As the aroma of sizzling onions and spicy jalapeños wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but smile. Today, I’m diving into the delightful world of Street Corn Chicken Chili, a comforting one-pot meal that captures the essence of cozy gatherings and vibrant flavors. This easy recipe marries the creamy goodness of white chicken chili with the zesty freshness of Mexican street corn, making it a true crowd-pleaser. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients and can be ready in a flash, perfect for those weeknights when you crave something special yet quick. Plus, it’s perfect for game day or a warm family dinner. Are you ready to elevate your chili game and impress your loved ones? Let’s get cooking! Why Is This Chili So Irresistible? Comforting Warmth: This creamy Corn Chicken Chili envelops you in its warm, hearty embrace, perfect for cozy nights in. Bursting with Flavor: The combination of spices, fresh corn, and tender chicken creates a mouthwatering flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Easy One-Pot Wonder: Simplify your meal prep without sacrificing taste—just one pot does it all! Crowd-Pleaser Appeal: Whether it’s game day or a family gathering, this dish guarantees pleased palates all around. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in veggies or adjust the heat level; this recipe is your canvas! Quick to Prepare: In just under an hour, you can whip up this delightful dish, making it a fantastic choice for busy evenings. With uplifting flavors and delightful textures, this chili is destined to become a favorite in your home. Pair it with some tortilla chips for a complete meal or serve alongside a warm slice of cornbread for extra comfort. Enjoy! Corn Chicken Chili Ingredients • Note: Gather these fresh ingredients to create your flavorful Corn Chicken Chili. For the Chili Base Olive Oil – Sautéing fat that brings richness; substitute with avocado oil for a different flavor. Onion – The base flavor of your chili; yellow or white onion adds just the right touch of sweetness. Jalapeno Peppers – Adds heat and flavor; adjust the quantity to suit your spice preference. Corn on the Cob – Sweetness and texture; fresh corn shines best, but frozen can save the day in a pinch. Kosher Salt & Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavors; remember to taste and adjust as you go. Garlic – Freshly minced garlic deepens the aromatic profile; don’t skip this for a flavor boost. Ground Chicken – The protein base; feel free to use shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey for ease. Chili Powder – The primary seasoning; consider your heat preference when choosing between mild or hot blends. Paprika – Contributes deep flavor and color; smoky paprika adds extra richness to the dish. Cumin – The earthy undertone that’s crucial for chili flavor and warmth. Chicken Broth – The liquid base that carries all the flavors; vegetable broth is a great gluten-free alternative. Beer (optional) – Adds depth and complexity; if you prefer not to use alcohol, simply swap for more broth. Chicken Base – Intensifies flavor; products like “Better Than Bouillon” pack a punch of savory goodness. For Finishing Touches Hot Sauce – Customize the spice; use your favorite to add a kick. Sour Cream – Provides creaminess and tang; Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative here. Chopped Cilantro – A burst of freshness to garnish; if cilantro isn’t your thing, fresh parsley works too. Lime Juice – Brightness and acidity; fresh lime juice is ideal, but bottled can suffice for a quick fix. Optional Toppings Crumbled Cotija Cheese – A delicious dairy accompaniment that enhances the dish; feta can also do the trick. Chili Powder – Sprinkle more on top for extra flavor and color. Lime Wedges – Always a hit for squeezing over the top right before eating! Gather these ingredients to embark on your journey to a warm, flavorful Corn Chicken Chili experience! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Corn Chicken Chili Step 1: Sauté the Base In a large soup pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add 1 diced onion and 1-2 chopped jalapeño peppers. Season with kosher salt and pepper, cooking for about 7-9 minutes until the onion is translucent and the peppers are tender. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture starts to release a fragrant aroma. Step 2: Add Chicken and Spices Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 pound of ground chicken into the pot. