Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili



Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Bold & Zesty : Packed with the smoky, tangy flavors of Mexican street corn—lime, chili powder, and cotija cheese.
  2. Creamy & Comforting : The combination of cream cheese and broth creates a velvety, satisfying texture.
  3. Quick & Easy : Ready in under 30 minutes with simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients.
  4. Customizable : Adjust the spice level or add toppings to make it your own.
  5. Kid-Friendly : Even picky eaters will love the creamy, cheesy goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Serves 4–6

For the Chili:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts , diced into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 medium onion , diced
  • 3 cloves garlic , minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) white beans , drained and rinsed (cannellini or Great Northern beans work well)
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels , drained (or 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen corn)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
  • 4 oz cream cheese , softened and cubed
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper , to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime

For Toppings:

  • Crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)
  • Fresh cilantro , chopped
  • Lime wedges , for serving
  • Optional Add-Ons : Avocado slices, tortilla strips, sour cream, or hot sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin. Cook for 5–7 minutes , until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

  1. In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes , until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute , until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Chili Base

  1. Add the chicken broth, white beans, corn, heavy cream, and cream cheese to the pot. Stir until the cream cheese melts and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
  2. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir to combine. Season with smoked paprika, additional chili powder if desired, and a squeeze of lime juice. Simmer for 10–15 minutes , allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning

  1. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more lime juice as needed.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Ladle the chili into bowls and top with crumbled cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Add optional toppings like avocado slices, tortilla strips, or sour cream for extra flair.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Street Corn Magic : Lime, chili powder, and cotija cheese bring the iconic flavors of elote to this comforting chili.
  • Cream Cheese Base : Adds richness and creaminess without needing heavy cream sauces.
  • White Beans & Corn : Provide texture and sweetness, balancing the savory and spicy elements.

Variations to Try

  • Add Heat : Stir in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra spice.
  • Vegetarian Option : Swap chicken with roasted cauliflower or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
  • Gluten-Free Option : Naturally gluten-free—just ensure your broth is GF-friendly.
  • Spice It Up : Use chipotle powder or adobo sauce for a smoky kick.
  • Extra Veggies : Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t Overcook the Chicken : Remove it from the pot once cooked to prevent drying out, then return it to the chili to warm through.
  • Topping Ideas : Experiment with toppings like crushed tortilla chips, pickled jalapeños, or a dollop of guacamole.
  • Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Serving Suggestions

  • Romantic Touch : Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for elegance.
  • Brunch Staple : Pair with cornbread, quesadillas, or a side salad for a complete meal.
  • Party Platter : Serve alongside tacos, enchiladas, or nachos for variety.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili is a celebration of bold, zesty flavors and creamy textures, offering a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable. With its quick prep time, customizable options, and endless charm, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a casual snack, or simply craving something satisfying.

Your Turn! Have you ever made chili or experimented with Mexican-inspired recipes? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below. 🍴