Mexican Street Corn Chicken Bake

Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than this delightful Street Corn Chicken Casserole! This recipe encapsulates all the vibrant tastes of Mexican street corn in a comforting and easy-to-make bake. Picture sweet corn, creamy cheeses, zesty lime, and a hint of smoky spices all coming together to create a dish that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.

From the moment this Street Corn Chicken Casserole hits the oven, your kitchen will be filled with the most tantalizing aromas that will have everyone eagerly waiting at the table. The magic happens when the creamy cheese melds with the sweet corn, and a squeeze of lime juice brightens up the entire casserole after baking. It’s no wonder that this dish has quickly become a favorite in many households, including mine. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll love how versatile this recipe is – swap the protein, play with the cheese, or even try a vegetarian version; the options are endless!

Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or looking for a standout dish to bring to a potluck, this Street Corn Chicken Casserole is your ticket to flavor town. So, grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to indulge in a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s time to make dinnertime a little more special with this unforgettable casserole!

Quick Benefits

• Combines the flavors of loaded Mexican street corn into a cozy, family-friendly bake that brightens up any dinner routine.
• Versatile recipe – can be customized with different proteins like turkey or pulled pork, and can be made vegetarian by using black beans and extra corn.
• Makes a great dish for sharing at potlucks or game nights, or can be repurposed into street corn tacos with leftovers stuffed into tortillas.
• Can be made ahead, refrigerated for up to three days, or frozen in portions for up to two months for convenient meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Street Corn Chicken Bake Recipe

• Satisfying Flavor Fusion: This recipe brings together the delicious flavors of Mexican street corn with creamy cheese, tangy lime, and smoky spices, making it a tantalizing dish for your taste buds.
• Family-Friendly and Kid-Approved: Kids love this casserole for its comforting combination of sweet corn and gooey cheese. It’s a great way to get them excited about dinner time.
• Easy and Versatile: With simple ingredients and minimal effort, this casserole transforms into a hearty meal. You can easily customize it with different proteins like turkey or beans and adjust the cheese to your liking.
• Brightened by Lime Juice: The addition of lime juice elevates the dish, cutting through the richness of the cheese and adding a fresh, zesty flavor that makes every bite pop.
• Perfect for Sharing: Whether for potlucks, game nights, or family dinners, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser. You can even repurpose leftovers into delicious street corn tacos for another meal.
• Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: Prepare this casserole in advance and store leftovers for up to three days in the fridge or freeze portions for up to two months. It’s a convenient option for busy weeknights.
• Comforting and Nostalgic: The cozy, comforting nature of this dish makes it a go-to favorite that will soon become a staple in your dinnertime repertoire. It’s pure comfort in every bite!

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Chicken Bake

Protein

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken

Vegetables

• 4 cups corn kernels, fresh, canned, or thawed from frozen

Dairy

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• additional shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for topping

Spices and Seasonings

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• black pepper, to taste
• salt, to taste

Finishings

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• optional sliced jalapeños
• optional hot sauce
• juice of 1 lime

Pro Tips for Mexican Street Corn Chicken Bake

For a velvety smooth texture in your Street Corn Chicken Casserole, ensure the cream cheese is sufficiently softened and blend it thoroughly with the other ingredients. This step is essential for achieving a creamy and consistent mixture that will elevate the overall dish.

When using canned or thawed frozen corn, make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in your casserole. This will help maintain the perfect balance of flavors and prevent the final dish from becoming watery during baking.

To take your casserole to the next level, top it with extra shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for added gooeyness and flavor. For a spicy twist, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce after baking to infuse the dish with a delicious kick that will enhance the Mexican street corn-inspired flavors.

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Chicken Bake

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat the oven to 190°C and lightly grease a 23 x 33 cm baking dish.

Step 2: Prepare the filling

Combine shredded chicken, corn, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheese, Parmesan, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Transfer to baking dish

Evenly spread the mixture in the greased baking dish.

Step 4: Add cheese topping

Add another layer of shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese on top of the filling.

Step 5: Bake

Bake the dish in the oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.

Step 6: Finish and serve

Take out of the oven. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Optionally, garnish with sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.

Storage Tips

After preparing the Street Corn Chicken Casserole, ensure any leftovers are cooled completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store the casserole in the refrigerator for up to three days to maintain its flavors and freshness. For longer storage, the casserole can be frozen by wrapping it tightly and storing it in portions for up to two months. When reheating, adding a splash of milk or cream can help refresh the creamy consistency and ensure even heating.

To make variations of this casserole, consider swapping the chicken for cooked turkey or pulled pork. For a vegetarian option, black beans and extra corn can replace the meat. Greek yogurt can be used instead of sour cream for a lighter twist, and cheddar cheese can be substituted for Monterey Jack if needed. Serve the casserole alongside a crisp green salad and tortilla chips for a delightful meal, or stuff leftovers into tortillas for delicious street corn tacos. Whether enjoyed at a potluck, game night, or as a comforting family dinner, this casserole is sure to become a favorite.

Channeling the essence of Mexican street corn or elote, this casserole offers a comforting blend of creamy sauce, cheese, lime, and chili flavors. The dish’s adaptability and ability to maintain its deliciousness make it a versatile option for various occasions. By following these storage tips and exploring different ingredient variations, you can continue to enjoy the delightful flavors of this Street Corn Chicken Casserole beyond its initial preparation.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a different protein option, consider using cooked turkey or pulled pork instead of chicken. These alternatives can bring their own unique flavors to the casserole.

If you prefer a vegetarian version, black beans can be a great substitute for the meat. Increase the amount of corn to maintain the heartiness of the dish while providing plant-based protein.

If you don’t have Monterey Jack cheese, cheddar cheese can be used as a replacement. It will still provide a gooey texture and a rich flavor to the casserole.

You can customize the level of spiciness by adding sliced jalapeños or drizzling your favorite hot sauce on top after baking. This will give the dish an extra kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try topping individual portions of the Street Corn Chicken Casserole with crushed tortilla chips for an added crunch and texture. This not only adds a fun twist to the dish but also complements the creamy and cheesy flavors with a hint of saltiness and extra crispiness.

Another serving idea is to garnish the casserole with a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving. The bright and zesty flavors of the cilantro and lime will enhance the overall taste of the dish, giving it a burst of freshness and a vibrant finish that will impress your guests and elevate the dining experience.

FAQs for Mexican Street Corn Chicken Bake

Can I use canned or frozen corn instead of fresh corn?

Yes, both canned and frozen (thawed) corn work well in this recipe. Just make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture before mixing.

What type of cheese can I use for this casserole?

Mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese are recommended for their great melt and flavor. Feel free to add more for extra gooeyness, especially on top of the casserole.

How should I store leftovers of this Street Corn Chicken Casserole?

Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze portions tightly wrapped for up to two months. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to refresh the creamy consistency.

How can I add an extra kick of flavor to this casserole?

For an extra kick, top the casserole with sliced jalapeños or drizzle your favorite hot sauce over it after baking. This will add a flavorful punch to the dish.

Conclusion

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Mexican street corn with this delightful Street Corn Chicken Casserole. It’s a dish that effortlessly transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy cheese, zesty lime juice, and smoky spices creates a symphony of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or savoring leftovers the next day, this casserole is sure to bring a smile to your face with each delicious bite. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe to suit your preferences – whether you opt for a vegetarian twist or switch up the protein, the versatility of this dish makes it a go-to option for busy weeknights or special gatherings.

So, gather your loved ones around the table and treat them to the irresistible allure of Street Corn Chicken Casserole. With its comforting flavors and easy preparation, this dish is bound to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Embrace the warmth and satisfaction that this casserole brings, and let it become a beloved favorite in your kitchen repertoire.