The aroma of baked corn mingling with juicy chicken wafts through your kitchen, promising a mouthwatering experience. Street Corn Chicken Casserole is not just any ordinary dish; it’s a fiesta in a pan, bursting with flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Picture creamy goodness topped with crispy bits of corn and melty cheese – it’s the kind of meal that turns an average Tuesday into a taco night celebration.
I remember the first time I made this casserole for my family. It was one of those evenings when everyone needed comfort food, and I wanted to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. As soon as we dug in, the familiar flavors transported me back to street fairs where I enjoyed elote, the delicious Mexican street corn. Just like that, this dish became our go-to recipe for family gatherings and cozy nights in.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Street Corn Chicken Casserole is easy to whip up on a busy weeknight without sacrificing flavor.
- The combination of savory chicken and sweet corn creates an irresistible flavor profile everyone will love.
- Visually appealing with its vibrant colors, it looks as good as it tastes.
- It’s versatile enough to serve as a main course or even a side dish at potlucks and parties.
Ingredients for Street Corn Chicken Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts provide the protein base; adjust quantity based on your crowd.
Fresh Corn: Use fresh or frozen corn kernels for that sweet crunch; they add texture and flavor.
Cream Cheese: This creamy delight holds everything together while adding richness to the casserole.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A generous sprinkle of cheddar on top makes for a gooey finish; use sharp cheddar for extra flavor.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions give a fresh kick; plus, they add a pop of color.
For the Seasoning:
Taco Seasoning: A blend of spices that takes your casserole from good to fantastic; feel free to use homemade seasoning if you’re feeling adventurous.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Street Corn Chicken Casserole
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, grab a baking dish and lightly grease it with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare Your Chicken
Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Place them in the greased baking dish. Cook them for about 25 minutes until they are no longer pink in the center.
Step 3: Mix Your Creamy Base
In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, taco seasoning, and half of your shredded cheddar cheese until smooth. Add in the corn and green onions, stirring well until everything is coated evenly.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Once the chicken is cooked and cooled slightly, shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Fold the shredded chicken into your creamy mixture until well combined.
Step 5: Bake It Up
Spread the mixture back into your greased baking dish and top with remaining cheddar cheese. Bake for another 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Transfer portions onto plates and sprinkle some extra green onions for garnish. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
This Street Corn Chicken Casserole isn’t just about filling bellies; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table while enjoying vibrant flavors that bring everyone together. Trust me; one bite will have you dreaming about seconds!
You Must Know
- This delicious Street Corn Chicken Casserole is a game changer for weeknight dinners.
- It combines the flavors of street corn with tender chicken to create a comforting dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
- Plus, it’s easy to make and even easier to customize!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the chicken until golden brown, then set it aside. While the chicken rests, sauté onions and peppers. Next, mix everything together with the corn and sauce before transferring it all to the oven for a bubbly finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for shredded beef or even beans for a vegetarian twist. Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or add jalapeños for an extra kick. The beauty of this casserole lies in its versatility!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or oven until heated through. You might want to add a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Street Corn Chicken Casserole, always use fresh corn for better flavor and texture.
- Don’t skip preheating your oven; it ensures even cooking and bubbling perfection.
- Lastly, let the casserole rest before serving; it helps meld those delicious flavors.
After making this casserole for a family gathering, my cousin declared it “the dish of champions,” which made my heart swell with pride—and my stomach growl at the memory!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Street Corn Chicken Casserole?
To prepare a delicious Street Corn Chicken Casserole, gather simple ingredients like shredded cooked chicken, corn (fresh or canned), cream cheese, sour cream, and spices such as chili powder and cumin. You will also need shredded cheese, green onions, and breadcrumbs for topping. This combination brings together creamy textures with a hint of spice, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
How long does it take to cook Street Corn Chicken Casserole?
Cooking Street Corn Chicken Casserole typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before assembling your casserole. Once it’s prepared and ready for baking, allow it to cook until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top. This timing ensures you get a delightful blend of flavors and textures in each bite.
Can I make Street Corn Chicken Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely prepare Street Corn Chicken Casserole ahead of time! Assemble the casserole in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop it in the oven and bake until heated through. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights or when hosting guests.
What can I serve with Street Corn Chicken Casserole?
Street Corn Chicken Casserole pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad or some garlic bread to complement its rich flavors. You could also add roasted vegetables or a light coleslaw for added crunch. These sides enhance the meal while keeping it balanced and satisfying.
Conclusion for Street Corn Chicken Casserole :
Street Corn Chicken Casserole is a delightful dish that combines creamy textures with vibrant flavors. With ingredients like shredded chicken, corn, and spices, it’s simple yet satisfying. You can easily prepare this casserole ahead of time, making it perfect for busy nights or entertaining guests. Remember to pair it with refreshing sides like salad or garlic bread to enhance your meal experience. Enjoy every bite of this flavorful casserole!
Street Corn Chicken Casserole
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Street Corn Chicken Casserole, a delightful dish that brings the essence of Mexican street food right to your dinner table. This easy-to-make casserole combines juicy chicken, sweet corn, and creamy cheese, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its cheesy topping and colorful ingredients, this casserole is sure to impress everyone at your table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper; place in the baking dish and cook for about 25 minutes or until no longer pink.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, taco seasoning, and half of the cheddar cheese until smooth. Stir in corn and green onions.
- Shred cooked chicken and fold into the creamy mixture until combined.
- Spread mixture in the baking dish, top with remaining cheddar cheese, and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra green onions if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 250g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider using smoked paprika or diced jalapeños. - Substitute chicken with shredded beef or beans for a vegetarian option. - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
