Introduction
Mexican street corn white chicken chili is a comforting bowl of warmth that blends creamy texture with vibrant, zesty flavor. This recipe takes inspiration from classic elote and transforms it into a hearty chili that feels both familiar and exciting. I first made this chili when I wanted something different from traditional tomato-based versions, and it quickly became a favorite. The sweetness of corn, the tenderness of chicken, and the gentle heat from spices come together in a way that feels indulgent without being heavy. What really makes this dish special is its balance. It is creamy but not overwhelming, flavorful without being too spicy, and filling while still feeling fresh. Whether you serve it for a casual family dinner or a relaxed gathering with friends, this chili is satisfying, crowd-pleasing, and surprisingly easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chili is rich, creamy, and packed with layers of flavor. It comes together with simple ingredients and does not require long cooking time. It is versatile, reheats well, and can easily be adjusted for spice level or dietary needs.
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Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili That’s Creamy, Cozy, and Bold
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A creamy and comforting white chicken chili inspired by Mexican street corn, made with tender chicken, sweet corn, warm spices, and a rich, cheesy broth.
Ingredients
- 500 g boneless skinless chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (400 g) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add corn, white beans, and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.
- Stir in heavy cream, sour cream, and shredded cheese.
- Simmer for another 5 minutes until creamy and well combined.
- Remove from heat, stir in lime juice and cilantro, and serve warm.
Notes
- Grilled corn adds extra street corn flavor.
- Adjust chili powder for more or less heat.
- Top with extra cheese or tortilla strips before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ingredients Breakdown
Chicken Breast
Chicken breast provides lean protein and becomes tender as it simmers in the chili. It absorbs the surrounding flavors beautifully and makes the dish hearty.
Sweet Corn
Corn adds natural sweetness and texture, echoing the flavors of Mexican street corn. Both fresh and frozen corn work well.
White Beans
White beans add creaminess and body to the chili while increasing its protein and fiber content.
Onion
Onion forms the aromatic base of the chili, adding mild sweetness and depth.
Garlic
Garlic enhances the savory notes and complements the spices without overpowering them.
Chicken Broth
Chicken broth creates the base of the chili, keeping it light while carrying flavor throughout the dish.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese is key to the chili’s creamy texture, giving it richness without heaviness.
Green Chilies
Green chilies add gentle heat and a subtle tang that balances the creaminess.
Cumin
Cumin provides warmth and an earthy note that grounds the flavors.
Chili Powder
Chili powder adds mild heat and complexity without making the chili overly spicy.
Salt and Black Pepper
These seasonings bring balance and enhance all the other ingredients.
Lime Juice
Lime juice adds brightness and freshness, lifting the overall flavor of the chili.
Cilantro
Cilantro provides a fresh, herbal finish that complements the corn and spices.
Directions
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil and sauté the onion until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Stir in the chicken breast, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for a few minutes until the chicken is lightly browned on the outside.
Pour in the chicken broth and add the white beans, corn, and green chilies. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Add lime juice and adjust seasoning if needed. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes before serving.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, cooking time is 30 minutes, and total time is about 45 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if the chili thickens too much.
Variations and Customizations
This chili is very adaptable. For extra heat, add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you prefer a lighter version, reduce the amount of cream cheese or replace part of it with Greek yogurt. You can also use rotisserie chicken to save time, adding it after the beans and corn are heated through.
For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add extra beans or diced zucchini. Roasted corn can be used for deeper flavor, and smoked paprika can add a subtle smoky note. Toppings such as avocado, shredded cheese, or tortilla strips can also be added to customize each bowl.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbs | 28 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 760 mg |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Sauté spices briefly to enhance their flavor.
Shred chicken finely for even distribution.
Add cream cheese gradually for smoother texture.
Finish with lime juice just before serving for brightness.
FAQs
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day.
Can I freeze this chili?
Yes, freeze for up to three months, though the texture may change slightly.
Is this chili spicy?
It is mildly spiced, but heat can be increased easily.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, add it after the broth is simmering.
What can I serve with this chili?
It pairs well with cornbread or tortilla chips.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cream cheese alternatives.
Can I use frozen corn?
Yes, frozen corn works perfectly.
How do I thicken the chili?
Simmer uncovered or mash some of the beans.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it is naturally gluten-free.
Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on low for 6 to 7 hours.
Conclusion
Mexican street corn white chicken chili is a creamy, flavorful twist on classic chili that brings comfort and bold taste to the table. With its simple preparation, adaptable ingredients, and satisfying texture, it is a recipe you will want to make again whenever you need a warm, reliable, and delicious meal.
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