Get ready to transform your dinner routine with this mouthwatering Street Corn Chicken Casserole – a perfect fusion of classic comfort food and vibrant Mexican-inspired street corn flavors. This dish combines tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and the irresistible zest of elote, creating a crowd-pleasing meal that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
US Measurements
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1-2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Metric Measurements
- 300g cooked chicken
- 425g corn kernels
- 240ml mayonnaise
- 240ml sour cream
- 200g shredded cheddar cheese
- 225g cream cheese
- 5g chili powder
- 2g paprika
- 1g cayenne pepper (optional)
- 15-30ml lime juice
- 60g crushed tortilla chips
- 15g fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Base
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish
- In large mixing bowl, combine:
- Shredded chicken
- Drained corn kernels
- Mayonnaise
- Sour cream
- Softened cream cheese
- Add Flavor Layers
- Mix in 1½ cups of cheddar cheese
- Add chili powder
- Sprinkle paprika
- Add cayenne pepper (if using)
- Squeeze in lime juice
- Season with salt and pepper
- Stir until all ingredients are well combined
- Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish
- Spread evenly across the dish
- Top with remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese
- Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips over the top
- Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 25-30 minutes
- Look for golden, bubbling edges
- Cheese should be melted and slightly crispy
- Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving
- Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro
- Optional: Additional lime wedges on the side
Nutritional Information
Per Serving:
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes Servings: 6-8
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use rotisserie chicken for maximum flavor and convenience
- Drain corn thoroughly to prevent excess moisture
- Soften cream cheese at room temperature for smooth mixing
- For extra crunch, toast tortilla chips before crushing
- Adjust cayenne pepper to control spice level
Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with black beans
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortilla chips
- Low-Carb: Substitute corn with cauliflower
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives
- Protein Variation: Try ground turkey or shredded pork
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this ahead of time? A: Prepare and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Q2: How do I store leftovers? A: Refrigerate in airtight container for 3-4 days.
Q3: Can I freeze this casserole? A: Yes, freeze unbaked for up to 3 months.
Q4: What can I serve as a side dish? A: Green salad, rice, or additional tortilla chips.
Q5: How can I make it spicier? A: Increase cayenne or add diced jalapeños.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking
- Store in airtight container
- Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) for best texture
- Consume within 3-4 days
- Garnish with fresh cilantro after reheating
Elevate your dinner with this irresistible Street Corn Chicken Casserole – a perfect blend of comfort and excitement in every bite!