Name: Street Corn White Chicken Chili
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided); 1 small yellow onion (finely diced); 1 teaspoon garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon ground cumin; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups frozen corn; 1 can great northern beans (drained); 3 cups rotisserie chicken (shredded); ¼ cup cornstarch; ¼ cup cold water; 1 ½ cups sour cream; ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese (shredded); 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (about 1 lime); salt (to taste); pepper (to taste); queso fresco (crumbled); 1 medium jalapeño (diced); fresh cilantro (chopped); tortilla strips

Introduction to Street Corn White Chicken Chili

If you've ever savored the flavors of street corn, you know it's a delightful dish filled with fresh corn, creamy cheeses, lime, and spices. Now, imagine combining that deliciousness with the comforting essence of white chicken chili. It's a match made in culinary heaven!

Why Street Corn and Chili Make a Perfect Combo?

You might wonder, what’s so special about the union of street corn and chili? Let's break it down. First off, street corn brings bright, smoky flavors and texture that elevate the white chicken chili to new heights. The charred corn adds a sweetness that beautifully balances the hearty beans and tender chicken in your chili.

Additionally, the creamy elements in both dishes—like sour cream and melted cheese—serve to meld the flavors together, creating a luscious, comforting bowl perfect for any season.

In just 40 minutes, you can whip up this crowds-pleasing dish that serves 6, making it ideal for family dinners, game nights, or casual gatherings. Who can resist a bowl of warm, zesty goodness topped with fresh cilantro and queso fresco? If you're looking for an easy yet impressive meal, this is the one for you!

For more insights on flavor pairings, check out sources like the Flavor Bible for inspiration!

Ingredients for Street Corn White Chicken Chili

Essential ingredients for a flavorful chili

Creating a delightful street corn white chicken chili starts with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to craft this creamy masterpiece:

Olive oil: Essential for sautéing aromatics; it adds depth to your base.
Yellow onion: A finely diced onion will lend sweetness and aroma.
Garlic: Minced garlic elevates the flavor profile, infusing a rich taste.
Spices: Dried oregano, chili powder, and cumin bring the Southwest flair that makes this dish special.
Chicken broth: Provides a savory backdrop for your chili.
Frozen corn: Adds texture and a sweet pop, reminiscent of street corn.
Great northern beans: These beans contribute creaminess and protein.
Rotisserie chicken: For convenience and flavor, shredded chicken is perfect.
Sour cream: This creamy ingredient rounds out the chili's richness.

Optional toppings to elevate your dish

To truly take your street corn white chicken chili to the next level, consider these optional toppings:

Queso fresco: Crumbled on top, it adds a lovely creaminess.
Jalapeño: Diced for a spicy kick—perfect if you love heat.
Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of this herb brings freshness to each bite.
Tortilla strips: Crunchy strips add texture and contrast.

Thinking of serving this alongside fresh tortilla chips or a side salad? The perfect accompaniment will make this dish even more satisfying! For more tips on hosting a cozy dinner, check out this helpful guide.

Preparing Street Corn White Chicken Chili

Making the Street Corn White Chicken Chili is not just about following a recipe—it's about creating a warm, flavorful experience that warms your soul. Let’s break down the steps to achieve this comforting dish. Get ready to dive into those vibrant, southwest-inspired flavors!

Sauté the base ingredients

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, toss in a finely diced small yellow onion. Sauté it for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onion is softened and translucent. The aroma at this point will already get your taste buds tingling!

Next, add in 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, along with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and ½ teaspoon of ground cumin. Stir everything together for about a minute to really infuse those flavors into the oil. It’s incredible how a few base ingredients can start to create such a depth of flavor—this is the heart of your street corn white chicken chili.

Build the flavors with spices

Once your aromatic base is ready, it’s time to pour in 4 cups of chicken broth. This is where you’ll really start to see the chili come together. Also, keep an eye on the mixture as you bring it to a gentle simmer. While that’s happening, grab a medium skillet and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Once heated, add 2 cups of frozen corn and let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until lightly charred. This step intensifies the sweet, rustic notes of the corn, adding another layer to your street corn white chicken chili.

Simmer the soup with chicken and corn

Back to your simmering broth! Now, you can stir in 1 can of drained great northern beans, 3 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken, and the charred corn from earlier. This is where it all starts to come together, with the broth absorbing the flavors of the chicken and spices. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes—let those ingredients get cozy and meld beautifully.

Thicken with cornstarch and stir in creaminess

To give your chili that signature creamy texture, you'll want to thicken it up a bit. In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of cornstarch with ¼ cup of cold water until smooth. Stir this slurry into your simmering chili and keep it on low heat for another 8-10 minutes. Once you see it start to thicken, mix in 1 ½ cups of sour cream and ½ cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. The resulting creaminess will leave you dreaming about seconds!

Serve with your favorite toppings

Now that your street corn white chicken chili is complete, it’s time for the fun part: serving it! Ladle it into bowls and adorn with your favorite toppings. Think crumbled queso fresco, diced jalapeños, chopped fresh cilantro, and crunchy tortilla strips. These additional elements not only enhance the flavor but also the presentation of your dish.

