Craving something creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor? This Street Corn Chicken Casserole brings all the bold, smoky, zesty flavors of Mexican street corn and combines it with tender shredded chicken in a cozy, oven-baked casserole. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck dish that everyone will ask for again!

Why You’ll Love Street Corn Chicken Casserole

This isn’t just another chicken casserole here’s why it stands out:

Inspired by Elote: It’s like Mexican street corn turned into a full meal.
Creamy & Cheesy: Loaded with a rich sour cream and cheese base.
Quick & Easy: Toss everything in a dish and bake!
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults both devour it.
Great for Leftovers: Even better the next day!

Ingredients in Street Corn Chicken Casserole

Cooked Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works great here.
Corn Kernels: Fresh, canned, or frozen (drained if using canned).
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: For that creamy, tangy base.
Cream Cheese: Adds richness and smooth texture.
Monterey Jack or Cheddar Cheese: Melty and delicious.
Chopped Green Chiles: Adds mild heat and flavor.
Taco Seasoning or Chili Powder + Cumin: For that smoky Tex-Mex kick.
Fresh Lime Juice: Brightens everything up.
Cilantro: Optional, but highly recommended.
Tajin or Smoked Paprika: To sprinkle on top for that street corn vibe.
Tortilla Chips (optional): Add a layer underneath or crumble on top for crunch.

(Exact measurements are listed in the printable recipe card below.)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.

Make the Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, corn, softened cream cheese, sour cream, green chiles, taco seasoning, lime juice, half the shredded cheese, and chopped cilantro (if using). Stir until well blended.

Assemble the Casserole:
Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish. Top with remaining cheese. Sprinkle Tajin or paprika for extra color and flavor.

Bake:
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

Optional Finish:
Turn the broiler on for the last 2–3 minutes to lightly brown the cheese.

Serve:
Garnish with more cilantro, lime wedges, and crushed tortilla chips if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: ~340
Protein: ~25g | Carbs: ~12g | Fat: ~22g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Casserole

With a Side Salad: A fresh green salad balances the richness.
With Rice or Quinoa: Add more bulk for hungry eaters.
As a Dip: Scoop with chips for party-style serving.
Stuffed in Tortillas: Turn it into tacos or burritos!
Topped with Jalapeños: For an extra kick.

Additional Tips

Use frozen fire-roasted corn for more smoky flavor.
Don’t overbake you want it creamy, not dry.
Add black beans for extra protein and texture.
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to lighten it up.
Top with crushed Hot Cheetos or spicy chips for a fun crunch.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

2. Can I freeze leftovers?
You can just note the texture may change slightly after thawing.

3. Is this spicy?
Not too spicy! But you can adjust the heat level with more chiles or seasoning.

4. Can I make this low-carb?
Yes skip any chips or tortillas, and enjoy as-is or with cauliflower rice.

5. What cheese works best?
Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, Cheddar, or a Mexican blend are all great options.

6. Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, it works in a pinch just drain well and shred it.

7. What kind of corn should I use?
Fresh off the cob, canned, or frozen all work. Fire-roasted adds extra flavor.

8. How can I make it vegetarian?
Swap chicken for black beans or roasted cauliflower.

9. Can I add veggies?
Yes diced bell peppers, onions, or zucchini work beautifully.

10. What toppings go well?
Avocado slices, hot sauce, cotija cheese, lime juice, or extra cilantro.

Conclusion

This Street Corn Chicken Casserole is a comforting, flavor-packed meal that captures the essence of classic elote in a whole new way. It’s creamy, cheesy, and effortlessly crowd-pleasing perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or anytime you need something satisfying with minimal fuss. One pan, endless joy!

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