Street Corn Chicken Chili Recipe – Creamy Tex-Mex Chicken Chili with Corn & Cheese
This Street Corn Chicken Chili is a bold fusion of Mexican street corn and classic white chicken chili—creamy, zesty, and loaded with flavor. Tender chicken simmers with sweet corn, jalapeños, green chiles, sour cream, and pepper jack cheese in a rich broth infused with cumin, garlic, and lime. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for cozy dinners, game day gatherings, or meal prep. Top it with cotija cheese, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a fiesta in every spoonful. Easy to make and impossible to resist!
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Ladle
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped
- 1½ tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- ½ cup cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 can white beans (optional), drained and rinsed
- Juice of 1 lime
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- Cotija cheese, avocado, tortilla strips for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and jalapeño. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Brown the Corn Stir in corn and cook until lightly charred, about 5–7 minutes.
- Simmer the Base Add shredded chicken, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10–15 minutes.
- Add Creamy Elements Reduce heat. Stir in sour cream and cream cheese (if using). Add beans if desired. Simmer gently until thickened—do not boil.
- Finish and Serve Stir in lime juice and cilantro. Let rest 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with cotija, avocado, and tortilla strips
Notes
- For extra heat, add chipotle peppers or cayenne
- Make it vegetarian with black beans and zucchini
- Freeze without dairy; stir in cream when reheating
- Great for meal prep—flavors deepen overnight
- Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips, or rice
- Customize with a toppings bar for gatherings