And there you have it—a bowl of delicious street corn white chicken chili that brings the warmth of the Southwest straight to your kitchen! Enjoy!

Variations on Street Corn White Chicken Chili

Adjusting for Spice Levels

When it comes to street corn white chicken chili, everyone has different heat preferences. If you're after a milder experience, skip the jalapeños or use just a pinch of chili powder. For those who crave heat, consider adding diced serrano peppers or a splash of hot sauce during cooking. You can even top your bowl with spicy pickled jalapeños for an extra kick! Remember, you can always add more spice, but it's hard to take it away once it's in there!

Vegetarian Alternatives

Want to enjoy this delicious street corn white chicken chili without meat? You can swap the rotisserie chicken for a medley of protein-rich ingredients like chickpeas or black beans. Using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth will maintain the dish’s comforting essence. Add extra veggies like diced bell peppers or zucchini for more texture and flavor. Who says chili needs to be meaty? Embrace the plant-based delight!

Cooking Notes for Street Corn White Chicken Chili

Tips for Keeping It Creamy

To ensure your Street Corn White Chicken Chili stays wonderfully creamy, always add sour cream off the heat. Stirring it in after the chili has thickened prevents curdling, giving you that luscious texture. If you're a fan of extra creaminess, consider blending in some cream cheese or heavy cream for an indulgent twist.

Strategies for Making It Ahead

Preparing your chili in advance is a breeze! You can cook it up to two days ahead and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to reheat gently on the stove and add a splash of chicken broth or water if it thickens too much. For longer storage, this dish freezes beautifully—just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy, defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat as directed. It’s perfect for busy weeknights!

Serving suggestions for Street Corn White Chicken Chili

Best side dishes to pair

To elevate your street corn white chicken chili, consider serving it alongside refreshing and complementing side dishes. A crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette can balance the creaminess of the chili, while homemade cornbread sweetens each bite perfectly. For a fun twist, try overstuffed tacos—load up with your favorite toppings!

Creative garnish ideas

Garnishing not only enhances the visual appeal of your street corn white chicken chili, but also adds layers of flavor. Top each bowl with crumbled queso fresco for a salty kick, or sprinkle diced jalapeños for some heat. Finish with a handful of fresh cilantro for that herbaceous aroma and color. Don't forget crispy tortilla strips—they provide that delightful crunch with each spoonful!

Check out The Spruce Eats for more side dish inspirations to make your chili experience unforgettable!

Time Details for Street Corn White Chicken Chili

Planning is key for a smooth cooking experience! Here’s the breakdown for your delicious Street Corn White Chicken Chili:

Preparation Time

Spend about 20 minutes gathering ingredients, chopping veggies, and getting everything ready.

Cooking Time

The chili will simmer for approximately 20 minutes, allowing those rich flavors to blend beautifully.

Total Time

In just 40 minutes, you’ll have a hearty, flavorful meal ready to serve!

Isn't it great to know that you can whip up this cozy dish in under an hour? For more details on perfecting your chili, check out this cooking guide with tips from culinary experts. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Nutritional Information for Street Corn White Chicken Chili

Calories per Serving

Each serving of this delicious Street Corn White Chicken Chili contains approximately 478 calories. It’s a cozy, hearty meal that won’t weigh you down, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.

Protein Content

With protein-rich ingredients like shredded chicken and beans, this chili offers about 36 grams of protein per serving. That's a great boost to keep you feeling full and satisfied!

Sodium Levels

While full of flavor, the sodium content is something to consider. Each serving has around 700 mg of sodium. If you're watching your sodium intake, try using low-sodium chicken broth or rinsing the beans before adding them to the mix.

For more insights about maintaining a balanced diet, check out information from the American Heart Association. Enjoy your cooking!

FAQs about Street Corn White Chicken Chili

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If it's peak corn season, using fresh corn can elevate your street corn white chicken chili with robust flavor and texture. Simply cut the kernels off the cob and add them to the pot after sautéing. You might even want to char them in a skillet for that extra smoky flavor. Just cook it until tender, similar to how you would with the frozen variety.

How can I store leftovers?

Leftover street corn white chicken chili can be stored easily in an airtight container. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing it up. In the fridge, it will last about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months! When you're ready to enjoy it again, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

What are good alternatives for rotisserie chicken?

If you don’t have a rotisserie chicken on hand, shredded poached chicken, ground turkey, or even canned chicken can work well in this street corn white chicken chili. You can also make it vegetarian by substituting with beans or tofu, allowing you to customize this comforting dish to fit your diet.

Remember, flexibility is key in cooking! For more tips on ingredient substitutions, check out the Food Network's guide for inspiration. Happy cooking!

Conclusion on Street Corn White Chicken Chili

Embrace homemade meals without the effort!

In just 40 minutes, you can savor a hearty street corn white chicken chili that’s bursting with flavor. This comforting one-pot dish makes meal prep a breeze. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a cozy dinner that combines convenience with culinary delight. Enjoy every bite!