Easy Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili 🌽🍗🔥

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a comforting and flavorful soup that combines the smoky sweetness of street corn with the hearty goodness of white chicken chili, you’ve come to the right place. This Mexican chicken chili recipe is a delightful twist on traditional chili, infused with the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine and the irresistible taste of grilled corn and spices. Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, this Mexican chicken soup offers a perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and textural contrast. Plus, it’s easy to make and suitable for weeknight meals or weekend feasts.

2. Ingredients for Easy Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cooked and shredded
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Grilled corn on the cob, husked and charred (optional for extra street corn flavor)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Mexican Chicken Chili

Prepare and Cook the Chicken

First, cook the chicken breasts or thighs until fully cooked through. You can do this by boiling, baking, or sautéeing. Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Spices and Corn

Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and oregano. Stir well to coat the aromatics. Add the corn kernels and cook for 2-3 minutes to develop their flavor.

Combine and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and add the shredded chicken and white beans. Let the chili simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken slightly.

Finish with Creaminess and Lime

Stir in the sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess. Squeeze in the lime juice and adjust salt and pepper to taste. If using grilled corn, dice it off the cob and add it now for an authentic street corn flavor.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Mexican Chicken Chili

Allow the chili to cool completely then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it ideal for prep ahead of time.

5. Serving Suggestions for Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili

Serve this Mexican chicken soup hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and a squeeze of fresh lime. For an extra touch of feel-good flavor, sprinkle with crumbled queso fresco or add sliced jalapeños. Pair it with warm tortilla chips, cornbread, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I substitute the chicken for a vegetarian option?

Absolutely! You can replace chicken with plant-based proteins like tofu, tempeh, or add more beans for a hearty vegetarian Mexican chicken chili.

How long does it take to make this chili?

From start to finish, this recipe takes approximately 40-45 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

What is the best way to add authentic street corn flavor?

Char grilled corn on the cob until slightly blackened and diced it off the cob. Mixing this into the chili at the end gives it a smoky, sweet flavor reminiscent of street corn. For more tips, check out our guide on how to cook grilled corn.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, combine all ingredients (except sour cream and lime) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in sour cream and lime before serving.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Perfect for grilling corn and reheating leftovers to perfection, making this recipe even more convenient.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Essential for preparing and cooking all ingredients efficiently, ensuring you get the best flavor from your chili.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo – For quick grilling and roasting your corn or chicken, this combo elevates your cooking game.

Investing in quality kitchen tools can significantly improve your cooking experience and the final taste of your Mexican chicken chili.

8. Delicious Variations to Try

Add chopped fresh tomatoes or salsa for extra freshness.
Include chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for more heat.
Swap the white beans for black beans for a different flavor profile.
Top with shredded cheese for added richness.

9. Conclusion

This Mexican chicken chili combines the bold, smoky flavors of street corn with the creamy, comforting nature of white chicken chili. It’s versatile, quick to make, and guaranteed to impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or bringing it to a potluck, this Mexican chicken soup offers a delightful taste of Mexican street food in a hearty bowl. Try it today and enjoy the explosion of flavors with every spoonful!

Easy Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili