Description
This Street Corn Chicken Casserole combines the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn (elote) with the comforting warmth of a classic casserole. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or any occasion where you want a flavorful and satisfying meal. The combination of chicken, corn, creamy sauce, and crunchy tortilla chip topping makes this casserole irresistible!
Ingredients:
- Casserole Base:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie preferred)
- 4 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or drained canned)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or Mexican blend)
- ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as substitute)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Topping:
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Optional Garnishes:
- Extra chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Hot sauce
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix shredded chicken, corn, softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, Monterey Jack cheese, half of the cotija, chopped cilantro, chili powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and uniform.
Step 3: Evenly spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cotija cheese evenly over the top.
Step 4: Combine crushed tortilla chips with the remaining Monterey Jack cheese in a small bowl. Evenly distribute this mixture over the casserole.
Step 5: Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.
Step 6: Allow to cool slightly, then garnish with additional chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and hot sauce as desired. Serve warm.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a winner for several reasons:
- Flavor Explosion: It perfectly captures the essence of Mexican street corn, combining sweet corn, creamy sauce, and a touch of spice.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this casserole is a breeze to prepare.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s guaranteed to be a hit at potlucks, parties, and family gatherings.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level and add your favorite toppings to suit your taste.
- Comfort Food with a Twist: It’s a comforting casserole with an exciting and unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a main course with a side salad or Mexican rice.
- Offer it as a side dish at a barbecue.
- Serve with tortilla chips for dipping.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top.
- Pair with a refreshing margarita or Mexican beer.
Tips:
- Utilize rotisserie chicken for added flavor and ease of preparation.
- If using frozen corn, make sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the mixture.
- Don’t overbake the casserole, as it can become dry.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
- If you don’t have cotija cheese, feta cheese makes a great substitute.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Nutrition Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 per serving
- Protein: 30-35g per serving
- Sodium: 500-700mg per serving
Conclusion
The Street Corn Chicken Casserole is a delightful and flavorful dish that brings the taste of Mexican street corn to your dinner table. With its creamy texture, cheesy topping, and satisfying combination of chicken and corn, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is a perfect choice. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, add the topping and bake as directed.
Q2: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Monterey Jack cheese is recommended, but you can substitute with cheddar, Colby Jack, or any other cheese that melts well.
Q3: Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can easily make this casserole vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding a can of drained and rinsed black beans or pinto beans.
Q4: How do I prevent the tortilla chips from getting soggy?
A: To prevent the tortilla chips from getting soggy, add the topping just before baking. This will ensure they remain crispy and crunchy.
Q5: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: While you can freeze this casserole, the texture may change slightly after thawing. If freezing, allow the casserole to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
