Becca’s Sweet Corn Chili: A Cozy Twist on a Classic Comfort Food

It is a frozen tundra in Ohio this week. The kids had a snow day yesterday and are already on a 2-hour delay today.

Which means… it’s officially SOUP SZN! My sister-in-law, Rebecca, sent out this recipe a few weeks ago and I was so eager to try it. This Sweet Corn Chili recipe combines the earthy goodness of chili with the natural sweetness of fresh corn, creating a dish that’s perfect for cozy nights in or lively gatherings with friends and family.

Why Sweet Corn?

Corn has long been a staple in many cuisines, and for good reason. Its natural sweetness pairs beautifully with bold, spicy flavors. In this chili, sweet corn adds a burst of freshness that balances out the rich, savory elements of the dish. Whether you use fresh, frozen, or canned corn, it brings a unique texture and flavor profile that elevates your chili to the next level.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 3 Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 1 jalapeno, diced
• 5 cups chicken bone broth
• 1.5 cups sour cream
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, (I used a blend of Monterey Jack & mild cheddar)
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 cups frozen sweet white corn
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, juice
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons water
• olive oil
• Cotija cheese
• Bacon crumbles
• Tortilla strips
• Sliced avocado

Directions:

1. In a large soup pot heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Add onion, jalapeño, and sauté until softened.
3. Add garlic, oregano, chili powder, and stir until combined.
4. Add broth, chicken, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked.
6. Transfer cooked chicken to a bowl and shred with forks.
7. Add back into the pot.
8. Add sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, corn, and lime juice.
9. In a small bowl combine cornstarch and water.
10. Add into soup pot.
11. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring every few minutes.
12. Serve with crumbled bacon, cojita cheese, tortilla chips, and avocado!

Tips for the Perfect Sweet Corn Chili

1. Make it Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegetarian, but you can make it fully vegan by using plant-based toppings like vegan cheese or avocado.
2. Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder chili, skip the jalapeño and cayenne pepper. For those who love spice, feel free to add more heat with extra jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
3. Batch Cooking: Sweet Corn Chili is perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch and freeze individual portions for easy weeknight dinners.
4. Experiment with Proteins: If you’re not vegetarian, feel free to add cooked ground beef, turkey, or chicken for an extra protein boost.

Final Thoughts:

This Sweet Corn Chili is more than just a meal — it’s an experience. So next time you’re craving something warm and filling, give this sweet and savory twist on chili a try.

Your taste buds will thank you!