Street Corn Chicken Casserole Recipe

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorsome and Comforting: The creamy mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, and cotija cheese pairs perfectly with the smoky, spicy seasonings for a rich and satisfying dish.
• Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep and a 30-minute bake time, this casserole comes together quickly for a weeknight meal or weekend get-together.
• Family-Friendly: The flavors are bold yet balanced, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Customizable: Add extra spice with jalapeños or cayenne pepper to fit your personal heat tolerance.
• One-Dish Meal: The casserole includes everything you need—chicken, corn, cheese, and spices—in one dish, making it easy to serve and clean up afterward.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 4 cups frozen corn kernels, thawed
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cotija cheese
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Mixture

In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, thawed corn, mayonnaise, sour cream, cotija cheese, cilantro, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and lime juice until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the chicken and corn mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Add Toppings

Sprinkle the crushed tortilla chips and shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.

Step 5: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• For extra spice: Add an extra ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or dice a jalapeño to mix in for a more intense heat.
• Greek Yogurt Substitute: If you prefer, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a tangy twist and extra protein.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and substitute with black beans or other plant-based proteins for a vegetarian version of the casserole.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh corn if it’s available. Just cook it first and cut it off the cob before adding it to the casserole.

How do I make this casserole spicier?

For more heat, increase the cayenne pepper, add jalapeños or chili flakes, or use a spicier variety of chili powder.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a side of rice, salad, or roasted vegetables. You could also serve it with some tortilla chips or guacamole for extra flavor.

Can I use a different cheese instead of cotija?

Yes! If you can’t find cotija cheese, you can substitute with feta cheese or even parmesan for a similar salty flavor.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe. Just shred it and add it to the casserole mixture.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just add the cheese and tortilla chip topping right before baking. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Can I adjust the amount of mayonnaise or sour cream?

Yes, you can adjust the amount of mayonnaise or sour cream depending on your preference. If you like a creamier casserole, add more of both.

Can I make this casserole without the tortilla chips?

Yes, you can omit the tortilla chips if you want a low-carb version or just prefer a simpler topping. You could also top it with some extra shredded cheese.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as it uses corn and cotija cheese as the main ingredients and tortilla chips that are naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Street Corn Chicken Casserole is the perfect fusion of comfort food and bold flavors. With its creamy, cheesy layers and a crunchy topping, this casserole makes an ideal dish for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Plus, it’s quick, easy, and customizable, making it a dish you’ll want to make again and again! Enjoy!

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