A Creamy, Spiced Twist on Classic Chili
This Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili is a rich, comforting dish that blends tender shredded chicken, creamy white beans, and the bold flavors of cumin, paprika, and jalapeño. Topped with sour cream, lime, and tortilla strips, it’s a hearty one-pot meal perfect for cool evenings, game nights, or whenever you crave something smoky and savory.
A modern take on street corn, now in chili form!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🌽 Street Corn Flair: Lime, cotija, and chili powder mimic the flavors of elote.
- 🥣 Creamy Base: White beans and corn thicken the broth naturally—no flour or roux needed.
- 🧀 Cheesy Finish: Sour cream and cream cheese create a silky, indulgent texture.
- ⏱️ Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour—ideal for weeknight meals.
- 🎉 Great for Sharing: Perfect at potlucks, family dinners, or packed lunches.
Ingredients (Serves 6):
For the Chili:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or shredded rotisserie chicken)
- 1 yellow onion , chopped (or white onion if preferred)
- 1 jalapeño , diced (remove seeds for milder heat – or add another for extra spice)
- 2 cloves garlic , minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans , drained and rinsed (cannellini or navy beans work best)
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned – drain liquid if using canned)
- 1 tsp ground cumin (or smoked paprika for extra depth)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (adds warmth and color)
- ½ tsp chili powder (or chipotle for smokier heat)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for lighter flavor)
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- ½ cup cream cheese , softened (or vegan cream cheese for dairy-free)
- Salt and black pepper , to taste
- Juice of 1 lime (for tangy brightness)
For Serving (Optional):
- Fresh cilantro , chopped
- Avocado slices
- Crumbled cotija or feta cheese
- Tortilla strips for crunch
- Lime wedges or hot sauce for extra zing
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat .
Add onion, jalapeño, and garlic . Cook for 3–4 minutes , stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Place chicken breasts in the pot and season with cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper .
Pour in chicken broth , bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Remove chicken and shred with two forks. Return shredded chicken to the pot.
Step 4: Add Beans & Corn
Stir in white beans and corn kernels . Simmer for 10 minutes to infuse flavors.
Step 5: Stir in Creamy Additions
Off the heat, mix in sour cream and cream cheese until smooth.
Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lime juice to taste.
Step 6: Serve with Street Corn Flair
Ladle chili into bowls and top with:
- Cilantro for freshness
- Avocado slices for creaminess
- Cotija cheese for saltiness
- Tortilla strips for crunch
Each bite brings together:
- Tender, seasoned chicken shreds
- Sweet, juicy corn kernels
- Earthy, creamy white bean richness
- Smoky, spicy chili finish
Tips for Success:
- 🥣 Use Leftover Chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken.
- 🧈 Don’t Boil the Cream: Add sour cream and cream cheese off the heat to prevent curdling.
- 🌶️ Spice Hack: For extra kick, stir in 1–2 tbsp adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers.
- 🥦 Add Greens: Stir in chopped spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
- ❄️ Make Ahead Magic: Reheats beautifully—store in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze for later.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with warm tortillas, rice, or a green salad for a full meal.
- Great with beer, iced tea, or a cold glass of horchata.
- Ideal for tailgates, school lunches, or cozy dinners.
Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 6 – approximate):
(With regular cream cheese and chicken – per bowl)
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Protein: ~25g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
- Fat: ~18g
- Fiber: ~5g
- Sugar: ~6g
This Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili proves that chili doesn’t have to be red to be unforgettable. With its creamy base, bold spices, and street corn-inspired toppings—it’s a must-cook for lovers of hearty, flavorful dishes.