On a chilly evening, when the air is crisp and you’re craving something warm and delightful, nothing beats a bowl of hearty chili. Enter the Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili—a perfect blend of comfort and zest that transports you straight to vibrant street corners in Mexico. Inspired by the traditional elote, a beloved street food, this chili combines the flavors of roasted corn, creaminess, and tender chicken to create a dish that not only nourishes the body but also evokes a sense of nostalgia and joy.
This recipe is unique, effortlessly merging the warmth of chili with the fresh, tangy notes of Mexican street corn. It’s easy to prepare, making it the ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends and family. Take your taste buds on a journey with this flavorful gem that promises to become a staple in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili isn’t just another chili recipe; it’s packed with vibrant flavors and textures that make every spoonful a delight. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love making this dish:
- Flavor Explosion: Each component—from the sweet corn to the smoky spices—contributes to a stunning kaleidoscope of flavors that dance on your palate.
- Versatile and Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients or adjust the spice level to cater to your family’s taste preferences.
- Nourishing Comfort: Filled with wholesome ingredients, this chili warms you up from the inside out, making it a perfect cozy meal.
- Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is hassle-free for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you get started, ensure you have all the ingredients ready. Each one plays a crucial role in achieving that delightful, delicious chili.
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: The star of the dish providing a protein boost and a base for the chili flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds richness and helps enhance the flavors of the vegetables.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Provides a sweet and savory foundation; it’s aromatic and flavorful.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds an earthy depth that complements the spices and other ingredients.
- 2 cups corn (fresh or frozen): This is what turns your chili into street corn—sweet and crunchy, it brings freshness to every bite.
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans: Creamy and filling, they add substance to the chili without overwhelming flavors.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: A crucial spice that adds warmth and a slight smokiness, enhancing the chili’s complexity.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: This adds both color and heat, giving your chili that essential kick.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Serves as the liquid base of the chili, infusing it with flavor while keeping it comforting.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds luxury and smoothness, making the chili wonderfully creamy.
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish: Brightens the dish up and adds a fresh herbal note.
- Lime wedges, for serving: A squeeze of lime brings a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness.
Optional Additions
Feel free to make this chili your own! Here are some optional additions to spice things up:
- Jalapeños: For those who love a spicy kick, adding diced jalapeños can bring the heat.
- Chipotle in adobo: A spoonful of this smoky sauce can add an intense flavor profile.
- Avocado: Sliced avocado on top of the chili adds creaminess and is a fantastic contrast.
- Cheddar cheese: Sprinkling shredded cheese on top makes for a gooey finish.
Special Garnishes
Completing your dish with a few special garnishes will highlight both the appearance and taste:
- Crumbled feta or cotija cheese: Sprinkling this salty cheese on top gives a delightful crunch and complements the sweet corn.
- Chopped green onions: For a mild onion flavor and a pop of color, sprinkle these on your bowl just before serving.
- Fresh lime juice: Providing a bright finish, a drizzle of fresh lime juice can make all the flavors pop.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to bring this delicious chili to life? Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a flavorful dish in no time!
- Prepare the chicken: If you haven’t already, cook your chicken thoroughly (boiling, baking, or using a rotisserie) and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
- Add the corn: Stir in the corn (if using frozen, ensure it’s thawed first) and cook for another 3-4 minutes, mixing until the corn is heated through.
- Season the mixture: Add the shredded chicken, white beans, cumin, chili powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to coat everything with spices.
- Add the broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 15-20 minutes so all the flavors meld together.
- Add the cream: After simmering, stir in the heavy cream. Allow the chili to heat through for another few minutes, then taste for seasoning.
- Serve! Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and any of the optional toppings you desire.
Serving and Storage Tips
This chili is perfect for serving warm, but it also stores beautifully, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili with:
- Warm tortillas: Serve it with crunchy tortilla chips or soft tortillas to scoop up every last drop!
- Rice or quinoa: For a heartier meal, serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa.
- Fresh salad: A crisp green salad on the side can balance the richness beautifully.
Storage Tips
Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store them:
- In the refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4-5 days.
- In the freezer: This chili also freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Helpful Tips
Here are some additional tips to enhance your cooking experience:
- Quality chicken: Use organic or free-range chicken for the best flavor and texture in your chili.
- Taste as you go: This chili is all about the balance of flavors; adjust seasoning as necessary to suit your palate perfectly.
- Make it a day ahead: If time allows, make the chili a day before serving. The flavors deepen and meld beautifully overnight.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this chili vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with hearty veggies like zucchini or mushrooms, use vegetable broth, and opt for coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a delicious vegan version.
How spicy is this chili?
The spice levels can be controlled easily; if you prefer it mild, reduce the chili powder or omit the jalapeños. The natural sweetness of the corn counterbalances flavors well.
Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?
Yes, canned corn works just fine! Just make sure to drain and rinse it before adding it to the chili.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover chili can be repurposed creatively! Use it as a flavorful filling for quesadillas, topping for baked potatoes, or even as a delicious filling for enchiladas.
How can I adjust the consistency of the chili?
If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer. For a thinner chili, simply add more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Conclusion
The Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili is not just another dish; it’s a whole experience, wrapping you in warmth and flavor that can turn any ordinary day into a memorable culinary adventure. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a festive gathering, this recipe has the power to bring friends and family together, sharing laughter and stories over a comforting bowl of chili.
We would love to hear your experiences! Share your thoughts and any unique twists you make to this recipe in the comments below. Remember, food is about connection, and this chili is a fantastic way to create cherished moments with your loved ones. So grab your apron, gather the ingredients, and embark on this delicious journey today!
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Spicy Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili Recipe Delight
Savor this Spicy Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili recipe a delightful blend of flavors for a quick comforting meal sure to impress
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 calories
- Sugar: 4 grams
- Fat: 15 grams
- Saturated Fat: 15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Fiber: 5 grams
- Protein: 25 grams
Keywords: chili, white chicken chili, Mexican recipes, street corn, comfort food



