Garnishing
- Cilantro, chopped – a fresh herb to brighten the dish.
- Crumbled cotija cheese – adds a salty, creamy touch that elevates the flavor.
- Juice of 1 lime – a burst of acidity that brings it all together!
For Serving
- Tortilla chips – perfect for scooping or adding crunch on top of your chili.
Now that you have all the delicious ingredients ready, it’s time to let those flavors mingle and create a memorable meal everyone will adore—just like my Street Corn Chicken Chili! Enjoy cooking and happy eating!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Street Corn Chicken Chili
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it becomes translucent, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma. This forms the base for your flavorful Street Corn Chicken Chili.
Step 2: Add the Peppers and Garlic
Next, stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic, along with the chopped red and green bell peppers, and the seeded, minced jalapeño. Continue to sauté the mixture for another 3–4 minutes until the peppers soften and brighten in color, creating a vibrant medley of flavors.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Add 1 pound of ground chicken to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Stir occasionally for about 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, ensuring that it’s thoroughly integrated with the aromatic vegetables.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring in the heartiness! Stir in the drained black beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, corn, chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure every ingredient is coated with the delicious spices, setting the stage for a hearty Street Corn Chicken Chili.
Step 5: Add Chicken Broth and Simmer
Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, stirring to combine. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, and once bubbling, reduce the heat to low. Let the chili simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as the chili thickens slightly.
Step 6: Incorporate the Creaminess
After simmering, remove the pot from heat and stir in 1 cup of sour cream. Mix until it's fully incorporated, creating a creamy texture that enhances the richness of your Street Corn Chicken Chili.
Step 7: Finish with Fresh Ingredients
Add in the chopped cilantro and squeeze the juice of 1 lime over the mixture. Stir to combine, which will elevate the dish with fresh brightness that balances the hearty flavors perfectly.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the chili into bowls, garnishing each serving with crumbled cotija cheese and additional cilantro if desired. Serve hot with a side of tortilla chips for a delightful crunch that complements your warm and comforting Street Corn Chicken Chili.
What to Serve with Street Corn Chicken Chili
A comforting bowl of chili deserves a spread of delicious accompaniments to enhance your mealtime experience.
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Creamy Avocado Salad: This fresh salad adds a delightful creaminess and pairs beautifully with the savory chili. Toss diced avocados with lime juice and cilantro for a bright touch.
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Mini Cornbread Muffins: Soft, sweet cornbread complements the chili's spices and provides a satisfying texture. Enjoy them warm with a pat of butter for extra indulgence.
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Crispy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for dipping, these chips provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts the chili's warmth. They're ideal for scooping up each delicious bite!
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Mexican Street Corn Salad: Channel the flavors of your chili with this side. Combining sweet corn, lime, and cotija cheese, it mirrors the street corn inspiration and adds a zesty flair.
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Zesty Lime Rice: Fluffy rice with a hint of lime not only balances the chili but also helps soak up flavorful broth, making each bite a little taste of heaven.
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Chilled Margarita: Elevate your dining experience with a refreshing margarita. The tartness cuts through the richness of the chili, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These Street Corn Chicken Chili is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables—onion, bell peppers, and jalapeño—up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to save time during the week. Additionally, you can brown the ground chicken and combine it with the beans, tomatoes, and spices, then refrigerate this mixture for up to 3 days before cooking. When you're ready to enjoy your chili, simply bring everything back to the pot, add the chicken broth, and simmer until heated through. This ensures that your chili is just as delicious and packed with flavors, saving you valuable time during busy nights!
Expert Tips for Street Corn Chicken Chili
Perfect Vegetables: Use fresh onions and peppers for a vibrant flavor profile. Avoid overcooking them to retain their crunch.
Mind the Heat: Adjust the jalapeño to your spice preference. Remember, you can always add more heat, but it’s hard to take it away!
Creamy Finish: Mix the sour cream off the heat to prevent curdling. This keeps your Street Corn Chicken Chili silky smooth and delicious.
Customize Your Chili: Don't hesitate to substitute or add your favorite vegetables or beans. This dish is versatile—make it your own!
Simmer Time: Allow the chili to simmer for the full 25 minutes. This step melds all those robust flavors, ensuring each bite is packed with deliciousness.
Street Corn Chicken Chili Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful swaps and twists that will add your personal touch to the Street Corn Chicken Chili!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute sour cream with coconut cream for a creamy texture without dairy. It adds a subtle sweetness that complements the chili beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Increase the heat by adding more jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. For fiery lovers, consider topping your chili with sliced fresh chilies!
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Vegetarian Option: Use a plant-based ground meat alternative or extra black beans instead of ground chicken. It creates a hearty flavor while keeping it plant-forward.
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Extra Veggies: Toss in some zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and color. These additions will enhance texture and bring freshness to the chili.
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Smoky Flavor: Amp up the smoky goodness by adding some diced smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke. This will immerse your dish in deep, rich taste.
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Corn Substitution: Swap out corn for diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a different sweet twist. Both options offer a unique flavor profile that's utterly satisfying.
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Herb Infusion: If you’re a cilantro fan, add more or switch it up with fresh parsley or green onions for a refreshing change. The brightness can really elevate your chili.
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Crispy Topping: For a fun crunch, top your chili with crushed tortilla chips or fried onions. These will provide a fantastic contrast to the smooth creamy base of your chili.
Let your creativity shine with these variations! For more flavor inspiration, check out my recipes for Sweet Chili Chicken or try making a batch of Blackened Chicken and Sweet Potato Bowls. Happy cooking!
How to Store and Freeze Street Corn Chicken Chili
Fridge: Store your Street Corn Chicken Chili in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy it later, freeze the chili in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if it appears too thick.
Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best corn for my chili?
Absolutely! If using fresh corn, look for ears that are bright green with tightly wrapped husks and plump kernels. For frozen, choose a quality bag without added sugars. Canned corn should be drained and rinsed to remove excess salt.
How should I store leftover Street Corn Chicken Chili?
Very simple! Store your Street Corn Chicken Chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation, which can make it soggy.
Can I freeze Street Corn Chicken Chili?
Absolutely! You can freeze your chili for up to 3 months. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and leave about an inch of space at the top for expansion. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight before gently reheating on the stovetop.
What can I do if my chili is too thick after cooking?
No worries! If your chili turns out too thick, simply add a little chicken broth or water—about ¼ cup at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Stir gently over low heat until it blends in smoothly.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, definitely! If you're serving this to guests with dietary restrictions, keep in mind that the chili contains chicken and dairy. For a vegetarian option, replace ground chicken with a mix of lentils or additional beans and use a dairy-free sour cream substitute. Just ensure everyone enjoys this delicious dish!
Deliciously Easy Street Corn Chicken Chili for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic, along with the chopped red and green bell peppers, and the seeded, minced jalapeño. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes.
- Add 1 pound of ground chicken, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Stir in the black beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, corn, chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, stir, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of sour cream until fully incorporated.
- Add in the chopped cilantro and squeeze the juice of 1 lime over the mixture, then stir to combine.
- Ladle the chili into bowls, garnishing with crumbled cotija cheese and additional cilantro if desired. Serve hot with tortilla chips.
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