Street Corn Chicken Casserole

• Cooked shredded chicken: quality rotisserie or home cooked chicken works best for flavor and tenderness
• Corn kernels: provide sweetness and crunch I always pick bright yellow kernels and drain canned ones well
• Cream cheese: softened gives that rich creamy body use a block style for best melting
• Sour cream: makes things extra smooth and slightly tangy
• Mayonnaise: boosts creaminess and helps everything blend together
• Shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese: stretch for great melts with a mild taste a blend is fantastic
• Additional shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for topping: forms a bubbling crust on top and is a must for cheese lovers
• Grated Parmesan cheese: for sharpness and depth
• Chili powder: brings gentle heat and Mexican inspired flavor use a fresh vibrant powder for full taste
• Paprika: offers warm smokiness I prefer sweet over hot for balance
• Garlic powder: adds savory background notes
• Salt and black pepper to taste: for seasoning always taste as you go
• Chopped fresh cilantro: for bright herby finish
• Juice of one lime: fresh squeezed for zing and lift
• Sliced jalapeños or hot sauce optional: for those who want extra kick

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prep:

Set your oven to 190 degrees Celsius. Lightly grease a 23 by 33 centimeter baking dish so nothing sticks during baking.

Mix the Filling:

In a large mixing bowl stir together the shredded chicken corn cream cheese sour cream mayonnaise shredded cheese Parmesan chili powder paprika garlic powder lime juice salt and pepper. Mix until no streaks remain and the mixture looks creamy and even.

Spread in the Dish:

Scoop the mixture into the prepared baking dish using a spatula to spread it evenly from corner to corner.

Add Cheese Topping:

Sprinkle a generous layer of extra shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack over the top to form a delicious crust during baking.

Bake to Perfection:

Slide the dish into the oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Watch for the moment when the cheese is golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges for the perfect finish.

Finish and Serve:

Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro. If you enjoy a spicy kick add jalapeño slices or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.

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I adore the burst of lime at the end. When my husband first bit in he immediately declared it tastes like a summer barbecue in casserole form which always makes me smile.

Storage Tips

Cool leftovers to room temperature before covering and refrigerating. This casserole stays fresh for up to three days. For longer storage portion into airtight containers and freeze up to two months. Reheat leftovers covered at a gentle oven temperature to keep the cheese gooey and the filling creamy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap out chicken for shredded roast turkey or even black beans for a vegetarian version. Greek yogurt can stand in for sour cream and you can use a blend of cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack if you like a bolder cheese flavor. No fresh lime Use bottled if that is what you have on hand but fresh really brightens up the dish.

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Serving Suggestions

This dish shines next to a crunchy salad or with warm tortillas for scooping. A spoonful of salsa or avocado slices brings extra freshness to every serving. Sometimes I tuck leftovers into a tortilla and griddle it for a quick quesadilla style lunch the next day.

Cultural Context

The inspiration comes from classic Mexican street corn or elote where grilled corn gets smothered with cheese lime and spices. Turning those flavors into a bake with chicken makes it family friendly and easy for any home cook to enjoy north of the border.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for this dish?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut. Shred it well before mixing with the other ingredients.

→ Is it possible to make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best results.

→ Can I substitute the cheeses?

Feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a combination. A touch of sharp cheddar adds a new flavor dimension.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

Reduce or increase chili powder, omit jalapeños, or serve hot sauce on the side to suit your preference.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole. Defrost overnight, then bake as usual when ready to serve.

→ What sides go well with this meal?

Try pairing with a crisp salad, simple rice, or even warm tortillas to round out the plate.