Street Corn Chicken Casserole

This Street Corn Chicken Casserole transforms the beloved flavors of Mexican street corn into a hearty, comforting dish that brings together creamy textures, smoky spices, and the sweet pop of corn kernels. The combination of tender shredded chicken with a rich, cheesy sauce creates a satisfying meal that works for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings.

I first created this casserole when looking for creative ways to use up rotisserie chicken and frozen corn during a particularly busy week. What started as a simple weeknight solution quickly became one of our family's most requested comfort foods, especially during the cooler months when we crave something warming and satisfying.

Ingredients

• Cooked shredded chicken provides the protein foundation and absorbs all the wonderful flavors in the sauce. Rotisserie chicken works perfectly here for convenience.
• Corn kernels are the star of the show, bringing sweet pops of flavor and texture. Fresh corn cut from the cob offers the best flavor in summer months.
• Cream cheese creates the velvety base for our sauce. Make sure it's softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother result.
• Sour cream and mayonnaise add tanginess and richness that mimic the traditional crema used on Mexican street corn.
• Mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully throughout the casserole. Monterey Jack brings a slightly sharper flavor profile if you prefer more punch.
• Parmesan cheese adds a salty depth and helps create that irresistible golden top.
• Chili powder brings authentic street corn flavor with its blend of dried chilies, cumin, garlic and oregano.
• Fresh cilantro brightens the finished dish with its distinctive herbal notes. Look for bunches with vibrant green leaves.
• Lime juice adds essential acidity that balances the richness and enhances all other flavors.

How To Make Street Corn Chicken Casserole

Prepare the baking dish

Preheat your oven to 190°C and lightly grease a 23 x 33 cm baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter. The right sized dish ensures proper cooking and serving portions.

Create the creamy base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use a spatula to work these ingredients together until completely smooth with no lumps remaining. The creamier this base, the more luscious your final casserole will be.

Add the flavorings

To your creamy base, add the chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Stir thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly throughout the mixture. This seasoning blend creates that distinctive street corn flavor profile.

Incorporate the main ingredients

Fold in the shredded chicken, corn kernels, shredded cheese, and Parmesan. Use gentle but thorough folding motions to ensure everything is coated in the creamy spiced mixture without breaking down the texture of the chicken or corn.

Assemble and bake

Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly to the edges. Sprinkle additional shredded cheese over the top to create a beautiful melty, golden crust. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbling around the edges and golden on top.

Finish and serve

Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro. For those who enjoy heat, add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set slightly.

The chili powder is truly the secret ingredient in this recipe. I always reach for a high quality Mexican style blend rather than pure ground chilies. This spice blend contains cumin, oregano, and garlic, which creates that authentic street corn flavor without having to measure multiple individual spices.

Make It Your Own

This casserole welcomes customization based on your preferences and what you have on hand. For a spicier version, add diced green chiles or increase the chili powder. Prefer a fresher taste? Stir in diced red bell peppers for color and crunch. You can even add a layer of crushed tortilla chips on top during the last 5 minutes of baking for added texture.

Perfect Pairings

This casserole works beautifully as a main dish served with a simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside warm flour tortillas so guests can scoop up the creamy goodness. It also makes an excellent side dish for grilled proteins when you're feeding a crowd.

Storage Solutions

This casserole keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15 minutes. Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese on top when reheating to refresh the dish.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for this casserole?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this dish! Simply shred the meat to yield the 2 cups needed. It's a great time-saver and adds wonderful flavor to the casserole.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

To increase the heat level, add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the mixture before baking, increase the chili powder, add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper, or serve with extra hot sauce on the side.

→ Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate covered. When ready to cook, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I serve with Street Corn Chicken Casserole?

This versatile dish pairs well with a green salad, Mexican rice, black beans, warm tortillas, or tortilla chips for scooping. For a lighter meal, serve with roasted vegetables or a simple cucumber and avocado salad.

→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

For a lighter version, use light cream cheese, low-fat sour cream, and reduced-fat mayonnaise. You can also increase the ratio of chicken to corn and reduce the amount of cheese on top while still maintaining great flavor.

→ Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. For leftovers, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.