Creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor, this Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili is the ultimate cozy comfort food with a vibrant twist. Imagine your favorite creamy white chili base infused with the sweet crunch of charred corn, tender chunks of chicken, and the irresistible zest of Mexican street corn toppings. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or feeding a hungry crowd, this chili satisfies with every bite.


What really sets this dish apart is its balance of heat and creaminess, wrapped in smoky notes of cumin and roasted corn. It takes traditional white chicken chili and levels it up with elote-inspired toppings: a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chili powder, and a bright burst of fresh cilantro. This is not just dinner; it’s a spoonful of comfort with a fiesta flair.
What Kind of Corn Should I Use?
The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. You can use frozen corn, fresh corn on the cob (grilled or roasted is best), or even canned corn in a pinch. But for that true street corn flavor, roasting your corn in a skillet or over a flame first gives you that caramelized edge and smoky depth that makes this dish unforgettable.
Ingredients for the Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili
- Chicken breast: Lean and tender, this protein soaks up all the flavors of the chili and gives it heartiness.
- Sweet corn: The star of the show. Adds a pop of sweetness and texture. Roasted corn enhances flavor beautifully.
- White beans: Creamy and mild, they add protein and bulk without overpowering.
- Cream cheese: This is where the richness comes from. It melts into the chili for that luscious, smooth texture.
- Chicken broth: The savory base that brings everything together.
- Green chiles: Adds a subtle heat and tanginess.
- Garlic and onion: Aromatics that build the flavor base.
- Cumin and chili powder: Spice it up with warmth and a hint of smokiness.
- Cilantro: Bright, fresh, and the perfect contrast to the creamy base.
- Lime juice: A splash at the end lifts the whole dish.
- Sour cream: Optional topping that cools and enriches.
How To Make the Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil and cook diced onion and garlic until soft and fragrant. This is your flavor foundation.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add diced chicken breast to the pot and cook until browned and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder.
Step 3: Add the Base Ingredients
Stir in the corn (roasted if possible), white beans, green chiles, and chicken broth. Let it all simmer to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Stir in the Creaminess
Lower the heat and add in the cream cheese, stirring until it’s completely melted and the chili is creamy and smooth.
Step 5: Finish with Freshness
Just before serving, stir in fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 6: Serve and Top
Ladle into bowls and top with extra corn, a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chili powder, and more cilantro. Optional: add shredded cheese or crushed tortilla chips for texture.

Storing and Reheating Your Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili
Leftovers? You’re in luck. This chili gets even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 2 months.
To reheat, gently warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the consistency. If reheating in the microwave, stir every 30-45 seconds for even heating.
What to Serve With Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili?
Warm Cornbread
Nothing beats a buttery slice of cornbread on the side to scoop and soak up every creamy spoonful.
Cilantro Lime Rice
A fluffy, zesty bed of rice balances out the richness of the chili.
Avocado Salad
Cool and creamy avocado slices with cherry tomatoes and red onion give your meal a fresh contrast.
Tortilla Chips
Crunchy, salty, and perfect for scooping or crumbling on top for extra texture.
Jalapeño Cheddar Biscuits
For those who love extra heat and cheese, these are a fantastic pairing.
Want More Soup & Chili Ideas?
If you’re loving this flavorful twist on white chicken chili, check out these other hearty comfort meals:
- Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup for a savory and cheesy experience.
- Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gravy when you need hands-off cooking with huge payoff.
- Cheeseburger Soup for a cozy, cheesy spin on a classic American favorite.
- Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup for that hearty, stick-to-your-ribs comfort.
- Turkey Vegetable Soup when you want something lighter but still satisfying.
Save This Pin For Later
Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.
Tried it with a twist? Maybe with chipotle peppers or some extra roasted poblanos? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.
Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Ready to spice up your dinner game? This Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili is a creamy, zesty twist on classic comfort food. Loaded with tender chicken, roasted corn, white beans, and finished with a tangy swirl of lime and sour cream, this bowl brings the bold flavors of Mexican street corn right to your kitchen. Whether you’re hunting for easy dinner ideas, a cozy weeknight meal, or hearty food ideas for your next gathering, this quick and easy recipe checks all the boxes. It’s also a fantastic option if you’re craving comforting dishes without the heaviness of traditional chili.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 cups roasted corn (frozen, fresh, or canned)
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
4 oz cream cheese
3 cups chicken broth
1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1 tbsp lime juice
1/2 cup sour cream (for topping)
Instructions
1. In a large pot, sauté diced onion and garlic in a bit of oil until soft and fragrant.
2. Add diced chicken breast, season with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Cook until browned.
3. Stir in corn, white beans, green chiles, and chicken broth. Simmer to meld the flavors.
4. Lower heat and stir in cream cheese until fully melted and the chili is creamy.
5. Add lime juice and cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning.
6. Serve hot topped with extra corn, sour cream, cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder.
Notes
Roast your corn in a hot skillet or under the broiler for best flavor.
Add more broth if you prefer a thinner chili consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: white chicken chili, street corn chili, creamy chili, chicken corn soup
