Street Corn Chicken Casserole is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of chicken, sweet corn, and spices in one hearty bake. Imagine biting into layers of tender chicken smothered in creamy sauce, topped with a crispy, cheesy crust that begs to be devoured. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone wandering in like hungry zombies.
I remember the first time I served this dish at a family gathering; my cousin’s eyes lit up as he took his first bite, declaring it a new family favorite. This casserole is perfect for potlucks or cozy weekend dinners when you want something that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Street Corn Chicken Casserole is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Each bite bursts with flavor from the sweet corn and spices.
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing and a showstopper on any dinner table.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients or leftovers.
I once brought this casserole to my neighbor’s block party, and let’s just say the plate was empty before I could even grab a second helping.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on how many you’re feeding.
Fresh Corn: Use sweet corn on the cob or frozen kernels for convenience.
Cream Cheese: A must for that creamy texture; let it soften before mixing.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for an extra kick.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions add freshness and color; they also make you feel fancy.
Spices (Paprika, Cumin, Chili Powder): These give the casserole its signature street corn flavor.
Tortilla Chips: For topping—the crunch adds a fun texture contrast.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Street Corn Chicken Casserole
Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grab your favorite baking dish. Spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray to ensure your casserole slides out easily later.
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and heat it until shimmering. Add seasoned chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides—about 6-7 minutes per side should do it. The kitchen will smell heavenly!
Shred the Chicken: Once cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F), remove the chicken from the skillet and shred it using two forks. Don’t be shy; get in there!
Mix It Up!: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken with cream cheese, corn, green onions, and all those delightful spices. Mix until everything is evenly coated—this will be gooey goodness!
Add Cheese and Assemble: Fold in half of the shredded cheddar into your mixture then pour it into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top along with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.
Bake Away!: Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top—trust me; it’ll be hard not to peek every five minutes!
This Street Corn Chicken Casserole not only tantalizes taste buds but also makes any meal an occasion worth celebrating! Enjoy every cheesy bite with family or friends—and don’t forget to save some for leftovers (if there’s any left!).
You Must Know
- Street Corn Chicken Casserole combines the creamy, savory flavors of street corn with tender chicken.
- It’s a comforting dish that brings everyone together.
- The crunchy topping adds a delightful texture, perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first for maximum flavor, then prepare the corn mixture while it cooks. This sequence keeps everything juicy and delicious.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or use different cheeses to suit your taste. Experimenting can lead to delightful surprises!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To enhance flavor, marinate the chicken overnight for deeper taste and tenderness.
- Use fresh corn for the best texture and sweetness.
- A sprinkle of lime juice before serving brightens up all the flavors beautifully.
The first time I made Street Corn Chicken Casserole, my friends couldn’t stop asking for seconds. That feedback made my heart swell with pride, and I knew I had struck culinary gold!
FAQ
What is Street Corn Chicken Casserole?
It’s a creamy casserole combining shredded chicken, corn, spices, and cheese, inspired by elote.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it a day in advance and bake before serving for convenience.
What can I serve with this casserole?
Pair it with a fresh salad or tortilla chips for a complete meal experience.
Street Corn Chicken Casserole
Street Corn Chicken Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines tender chicken, sweet corn, and spices in a creamy bake. Topped with a crispy cheese crust and crunchy tortilla chips, this casserole is perfect for potlucks or cozy dinners. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it a delightful choice for family gatherings or a weeknight meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 cups fresh corn (or frozen kernels)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook seasoned chicken breasts in olive oil until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-7 minutes per side). Shred the chicken.
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with cream cheese, corn, green onions, and spices until well combined.
- Fold in half of the cheddar cheese and pour mixture into the baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and crushed tortilla chips.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: - Marinate the chicken overnight for added flavor. - Customize with your favorite veggies or different cheeses for variety.
