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:
- In a large soup pot heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add onion, jalapeño, and sauté until softened.
- Add garlic, oregano, chili powder, and stir until combined.
- Add broth, chicken, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked.
- Transfer cooked chicken to a bowl and shred with forks.
- Add back into the pot.
- Add sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, corn, and lime juice.
- In a small bowl combine cornstarch and water.
- Add into soup pot.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring every few minutes.
- Serve with crumbled bacon, cojita cheese, tortilla chips, and avocado!
Tips for the Perfect Sweet Corn Chili
- 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.
- 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.
- Batch Cooking: Sweet Corn Chili is perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch and freeze individual portions for easy weeknight dinners.
- 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!