Street Corn Chicken Chili

why make this recipe

Street Corn Chicken Chili combines the best of both worlds: the robust flavors of chili and the sweet, smoky taste of street corn. This dish not only warms you on a chilly day, but it also brings a bit of excitement to your dinner table. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings, game days, or when you simply crave something comforting yet different. The flavors are vibrant, and every spoonful packs a punch. Beyond its deliciousness, this chili is also packed with nutrients, thanks to the corn and cilantro.

One of the great aspects of this recipe is its flexibility. You can adjust the heat to your liking, add extra toppings, or even make it vegetarian by swapping out the ground chicken. It’s an excellent base that can be easily customized to fit your taste. Plus, with plenty of protein and veggies, it’s a satisfying dish that can be enjoyed any night of the week. The use of ingredients like jalapeños and cumin helps to create a warm and inviting aroma that will surely have everyone flocking to the kitchen.

how to make Street Corn Chicken Chili

Creating this delightful Street Corn Chicken Chili is easier than you might think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a hearty dish ready to serve in no time.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 to 4 jalapeño peppers, seeds removed and diced
• 6 to 8 ears of corn on the cob, kernels cut from the cob
• Kosher salt and pepper to taste
• 6 to 8 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 pounds ground chicken
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 3/4 cup beer (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chicken base (such as Better Than Bouillon)
• A few dashes of hot sauce of choice
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup chopped cilantro
• 3 tablespoons lime juice
• Additional cilantro for garnish
• Crumbled cotija cheese for garnish
• Extra chili powder for garnish
• Lime wedges for garnish

Directions

1. Heat Olive Oil: Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. This oil will help cook the vegetables and add extra flavor to the dish.

2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion and diced jalapeños to the pot. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes. You want the onions to become translucent and the jalapeños to soften slightly.

3. Add Corn: Now, it’s time to incorporate the corn. Add the kernels from 6 to 8 ears of corn to the pot, along with a pinch of kosher salt and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for another 7-9 minutes until the corn starts to soften.

4. Cook Garlic and Chicken: Next, stir in the minced garlic and ground chicken. Break up the chicken as it cooks and gets mixed in with the vegetables. Once the chicken is added, toss in the chili powder, paprika, cumin, and some extra salt and pepper. Continue cooking for about 7-9 minutes until the chicken is fully browned.

5. Add Broth and Beer: Pour in the chicken broth and beer (if you choose to use it). Make sure to stir in the chicken base, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

6. Finish the Chili: After simmering, stir in your choice of hot sauce, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes. The sour cream will add creaminess, while the lime juice will brighten the flavors.

7. Serve: Once everything is cooked and mixed well, it’s time to serve! Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish each serving with fresh cilantro, crumbled cotija cheese, extra chili powder, and lime wedges.

how to serve Street Corn Chicken Chili

Serving Street Corn Chicken Chili is quite straightforward. Here are a few suggestions:

• In Bowls: Ladle the hot chili into deep bowls. This allows everyone to enjoy a hearty serving and makes it easy to scoop up with a spoon.

• With Toppings: Provide an array of toppings on the side. Crumbled cotija cheese, extra cilantro, lime wedges, and additional hot sauce are great options. Let your guests customize their bowls just the way they like.

• With Bread or Cornbread: Pair your chili with some crusty bread, tortilla chips, or homemade cornbread. This adds a comforting element and is perfect for scooping up the chili.

• For a Festive Occasion: If you’re serving for a gathering or party, consider presenting the chili in a slow cooker. This keeps it warm, gives a buffet-style service, and allows for easy access.

how to store Street Corn Chicken Chili

Storing Street Corn Chicken Chili effectively keeps it fresh and ready for later enjoyment. Here are some tips:

• Cool the Chili: Allow the chili to cool down to room temperature before storing it. This helps to preserve its flavor and texture.

• Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the cooled chili into airtight containers. You can use glass or plastic containers that seal well.

• Refrigerate: Store the chili in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s covered properly to avoid any food contamination.

• Freeze for Longer Storage: If you want to keep it for an extended period, consider freezing it. Place the chili in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

tips to make Street Corn Chicken Chili

1. Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer less heat, reduce the number of jalapeños or use mild chili powder. Conversely, if you like it spicy, add more jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce.

2. Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn on the cob will give your chili a sweeter, fresher flavor. If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn works well too. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the pot.

3. Cooking Time: If you’re short on time, you can cook the chili at a higher heat after adding the broth and beer. Just make sure to stir frequently to avoid burning, and reduce the cooking time accordingly.

4. Garnish Surprisingly: This dish is visually appealing! Use plenty of fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish. If you’re serving for guests, a little extra touch goes a long way in impressing them.

5. Leftover Optimization: If you have leftover chili, consider using it to create another meal. Pour it over baked potatoes, mix it with pasta, or serve it in tacos. Getting creative with leftovers can make a delicious surprise meal.

variation

Street Corn Chicken Chili is versatile, making it easy to tweak ingredients based on your preferences. Here are some variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground chicken with 2 cans of black beans or chickpeas. This keeps the chili hearty but makes it suitable for vegetarians.

• Different Proteins: You can use ground turkey, beef, or even shredded rotisserie chicken instead of ground chicken for a different twist.

• Spices: Feel free to experiment with spices. Adding smoked paprika or chipotle powder can give the chili a deeper flavor.

• Add Beans: For a traditional chili touch, consider adding kidney beans or pinto beans. They offer additional protein and texture.

• Creamy Option: If you love creaminess, consider stirring in a bit of cream cheese along with the sour cream for a richer consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I make Street Corn Chicken Chili ahead of time?
Yes, this chili can be made 1-2 days ahead of time. It actually gets better as it sits! Just refrigerate it, and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

2. Is Street Corn Chicken Chili spicy?
The spice level depends on how many jalapeños you use and if you add extra hot sauce. You can control the heat by adjusting these ingredients according to your taste.

3. Can I freeze Street Corn Chicken Chili?
Absolutely! This chili freezes well. Just store it in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

4. What can I serve with Street Corn Chicken Chili?
This chili pairs wonderfully with bread, tortilla chips, cornbread, or even rice. You can serve it with a side salad for a complete meal.

5. Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?
Yes, frozen corn can be used if you don’t have fresh corn. Just thaw and drain it before adding it to the pot, and it will work great in the chili.

In conclusion, Street Corn Chicken Chili is a unique dish that blends the beloved essence of street corn with the comforting richness of chili. With its inviting aroma, wholesome ingredients, and the ability to cater to various dietary preferences, it’s bound to be a hit in any household. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a simple weeknight dinner, this chili offers a delightful option full of flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Enjoy serving it at gatherings or cozy dinners, and watch as it becomes a favorite in your recipe collection!