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1 teaspoon of cumin. Break up the chicken with a wooden spoon and cook for an additional 7-9 minutes, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally to combine all the flavors. Step 3: Pour in the Liquid Next, add 4 cups of chicken broth, 1 cup of beer (if using), and 1 tablespoon of chicken base. Increase the heat to high until the mixture starts to boil, then reduce to medium-low. Allow the corn chicken chili to simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chili will thicken slightly, and the flavors will meld beautifully. Step 4: Finish the Chili After simmering, incorporate 2 tablespoons of hot sauce, ½ cup of sour cream, and juice from 1 lime into the chili. Stir well to combine everything, then let the chili simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary; the chili should be creamy and beautifully flavored, with the taste of fresh ingredients shining through. Step 5: Serve and Garnish Ladle the warm corn chicken chili into bowls and top with optional garnishes such as crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and additional lime wedges. Serve with tortilla chips or warm cornbread on the side for a comforting, complete meal. Enjoy the hearty goodness and vibrant flavors that make this corn chicken chili a crowd-pleaser! What to Serve with Street Corn Chicken Chili? Enjoy this hearty chili as the centerpiece of a comforting meal that warms the soul. Tortilla Chips: The perfect crunchy counterpart, these chips are great for scooping up every delicious bite of chili. Warm Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread adds a delightful contrast to the spicy creaminess of the chili. Avocado Salad: Bright flavors from fresh avocados, tomatoes, and lime enhance your meal, adding refreshing contrasts to the rich chili. Coleslaw: Crisp, tangy slaw balances the chili’s warmth, adding texture and a pop of color to your plate. Mexican Rice: Fluffy and well-seasoned rice complements the chili beautifully, making the meal more filling while highlighting layers of flavor. Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream brings extra creaminess and tang, elevating the dish to new heights. Beer or Aguas Frescas: Pair with a cold beer or refreshing aguas frescas for a nice balance against the chili’s warmth. Key Lime Pie: End the meal on a sweet note; this tangy dessert perfectly echoes the lime flavors present in the chili. How to Store and Freeze Corn Chicken Chili Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Always allow the chili to cool before sealing for best preservation. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chili in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes. Reheating: Reheat frozen corn chicken chili in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess if needed. Heat until piping hot throughout. Airtight: Ensure the container is well-sealed to prevent freezer burn and maintain the chili’s rich flavors and textures over time. Expert Tips for Corn Chicken Chili Fresh Corn Advantage: Using fresh corn on the cob enhances sweetness and texture. If using frozen, ensure it’s fully thawed for even cooking. Adjust the Heat: Modify the number of jalapeños based on your spice tolerance. Always taste as you go to prevent over-spicing. Leftover Love: This corn chicken chili tastes even better the next day! Store it in an airtight container, and it allows the flavors to meld further. Cooking Chicken: Ensure the ground chicken is well-cooked and crumbled for a uniform texture. This step is key for a creamy corn chicken chili. Simmer for Flavor: Allow the chili to simmer longer if time permits; this will deepen flavor complexity and create a comforting aroma. Substitute Smartly: If you’re cooking for vegetarian guests, consider swapping the ground chicken for black beans or chickpeas without losing any heartiness. Make Ahead Options These Street Corn Chicken Chili preparations are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can chop the onion, jalapenos, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can cook the entire chili up to 3 days ahead—just cool it completely before refrigerating it. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the chili on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore its creamy texture. This way, you’ll have a comforting, delicious meal ready with minimal effort, perfect for those hectic weeknights! Corn Chicken Chili Variations & Substitutions Feel free to put your own spin on this delicious corn chicken chili and make it uniquely yours! Vegetarian: Swap ground chicken for black beans or chickpeas, using vegetable broth for a lighter, meatless option. You’ll keep all that creamy goodness while providing a hearty, plant-based meal. Gluten-Free: Ensure you use gluten-free beer or omit it altogether. Stick to gluten-free broth and you’ll be set to enjoy this dish safely. Spicy Kick: Add diced habanero or serrano peppers for a fiery twist that will certainly awaken your taste buds. Adjust the quantity based on your spice tolerance! Creamy Variation: For extra creaminess, mix in more sour cream or cream cheese right before serving. This will elevate the