Street Corn Chicken Casserole

Introduction

Street Corn Chicken Casserole is a warm and creamy dish that combines the flavors of classic street corn with tender shredded chicken. This casserole is not only delicious but also easy to make. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or anytime you want to enjoy a tasty meal with minimal effort.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Street Corn Chicken Casserole is a great choice for several reasons. First, it brings together comforting ingredients like chicken, corn, and creamy sauces, all topped with crunchy tortilla chips. It’s a delightful twist on traditional flavors that everyone loves. Additionally, this recipe allows you to use up leftover chicken and is a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. With its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture, this casserole will quickly become a family favorite.

How to Make Street Corn Chicken Casserole

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
1/2 cup frozen fire-roasted corn (optional)
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Juice of 1 lime
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (plus extra for topping)
1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup crushed tortilla chips (for topping)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, corn (both canned and fire-roasted), sour cream, mayonnaise, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, lime juice, cilantro, cotija cheese, and half of the shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbling.
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with crushed tortilla chips, and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
Garnish with extra chopped cilantro and cotija cheese, serve hot.

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Casserole

Serve this delightful casserole hot from the oven. It pairs well with a side salad or some avocado slices. You can also add extra cilantro or lime wedges on the side for added freshness. This dish is great for serving a crowd, making it perfect for parties or family gatherings.

How to Store Street Corn Chicken Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Tips to Make Street Corn Chicken Casserole

Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and tasty shredded chicken option.
Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. If you like it spicier, add more chili powder or include some diced jalapeños.
For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with black beans or extra vegetables.

Variation

You can customize this casserole by adding other ingredients, such as diced bell peppers or chopped green onions. You can also switch up the cheese types to create your own unique flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and then bake it just before serving.

2. Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh corn works great in this recipe. Just make sure to cook it first.

3. How do I reheat leftovers?
You can reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes or until heated through. You can also use a microwave.

Enjoy your delicious Street Corn Chicken Casserole! It’s a comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone at your table.