Street Corn Chicken Casserole Recipe

Street Corn Chicken Casserole is the kind of recipe that earns trust through repetition. The more often you make it, the more intuitive it becomes.

There’s no pressure to get everything perfect—just a steady process that guides you along. It’s this ease that makes the recipe worth returning to.

Looking for satisfying meal ideas? Discover our dinner recipes designed for comforting family meals and effortless weeknight cooking.

What is Street Corn Chicken Casserole?

The Street Corn Chicken Casserole is a delightful fusion dish inspired by the popular Mexican street food known as elote. This casserole combines the rich flavors of grilled corn, creamy ingredients, and tender chicken, creating a hearty meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. The dish reflects the vibrant culinary traditions of Mexico, where street vendors serve corn on the cob slathered in mayonnaise, cheese, and spices. By transforming these flavors into a casserole, we bring a taste of the streets into our homes, making it accessible for busy families and food lovers alike.

Why You’ll Love This Street Corn Chicken Casserole

• Convenient: Quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: A delicious blend of sweet corn, spices, and creamy cheese.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from corn.
• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults.

Who It’s For

This casserole is ideal for busy families looking for a quick, nutritious meal. It’s also perfect for health-conscious cooks who want to enjoy flavorful dishes without compromising on nutrition. Food lovers will appreciate the vibrant flavors and comforting textures that make this dish a standout at any table.

When to Cook It

Enjoy this Street Corn Chicken Casserole for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings. It’s also a fantastic option for celebrations, as it can easily feed a crowd and is sure to impress your guests with its delicious taste and colorful presentation.

How to Make the Perfect Street Corn Chicken Casserole

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover grilled chicken for added flavor.
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained: Sweet corn adds texture; frozen corn can be used as a fresh alternative.
• 1 cup cream-style corn: This provides creaminess; you can substitute with pureed cooked corn for a healthier option.
• 1 cup sour cream: Adds richness; Greek yogurt can be a lighter substitute.
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend): Choose your favorite cheese for melting; pepper jack adds a spicy kick.
• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper: For sweetness and color; green bell pepper works too.
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Adds freshness; chives can be used as an alternative.
• 1 tsp chili powder: For warmth; smoked paprika can enhance the flavor profile.
• 1 tsp cumin: Adds earthiness; coriander can be a fragrant substitute.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to preference.
• 1 cup crushed tortilla chips: For crunch; you can use crushed cornflakes for a gluten-free option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
2. Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, drained corn, cream-style corn, sour cream, half of the cheese, diced red bell pepper, green onions, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well blended.
3. Transfer to baking dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
4. Add toppings: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, followed by the crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy finish.
5. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Cool and serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

For People with Diabetes: Sugar Substitutes

• Stevia: A natural sweetener with zero calories, perfect for adding sweetness without sugar.
• Monk fruit: Another natural option that provides sweetness without affecting blood sugar levels.
• Allulose: A low-calorie sugar that mimics the taste of sugar without the carbs.
• Note: Avoid using honey or maple syrup as they can spike blood sugar levels.

Tools You’ll Need

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Oven mitts
• Can opener
• Knife and cutting board

Top Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Use Quality Ingredients: Chef José Andrés emphasizes the importance of fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Layer Flavors: Renowned chef Rick Bayless suggests adding spices at different stages of cooking to build depth in your dish.
• Don’t Skip the Toppings: Chef Marcela Valladolid recommends generous toppings of cheese and tortilla chips for that perfect crunch and flavor contrast.
• Make It Ahead: Chef Ina Garten advises preparing the casserole a day in advance; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Cheese: Chef Pati Jinich encourages trying different cheese blends, like adding queso fresco for a unique twist.

Storing and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the casserole before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.
• Tip: Add a splash of water or broth before reheating to keep it moist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not draining the corn: Failing to drain the canned corn can make the casserole watery, affecting the texture.
• Overbaking: Baking for too long can lead to dry chicken and burnt toppings; keep an eye on the cheese for that perfect golden color.
• Skipping seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in a bland dish; always taste and adjust salt and spices to enhance flavors.
• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold ingredients can affect cooking time; let your ingredients come to room temperature for even baking.
• Not letting it cool: Serving immediately can lead to a messy presentation; allow the casserole to cool slightly for easier serving.

FAQs About Street Corn Chicken Casserole

• Can I make Street Corn Chicken Casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.
• Is Street Corn Chicken Casserole gluten-free? It depends on the type of tortilla chips you use; opt for gluten-free chips to ensure the dish is safe for gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Can I substitute the chicken in Street Corn Chicken Casserole? Yes, shredded turkey or even a plant-based protein can be used as alternatives to chicken.
• Does Street Corn Chicken Casserole freeze well? Yes, it can be frozen before baking for up to 2 months; just thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking.
• Is Street Corn Chicken Casserole suitable for kids? Yes, this dish is family-friendly and appeals to kids with its cheesy, flavorful ingredients.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Street Corn Chicken Casserole

This Street Corn Chicken Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings families together. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I do. If you try it, please leave a comment below to let me know how it turned out, or share your own twists on this recipe!

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