This Street Corn Chicken Casserole combines the bold, zesty flavors of Mexican street corn with tender shredded chicken for a creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, this casserole is loaded with flavor and topped with crispy breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch. It’s comfort food at its finest!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Creamy & Cheesy: A rich blend of mayonnaise, sour cream, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese creates a decadent base.
- Flavorful Twist: Chili powder, paprika, and lime juice bring the vibrant taste of street corn to every bite.
- Easy to Customize: Add jalapeños, bacon, or black beans for extra flair.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced, rotisserie chicken works well )
- 1 (15 oz) can of corn kernels , drained (or 2 cups frozen corn, thawed )
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided )
- 1 cup cream cheese , softened
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat )
- 1–2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed )
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish )
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping )
- Salt and pepper , to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven 🔥
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken 🍗
- If using rotisserie chicken , shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
- If cooking your own chicken, bake or grill it until fully cooked, then shred or dice it into small pieces. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Casserole Base 🥄
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise , sour cream , cream cheese , chili powder , paprika , cayenne pepper (if using ), and lime juice . Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole 🥣
- Fold in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese , the cooked chicken , and the corn kernels into the creamy mixture until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5: Add Toppings 🧀🍞
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Evenly distribute the breadcrumbs on top for a crispy, golden finish.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole 🍳
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes , or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve 🍋🍴
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve warm and enjoy as a standalone dish or with tortilla chips, rice, or a side salad.
Tips for Success:
- Add Heat: Stir in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Make It Heartier: Mix in black beans, diced bell peppers, or crumbled bacon for added texture and flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Freeze Option: Freeze the assembled casserole (without baking) for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 8):
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: ~25g
- Carbohydrates: ~20g
- Fat: ~30g
Enjoy this Street Corn Chicken Casserole as a flavorful, comforting dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week. Its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and zesty street corn-inspired flavors make it a standout meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Pair it with your favorite sides and dig in!