Street Corn Chicken Casserole

This hearty Street Corn Chicken Casserole transforms the beloved flavors of Mexican street corn into a comforting family dinner. The combination of tender chicken, sweet corn, and zesty seasonings creates a meal that's both satisfying and exciting. I created this recipe when looking for creative ways to use leftover rotisserie chicken, and it quickly became a regular request at our house.

The first time I made this casserole was for an impromptu gathering with neighbors during a summer cookout. Everyone asked for the recipe before they even finished their first serving! Now it's my go to dish whenever someone needs a meal delivered or when we're hosting taco Tuesday with a twist.

Ingredients

• Shredded chicken: provides the hearty protein base and rotisserie chicken saves tremendous time
• Corn kernels: both canned and fire roasted add sweetness and subtle smokiness that echoes authentic street corn
• Sour cream and mayonnaise: create the creamy, tangy base that binds everything together
• Chili powder and cumin: deliver that authentic Mexican street food flavor profile
• Fresh lime juice: brightens the entire dish and cuts through the richness
• Cotija cheese: this crumbly Mexican cheese adds authentic flavor and a slight saltiness
• Monterey Jack cheese: melts beautifully for that irresistible cheese pull
• Tortilla chips: provide the essential crunchy contrast to the creamy filling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375°F and lightly grease your casserole dish. This temperature allows the casserole to heat through properly without burning the top before the center warms.

Create the Flavor Base:

In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except half the Monterey Jack and tortilla chips. This is where the magic happens as the creamy ingredients, spices, and lime juice coat every bit of chicken and corn. Take a moment to taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Layer in the Dish:

Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure consistent cooking. Press down gently to eliminate air pockets which could cause uneven cooking.

Add the Cheese Blanket:

Sprinkle the remaining cheese across the entire surface. This creates that gorgeous golden crust that makes casseroles so appealing. Ensure even coverage for the best presentation.

Initial Bake:

Place the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. You want to see bubbling around the edges and the cheese fully melted with spots of golden brown appearing.

Crispy Topping Finish:

Add the crushed tortilla chips and return to the oven briefly. This final step adds the essential textural contrast that mimics the experience of eating street corn. The chips become lightly toasted but not burnt.

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My absolute favorite ingredient in this recipe is the fire roasted corn. I stumbled upon it in the freezer section one day and now keep it stocked year round. The slight char adds such authenticity to the dish that reminds me of vendors grilling corn on street corners in Mexico City. When my daughter first tried this casserole, she declared it "fancy nachos for dinner" and that description has stuck in our family ever since.

Make Ahead Options

This casserole works beautifully as a prepare ahead meal. You can assemble the entire casserole up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply remove from the refrigerator while the oven preheats, then bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time. The flavors actually develop nicely as it sits, making this a perfect option for busy days when you want to get dinner prep done early.

Tasty Variations

Looking to customize this crowd pleaser? Try adding a layer of black beans between the corn mixture and cheese topping for extra protein and fiber. For heat lovers, mix in a diced jalapeño or a few tablespoons of your favorite hot sauce. Vegetarians can skip the chicken entirely and double the corn or add diced zucchini and bell peppers. During summer months, use fresh corn cut from the cob for the sweetest flavor. The versatility of this recipe makes it a perfect canvas for your own creative touches.

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Serving Suggestions

This casserole shines as a complete meal on its own, but there are several accompaniments that complement it beautifully. Serve with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lime vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Warm flour tortillas on the side allow family members to make impromptu tacos with the casserole filling. For a fun presentation, set out additional toppings like diced avocado, pico de gallo, or pickled red onions so everyone can customize their plate. This dish is equally at home at a casual family dinner or as part of a larger Mexican themed spread.

Perfect Pairing Ideas

Complete your Street Corn Chicken Casserole experience with complementary drinks and sides. For beverages, a crisp Mexican lager or a classic margarita provides refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy casserole. Non alcoholic options include agua fresca or a tangy limeade. If serving as part of a larger meal, consider starting with a light tortilla soup or ending with a simple dessert like cinnamon sugar coated churros or cool tres leches cake. The bright flavors in this casserole make it versatile enough to pair with many accompaniments.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this dish?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works great for this casserole. Simply shred and use 2 cups as directed in the recipe.

→ Can I substitute cotija cheese?

If cotija is unavailable, feta cheese is a great substitute due to its similar crumbly texture and salty flavor.

→ What can I use instead of tortilla chips for the topping?

You can use crushed crackers, crumbled cornbread, or even breadcrumbs for a different kind of crunch.

→ How do I make this dish spicier?

Add more chili powder or include diced jalapeños to the mixture for an extra spicy kick.

→ Can I make this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with cooked black beans or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.