richness and make every bite even more indulgent. Flavor Infusion: Stir in a tablespoon of lime zest alongside the juice for a vibrant citrus accent that brightens the overall flavor. Texture Twists: Use roasted corn from the grill for a smoky flavor and a delightful crunch. This subtle change can transport your chili to new flavor heights. Herb Alternatives: Don’t like cilantro? Fresh parsley or green onions are fantastic substitutes that will still give your chili a fresh touch. Beer Substitute: If you’re avoiding alcohol, replace the beer with additional chicken broth or even a splash of apple cider vinegar for tanginess without losing depth. For even more flavorful inspirations, consider pairing this with our Fiery Chicken Ramen or enjoy a classic comforting bowl of Butter Chicken Wow. No matter how you choose to customize it, this chili is bound to impress your family and friends! Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe FAQs What kind of corn should I use for this recipe? I recommend using fresh corn on the cob for the sweetest, most vibrant flavor. However, if fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn will work just as well—just make sure it’s fully thawed before adding it to the pot. How long can I store the leftovers? You can store your corn chicken chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow the chili to cool completely before sealing to maintain its delicious flavors and creamy texture. Can I freeze corn chicken chili? Absolutely! To freeze, let the chili cool and then transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. What if my chili is too spicy? If your chili turns out spicier than you intended, don’t worry! You can balance the heat by adding more sour cream or chicken broth to mellow the flavors. Alternatively, a little sugar can help tone down the spice and enhance the sweetness. Can this chili be made gluten-free? Yes! To make your corn chicken chili gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free beer, or simply omit it altogether. You can also opt for a gluten-free chicken broth to keep everything safe for those with gluten sensitivities. Can I add other vegetables or beans? The more the merrier! Feel free to add in some black beans, diced bell peppers, or even zucchini to customize your chili based on what you have. Just remember that cooking times may vary, so add heartier veggies earlier in the cooking process. Creamy Corn Chicken Chili for Cozy Nights In This Creamy Corn Chicken Chili is perfect for cozy nights, packed with flavors and easy to prepare. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 6 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: MexicanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Chili Base2 tablespoons Olive Oil substitute with avocado oil for a different flavor1 medium Onion diced; yellow or white onion adds sweetness1-2 pieces Jalapeno Peppers chopped; adjust quantity to taste4 ears Corn on the Cob fresh preferred, frozen acceptable1 teaspoon Kosher Salt to taste1 teaspoon Black Pepper to taste3 cloves Garlic freshly minced1 pound Ground Chicken can use shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey2 tablespoons Chili Powder adjust for heat preference1 teaspoon Paprika smoky paprika adds richness1 teaspoon Cumin for earthy undertones4 cups Chicken Broth or vegetable broth for gluten-free1 cup Beer optional; substitute with more broth if desired1 tablespoon Chicken Base like 'Better Than Bouillon'Finishing Touches2 tablespoons Hot Sauce to taste½ cup Sour Cream or Greek yogurt1 tablespoon Chopped Cilantro for garnish; parsley can substitute1 tablespoon Lime Juice fresh preferred, bottled acceptableOptional Toppings¼ cup Crumbled Cotija Cheese or feta1 teaspoon Chili Powder for extra flavor2 pieces Lime Wedges for squeezing over the top Equipment large soup pot Method Base PreparationIn a large soup pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and 1-2 chopped jalapeño peppers, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 7-9 minutes until the onion is translucent.Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 pound of ground chicken. Add 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1 teaspoon of cumin. Cook for 7-9 minutes until the chicken is browned.Simmering the ChiliAdd 4 cups of chicken broth, 1 cup of beer, and 1 tablespoon of chicken base. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes.Finishing StepsStir in 2 tablespoons of hot sauce, ½ cup of sour cream, and juice from 1 lime. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary.Ladle the chili into bowls and top with optional garnishes such as crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges. Serve with tortilla chips or cornbread. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the chili in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!