Delicious Street Corn Chicken Casserole topped with cheese and spices

Street Corn Chicken Casserole

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Street Corn Chicken Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the flavors of street corn and tender chicken, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It is creamy, cheesy, and packed with corn, which gives it a sweet and savory taste. The fresh cilantro and lime juice add a refreshing twist, while optional jalapeños and hot sauce can spice things up. This casserole is not only tasty but also very easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.

How to Make Street Corn Chicken Casserole

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 4 cups corn kernels, fresh, canned, or thawed from frozen
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
  • Additional shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for topping
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Optional: sliced jalapeños
  • Optional: hot sauce

Directions

  1. Set the oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inch) baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, corn kernels, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheese, Parmesan cheese, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
  3. Spread the prepared mixture evenly in the greased baking dish.
  4. Sprinkle an additional layer of shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese over the filling.
  5. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.
  6. Remove from the oven. Top with fresh chopped cilantro. If you like, add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Casserole

Serve this casserole hot straight from the oven. It is great as a main dish and pairs well with a simple green salad or some tortilla chips. You can also set out extra toppings like jalapeños, hot sauce, or additional cilantro for guests to customize their servings.

How to Store Street Corn Chicken Casserole

If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.

Tips to Make Street Corn Chicken Casserole

  • Use rotisserie chicken for a time-saving option.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or green onions for extra flavor.
  • For a spicier kick, try adding more chili powder or hot sauce to the mix.
  • Make sure the cream cheese is softened to ensure an even texture.

Variation

You can switch up the cheeses in this recipe. If you prefer a different flavor, try using cheddar cheese or pepper jack. You can also make it vegetarian by skipping the chicken and adding black beans for protein instead.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Q: Is it possible to use frozen corn?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water from the corn before adding it to the mix.

Q: How do I know when the casserole is done?
A: The casserole is done when the surface is golden and bubbly. You can also insert a knife in the center to check that it’s hot throughout.