Spicy Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili Easy Recipe

Imagine a cozy evening with the golden hues of sunset spilling through your kitchen window as you prepare a delightful dish that warms both the body and soul. The aroma of spices and freshly cooked corn fills the air, inviting family and friends to gather around the table for a delightful culinary experience. This Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili is just that—a perfect blend of flavors inspired by traditional Mexican street corn, known as “elote.” Each sip transports you to a vibrant street fair, where laughter and camaraderie intertwine with the delightful crunch of corn and the creaminess of cheese.

What makes this recipe special? It’s not just easy to prepare, but it harmoniously combines the comfort of chili with the enchanting flavors of street corn, making it a unique twist on two beloved dishes. Whether it’s a game day gathering, a summer cookout, or a quick weeknight meal, this chili is sure to leave everyone craving for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili is a versatile dish that checks all the boxes for flavor, nutrition, and heartiness. The combination of tender chicken, sweet corn, and zesty spices creates a warming bowl that embodies comfort food perfection. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze! You’ll love how easily it can be customized to suit your tastes—whether you prefer it mild or spicy, or loaded with additional toppings.

Not only does this chili satisfy your taste buds, but it also offers a delightful medley of textures. The crispy corn, creamy cheese, and hearty chicken come together for an impressive and satisfying dish that’s as beautiful to look at as it is to eat. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, meal prepping, or enjoying as leftovers!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for crafting this flavorful chili. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: This is the protein base of the dish, providing a satisfying bite and rich flavor.
• 1 cup frozen corn: Sweet and crunchy, the corn brings a taste of summer to your bowl, echoing the traditional elote.
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans: These add creaminess and a hearty texture, making your chili extra filling.
• 4 cups chicken broth: The foundational liquid for the chili, it contributes depth and rich flavor.
• 1 medium onion, diced: This aromatics enhances the base flavor, giving the dish warmth and sweetness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings a robust flavor that elevates the other ingredients.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: This spice adds a warm, earthy flavor that is characteristic of many Mexican dishes.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: For a mild heat and depth of flavor, this is essential to achieving that classic chili profile.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: This delivers a subtle smokiness for that barbecue twist, reminiscent of street food.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors and ensuring the dish is well-seasoned.
• 1 lime, juiced: The acidity brightens the whole dish, balancing the richness of the chicken and cheese.
• 1 cup queso fresco, crumbled: This creamy cheese adds a luscious texture and authentic flavor finishing touch.

2. Optional Additions

• Jalapeños: For those who enjoy heat, add diced jalapeños to the pot or use them as a topping.
• Poblano peppers: Roasted and diced, these can enhance the smoky flavor profile.
• Fresh cilantro: Stirring in fresh cilantro before serving can add a bright, herbal note.
• Avocado: Diced avocado can add creaminess and enhance the dish’s cooling effect against spices.

3. Special Garnishes

• Chili powder or paprika: A sprinkle on top can intensify the color and flavor.
• Extra queso fresco: To make it look as vibrant as it tastes, topped with additional cheese.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop can provide a creamy, cooling element.
• Chopped scallions: For a fresh crunch and a pop of color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Add the Spices

Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Incorporate the Chicken and Broth

Next, add the cooked shredded chicken to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Mix well, scraping up any bits stuck at the bottom of the pot to build flavor.

Step 4: Add the Beans and Corn

Stir in the white beans and frozen corn, and bring everything to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Season and Finish

Before serving, stir in the lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. If using jalapeños or other optional add-ins, fold them in now.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Serve the chili hot in bowls and sprinkle with crumbled queso fresco and any desired garnishes like cilantro or sour cream. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!

Serving and Storage Tips

Your Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili is perfect for serving warm and can be enjoyed with tortilla chips, over rice, or even in a hot corn tortilla.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. You can also freeze portions in individual containers for up to 3 months. Just ensure to thaw completely before reheating!

Helpful Tips

• For a thicker chili, reduce the amount of chicken broth by half and add additional beans.
• Feel free to substitute rotisserie chicken for convenience or any leftover chicken you have.
• Prepare it in advance for meal prep! This chili is even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
• Garnishing options are limitless; be creative with what you have on hand!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply replace the shredded chicken with a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How spicy is this chili?

This version keeps the heat mild, but you can easily adjust the spiciness by adding more jalapeños or even a dash of hot sauce to suit your tastes.

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh corn can be used! Just ensure it’s cooked and cut from the cob before adding it to the chili. Two or three ears should suffice.

What can I serve with this chili?

Some delicious pairings include cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad. It also makes a great topping for baked potatoes!

Can I modify the serving size?

Yes, feel free to halve or double the recipe, just keep an eye on your cooking time as larger quantities may need a bit longer to simmer and blend flavors!

Conclusion

Your adventure with Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili is more than just preparing a meal—it’s about creating memorable moments with loved ones. The unique combination of flavors and textures will surely impress, making it a standout dish at any gathering. Give it a try, and you just might find it becoming a staple in your recipe rotation. We’d love to hear your adaptations and experiences, so feel free to share in the comments below! Happy cooking!

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