We’re excited to share this Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe that combines the best elements of White Chicken Chili and classic Mexican Street Corn. This delightful dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a vibrant gathering with friends. With its zesty flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- Base Ingredients
- Spices
- Main Components
- Fresh Addition
- Creamy Elements
- Thickening Agent and Seasoning
- Garnishes (Optional)
- How to Make Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
- Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Step 3: Prepare the Corn
- Step 4: Shred Chicken & Add Corn
- Step 5: Mix in Creamy Ingredients
- Step 6: Final Touches
- How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
- Garnish Ideas
- Bowl Suggestions
- How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
- Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
- Reheating Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How can I customize the Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe?
- What if my chili is too spicy?
- Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
- What toppings work best with this recipe?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Zesty Flavor: The combination of spices, fresh corn, and creamy cheese creates a rich taste that excites your palate.
- Easy Preparation: This recipe doesn’t require extensive cooking skills, making it accessible for everyone.
- Versatile Dish: It serves beautifully as a main meal or can be enjoyed as a hearty appetizer.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean chicken and fresh vegetables, this chili is a nutritious option without sacrificing flavor.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—perfect for busy schedules!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything on hand makes cooking 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: Essential for simmering chili evenly without burning.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients
To make this delicious Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Base 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
Spices
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4-1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Main Components
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast
- 7 ounces chopped green chiles (mild or medium)
Fresh Addition
- 4 cups fresh corn cut off the cob (about 4-5 cobs)
Creamy Elements
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
Thickening Agent and Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnishes (Optional)
Possible garnishes include:
* More cilantro or shredded cheese
* Avocado slices
* Lime wedges
* Tortilla chips
How to Make Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Set a large 6-8 quart soup pot over medium heat.
– Add the olive oil and chopped onions.
– Sauté the onions for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
– Add in minced garlic, jalapeno, cilantro, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper.
– Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken broth, whole chicken breasts, and chopped green chiles to the pot.
– Season with salt and black pepper (about 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper).
– Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 3: Prepare the Corn
While the chicken cooks:
– Cut the corn off the cobs using a sharp knife.
– Set aside for later use.
Step 4: Shred Chicken & Add Corn
Using tongs:
– Remove cooked chicken from the pot.
– Stir in fresh corn into the broth mixture.
– Shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces before adding it back into the pot.
Step 5: Mix in Creamy Ingredients
Stir in sour cream and shredded cheese into your chili.
– As you sprinkle cornstarch over top, stir rapidly to avoid clumps.
Step 6: Final Touches
Simmer for an additional 3–5 minutes until the chili thickens slightly.
– Turn off heat then stir in lime juice before serving.
Ladle into bowls and garnish as desired! Enjoy your hearty bowl of Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili!
How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
Serving your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delightful experience that enhances its vibrant flavors. This chili can be enjoyed in various ways, allowing you to customize each bowl to your liking.
Garnish Ideas
- Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
- Shredded Cheese: Add more pepper jack cheese for extra creaminess and flavor.
- Avocado Slices: Top with creamy avocado slices for a rich texture.
- Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges for an added zesty kick.
- Tortilla Chips: Offer crispy tortilla chips on the side for a satisfying crunch.
Bowl Suggestions
- Individual Bowls: Serve in individual bowls topped with choice garnishes for a personal touch.
- Family Style: Present in one large pot on the table, allowing guests to serve themselves.
How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
To make your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.
- Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn off the cob provides a sweeter taste compared to frozen or canned varieties.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the heat by adding more or fewer jalapeños and cayenne pepper based on preference.
- Simmer Longer: Allowing the chili to simmer longer can deepen the flavors and improve consistency.
- Add More Veggies: Consider incorporating diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Blend for Creaminess: For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the chili before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
Pairing your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili with delicious sides can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement this dish perfectly.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a lovely contrast to the spicy chili, making it a classic pairing.
- Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad adds crunch and lightness, balancing the richness of the chili.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips and offers an additional layer of flavor.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy Mexican rice seasoned with spices complements the chili’s bold flavors beautifully.
- Grilled Vegetables: Grilled veggies bring out natural sweetness and add depth to your meal alongside the chili.
- Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas filled with beans or veggies create a satisfying side that’s easy to share.
- Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes offer heartiness that contrasts nicely with the chili’s texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili can be simple, but common mistakes can hinder your dish’s flavor and texture.
- Bold Ingredients: Always use fresh ingredients. Stale spices or old produce will affect the taste of your chili.
- Bold Overcooking Chicken: Overcooking the chicken can lead to dry meat. Monitor cooking time closely; remove it as soon as it’s cooked through.
- Bold Ignoring Seasoning: Don’t skip seasoning! Taste your chili during cooking and adjust salt and spices as needed for the best flavor.
- Bold Not Thicker Base: If your chili is too thin, remember to stir in cornstarch slowly while mixing. This will help achieve a creamy consistency.
- Bold Skipping Garnishes: Garnishes add color and extra flavor. Don’t forget about toppings like cilantro or lime wedges for a fresher taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe in an airtight container.
- It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
- If you want to freeze it, use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- The chili can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries about the Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe.
How can I customize the Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe?
You can add different beans or switch the cheese type based on personal preference. For a spicier kick, include more jalapeños or hot sauce!
What if my chili is too spicy?
If it turns out too spicy, add sour cream or more corn to balance the heat. These ingredients will help tone down the spice level.
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes! Frozen corn works perfectly well and saves preparation time. Just add it directly to the pot without thawing.
What toppings work best with this recipe?
Popular toppings include avocado slices, additional cilantro, shredded cheese, or crunchy tortilla chips for added texture.
Final Thoughts
The Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust spiciness levels. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for any occasion!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Mexican Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe, a delightful fusion of zesty spices and hearty ingredients. Combining the comforting elements of white chicken chili with the lively essence of classic Mexican street corn, this dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or lively gatherings with friends. Packed with lean chicken, fresh corn, and creamy components, it’s not just delicious; it’s also a nutritious choice that can easily be tailored to suit your preferences. Whether served as a main course or a hearty appetizer, this chili promises to impress everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 large sweet onion, peeled and chopped
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large jalapeno, seeded and chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast
- 7 ounces chopped green chiles
- 4 cups fresh corn, cut off the cob
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4–1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté chopped onions in olive oil until softened. 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 a boil then reduce heat to simmer for about 20 minutes.
- While chicken cooks, cut corn off the cobs and set aside.
- Remove cooked chicken from the pot; shred and return it along with fresh corn.
- Stir in sour cream and shredded cheese; mix in cornstarch gradually while stirring to avoid clumps.
- Simmer for an additional 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened; finish with lime juice before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 85mg





