Here’s a delightful Street Corn Chicken Chili recipe that will leave your taste buds dancing! Imagine the warm aroma of roasted corn mingling with tender chicken, all enveloped in a hearty chili broth. It’s like a cozy hug for your stomach—a dish that transforms any ordinary day into a fiesta!
This chili is perfect for chilly evenings or when you need something to warm your soul after a long day. It’s my go-to comfort food, and I promise it will become yours too. Plus, the laughter you’ll share over this dish? Priceless!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This amazing chili combines the sweetness of street corn with the savory goodness of chicken for an unforgettable flavor experience.
- It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing, and it’s versatile enough to serve with rice, tortilla chips, or on its own.
- Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week!
Ingredients for Street Corn Chicken Chili
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts are ideal; adjust based on how many you’re feeding.
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Fresh Corn Kernels: Use about 2 cups of fresh corn off the cob or frozen corn for convenience.
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Black Beans: One can (15 oz) rinsed and drained adds fiber and protein to the mix.
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Diced Tomatoes: A 14 oz can of diced tomatoes brings moisture and flavor to your chili.
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Chicken Broth: About 4 cups; this is the base that ties all those flavors together beautifully.
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Onion: One medium onion, chopped; it adds depth and sweetness when cooked down.
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Garlic Cloves: Use about three cloves, minced; garlic makes everything better—it’s a fact!
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Cumin Powder: One teaspoon gives that earthy flavor signature to chili.
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Chili Powder: About two teaspoons; adjust according to your spice tolerance!
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Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed from one lime adds brightness and balances flavors perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Street Corn Chicken Chili
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté until translucent—about five minutes. Add minced garlic and let their aromas fill your kitchen for an additional minute.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Nestle them into the pot, cooking until browned on both sides—about six minutes per side. Don’t worry if they aren’t cooked through; they’ll finish cooking later.
Step 3: Add the Rest
Pour in those diced tomatoes, black beans, corn kernels, chicken broth, cumin powder, and chili powder. Stir everything together like you’re orchestrating a culinary symphony.
Step 4: Simmer Away
Bring your chili mixture to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about twenty minutes—this allows those flavors to mingle like old friends at a reunion.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
After twenty minutes, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot. Using two forks (or your superhero strength), shred them into bite-sized pieces before returning them back into the pot.
Step 6: Finish with Lime
Stir in freshly squeezed lime juice right before serving—it’s like adding sunshine! Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra lime juice or top with fresh cilantro for that perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your Street Corn Chicken Chili while basking in compliments from family and friends!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in those juicy flavors, then cook your veggies while preparing the chili base. Finally, combine everything for a harmonious blend of deliciousness that will have everyone singing your praises.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or beef if that’s what you have! Add some black beans for extra protein or toss in your favorite peppers for a pop of color and flavor. The options are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm gently on the stove or microwave until heated through to keep that rich flavor intact.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always let your chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to maximize flavor absorption.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing to achieve that perfect golden crust.
- Lastly, taste and adjust seasoning as you go—cooking should be fun and flexible!
One time, I made this dish for a family gathering, and my cousin declared it the “best chili ever.” He even insisted I write this recipe down so he could recreate it, which was quite the compliment coming from him!
FAQs :
What is Street Corn Chicken Chili?
Street Corn Chicken Chili is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with the vibrant flavors of street corn. This chili features sweet corn, spices, and creamy elements to create a comforting meal. It’s packed with nutrients and perfect for chilly days or when you crave something hearty. The use of chicken provides a lean protein source, making it both satisfying and nutritious.
How can I make Street Corn Chicken Chili spicier?
To add more heat to your Street Corn Chicken Chili, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or serrano peppers during cooking. You can also add spicy chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes to enhance the flavor profile. Adjust the spice level according to your preference by tasting as you go. This allows you to achieve the perfect balance of heat without overwhelming the dish.
Can I use frozen corn in my Street Corn Chicken Chili?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen corn in your Street Corn Chicken Chili. Frozen corn retains its sweetness and texture, making it an excellent substitute for fresh corn. Simply add it directly to your chili during the cooking process. The frozen corn will cook through quickly, allowing you to enjoy a delicious bowl of chili without compromising on flavor.
What are some good toppings for Street Corn Chicken Chili?
Toppings can elevate your Street Corn Chicken Chili experience! Consider adding diced avocado for creaminess, fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor, or crumbled tortilla chips for crunch. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of feta cheese can also complement the dish nicely. Feel free to get creative with toppings that suit your taste preferences!
Conclusion for Street Corn Chicken Chili :
Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delightful blend of vibrant flavors and hearty ingredients that everyone will enjoy. By using chicken and sweet corn, this recipe creates a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and comforting. With options to customize heat levels and add various toppings, it’s perfect for any occasion. Try making this dish today for a delicious family dinner that brings warmth and joy!
Street Corn Chicken Chili
Street Corn Chicken Chili is a delicious and hearty dish that combines tender chicken with sweet corn, black beans, and vibrant spices. Perfect for cozy evenings or family gatherings, this chili is straightforward to prepare and bursting with flavor. Serve it hot with your favorite toppings for a delightful meal that warms the heart.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels (or frozen)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 2 tsp chili powder
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and sauté chopped onion for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the pot. Brown on both sides, about 6 minutes per side.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, chicken broth, cumin powder, and chili powder. Mix well.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
- Remove the chicken; shred it using two forks and return it to the pot.
- Stir in freshly squeezed lime juice before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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