Name: Irresistible Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Substitution: Avocado oil can be used for a different flavor.); 1 medium Onion (Dice finely for even cooking.); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced for quick incorporation.); 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (Substitution: Cooked shredded chicken can be used for convenience.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin (Essential for authenticity.); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Substitution: Regular paprika can be used.); 1 teaspoon Chili Powder (Adjust quantity for desired spiciness.); Salt (Adjust according to taste.); Black Pepper; 4 cups Chicken Broth (Substitution: Vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.); 15 ounces White Beans (Rinse to reduce sodium.); 2 cups Frozen Corn (Substitution: Use fresh grilled corn for added flavor.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Substitution: Full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version.); 1 cup Fresh Cilantro (Substitution: Parsley can be used if cilantro is undesirable.); 1 tablespoon Lime Juice (Fresh juice is preferred.); Crumbled Queso Fresco; Avocado Slices; Lime Wedges

As the sizzling sounds of the summer fair fade into memory, I find myself longing for the irresistible flavors of Mexican street corn. This Quick & Creamy Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili brings that vibrant taste right to my kitchen, turning sweet corn, tender chicken, and zesty lime into a flavorful embrace on chilly evenings. With just 30 minutes of prep using a pressure cooker, it’s the perfect remedy for busy weeknights when you desire comfort food without the wait. Not only is it a spectacular crowd-pleaser, but it’s also rich in protein and fiber, making it a wholesome choice for the entire family. Ready to whip up a bowl of this creamy goodness and delight your taste buds? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is this chili a must-try?

Comforting, creamy delight: Each bowl of this Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili offers a warm hug, melding the richness of white beans and cream with the fresh sweetness of corn.

Quick and easy: In just 30 minutes, you can create a meal perfect for busy weeknights, without sacrificing flavor.

Versatile options: Feel free to swap out the white beans for black beans or add in your favorite spices to customize the heat level to your liking.

Crowd-pleasing characteristics: This chili is designed to satisfy everyone at your table, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings.

Plus, if you’re a fan of Mexican-inspired flavors, don’t forget to check out my delicious Hawaiian Chicken Sheet and Grilled Chicken Broccoli recipes for more comforting meals!

Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili Ingredients

• A delightful mix awaits you!

For the Base

Olive Oil – Adds moisture and helps sauté aromatics. Substitution: Avocado oil can be used for a different flavor.
Onion – Provides sweetness and depth to the chili. Preparation Note: Dice finely for even cooking.
Garlic – Enhances flavor with its aromatic qualities. Preparation Note: Minced for quick incorporation.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – The main protein component; tender and mild in flavor. Substitution: Cooked shredded chicken can be used for convenience.

For Flavor

Ground Cumin – Adds an earthy, warm flavor. Notes: Essential for authenticity in the Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili.
Smoked Paprika – Provides smokiness and depth. Substitution: Regular paprika can be used if smoke flavor is not needed.
Chili Powder – Infuses heat and an extra layer of flavor. Preparation Note: Adjust quantity for desired spiciness.
Salt – Enhances overall flavor. Preparation Note: Adjust according to taste.
Black Pepper – Adds subtle heat and flavor.

For the Chili

Chicken Broth – The liquid base that adds depth and savoriness. Substitution: Vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
White Beans – Contribute creaminess and fiber. Preparation Note: Rinse to reduce sodium.
Frozen Corn – Provides sweetness and texture. Substitution: Use fresh grilled corn for added flavor.
Heavy Cream – Adds richness and creaminess. Substitution: Full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

For Freshness

Fresh Cilantro – Brightens the chili with a fresh herb flavor. Substitution: Parsley can be used if cilantro is undesirable.
Lime Juice – Adds acidity to balance flavors. Notes: Fresh juice is preferred for brightness.

Optional Toppings

Crumbled Queso Fresco – Enhances freshness and presentation.
Avocado Slices – Provide creaminess and a cooling effect.
Lime Wedges – Perfect for an extra burst of flavor.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add 1 finely diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and fragrant. This foundational step enriches your Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili with sweetness, laying the groundwork for the flavors to unfold.

Step 2: Add Garlic
Next, stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, cooking for an additional 1 minute until the garlic becomes aromatic. Be careful not to let it brown, as this can introduce a bitterness to your dish. This step is key to enhancing the flavor profile of your chili, building upon the sweetness of the onion.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Incorporate 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, breaking them into pieces as you stir. Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon each of ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder, along with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink and has absorbed the wonderful spices, creating a mouthwatering base for your Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili.

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, stirring to combine. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to tenderize and the flavors to meld beautifully. The simmering broth enriches the chili, achieving that deeply satisfying depth of flavor you crave.

Step 5: Incorporate Beans and Corn
After simmering, add a can of rinsed white beans (15 ounces) and 2 cups of frozen corn to the pot. Stir gently and let the chili simmer for another 5 minutes. This addition not only enhances the creaminess but also infuses the chili with sweet pops of corn that mirror the deliciousness of Mexican street corn.

Step 6: Finish with Cream and Lime
To finish, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and a handful of chopped fresh cilantro, followed by the juice of 1 fresh lime. Mix well and taste, adjusting the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if necessary. This step introduces a velvety richness to your Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili, pairing beautifully with the zesty lime.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with optional toppings like crumbled queso fresco, avocado slices, and lime wedges. Serve hot for a comforting meal that showcases the warmth of homemade flavors. Each bowl of this chili is a celebration of Mexican cuisine, warming your heart and filling your belly!

Make Ahead Options

These Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili make-ahead options are ideal for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the entire chili base up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the fridge. Simply follow the recipe instructions but stop before adding the heavy cream and lime juice. Refrigerate the cooled chili in an airtight container; when ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove and stir in the cream and lime juice before garnishing. This method not only saves time but ensures your chili remains just as delicious and comforting on serving day!

How to Store and Freeze Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili

Fridge: Store any leftover chili in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth for creaminess if needed.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions of the Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the chili on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Stir well and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Airtight Containers: Use BPA-free plastic or glass containers to keep your chili fresh and flavorful during storage, ensuring the lid is securely sealed.

Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and personalize it to your taste, bringing new dimensions of flavor and texture to your chili.

Black Beans: Swap white beans for black beans for a deeper flavor and a beautiful color contrast.
Spicy Twist: Add diced poblano or jalapeño peppers for an extra kick of heat, balancing the creaminess beautifully.
Meat Options: Try using shredded rotisserie chicken or even cooked turkey if you prefer different poultry options that still give you that tender texture.
Corn Fiesta: Replace frozen corn with fresh grilled corn off the cob. This will intensify the sweetness and bring a delightful smoky flavor.
Herb Swap: If cilantro isn’t your favorite, feel free to substitute with fresh parsley or even green onions for that fresh finish.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a creamy, dairy-free twist that still delivers a rich texture.
Seasoning Boost: Enhance the spice profile by tossing in chipotle powder or smoked salt, creating a more complex flavor experience.

Making these adjustments will elevate your bowl of chili to new heights. And for more inspiration, don’t miss my delicious Hawaiian Chicken Sheet and Grilled Chicken Broccoli recipes, which showcase the rich, comforting flavors of home-cooked meals!

What to Serve with Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili

As the comforting aroma of this chili fills your kitchen, it’s time to think about delightful accompaniments that elevate your meal experience.

Tortilla Chips: The crunch of tortilla chips adds a satisfying texture contrast, perfect for scooping up the creamy chili.
Avocado Salad: A refreshing avocado salad brightens the meal with creamy, cool notes that balance the chili’s heat.
Mexican Rice: Fluffy Mexican rice complements the chili with its subtle flavors, making for a filling and hearty combination.
Cilantro Lime Rice: This aromatic rice brings an extra burst of freshness, echoing the chili’s zesty lime and cilantro notes.
Cornbread Muffins: Sweet and moist cornbread muffins add warmth and comfort, harmonizing wonderfully with the creamy chili.
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables provide a satisfying crunch and earthy taste that pairs beautifully with the chili’s richness.
Cheesy Quesadillas: Soft, cheesy quesadillas can be a fun, cheesy side option, perfect for dipping into your bowl of chili.
Pineapple Agua Fresca: Quench your thirst with a chilled pineapple agua fresca. Its sweetness balances the flavors and adds a refreshing twist.
Churros: End your meal on a sweet note with churros, offering a delightful crunchy exterior and soft, doughy inside that pairs marvelously with a cup of hot chocolate.

Expert Tips for Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili

Avoid Garlic Bitterness: Ensure not to let your garlic brown during Step 2, as this can make your chili taste bitter.
Customize the Heat: If you prefer a spicier twist, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick in Step 3.
Quick Pressure Cooker Tips: When using a pressure cooker, opt for a quick release to retain the crispness of your vegetables while allowing for a slow release thickens the chili beautifully.
Storing Leftovers: Keep chili leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days, or freeze portions for up to 3 months to enjoy this comforting Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili later.
Topping Variations: Experiment with your favorite toppings! Crumbled queso fresco, fresh avocado slices, or zesty lime wedges can elevate your chili’s presentation and flavor.

Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili Recipe FAQs

What type of corn should I use for the Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili?
I recommend using frozen corn for convenience, as it offers a sweet burst of flavor. However, if you want to elevate the dish, feel free to grill fresh corn on the cob and cut the kernels off for an even more vibrant taste.

How should I store leftovers of the Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, make sure to cool the chili slightly before transferring it to the container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a pot on the stove or in the microwave, maybe adding a splash of chicken broth for that creamy touch!

Can I freeze the Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili?
Absolutely! You can freeze portions of the chili in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot.

What should I do if my chili is too thick?
If your chili turns out thicker than you’d like, don’t worry; it’s an easy fix! Simply add a bit of chicken broth or water, stirring well until you’ve reached your desired consistency. This will keep the flavor intact while ensuring each bite remains delightful and creamy!

Is this chili suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
The Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili can be made gluten-free by ensuring your broth and any toppings are gluten-free. For a dairy-free version, swap the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk, which still gives that rich, creamy texture. Always check for allergies, especially to corn and dairy, when serving guests or family members.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, using canned white beans is a fantastic alternative! Just make sure to rinse and drain them before adding them to your chili. This not only saves you time but helps cut down on sodium levels, making your delicious Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili even healthier!