Name: Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb Boneless Chicken Breasts or Thighs; 2 cups Corn (Fresh grilled, frozen, or canned); 4 oz Cream Cheese (or vegan alternatives); 1/3 cup Cotija Cheese (or Feta as a substitute); 1 Lime (Juice; freshly squeezed preferred); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced); 1/2 tsp Chili Powder; 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika; 1/2 tsp Onion Powder; Fresh Cilantro (Optional for garnish)

why make this recipe

Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken combines rich flavors and creamy textures for a comforting meal everyone will love. It’s easy to make and uses a slow cooker, which means less time in the kitchen and more time for you. This dish brings the flavors of street corn, a favorite in many Mexican cuisines, right to your table. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Using simple ingredients like chicken, corn, and cream cheese, this dish is a hit with both kids and adults. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a taste of summer, no matter what season it is. Plus, it’s versatile! You can serve it over rice, in tacos, or even as a dip with chips.

how to make Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken

Making Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken is simple and requires minimal prep time. You set it in the slow cooker and let it do the work. Follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go!

Ingredients

1 lb Boneless Chicken Breasts/Thighs (Thighs for richer flavor, breasts for a leaner option.)
2 cups Corn (Fresh grilled, frozen, or canned corn.)
4 oz Cream Cheese (Can use vegan alternatives like Tofutti or Kite Hill.)
1/3 cup Cotija Cheese (Feta works as a substitute.)
1 Lime (Lime Juice; freshly squeezed preferred.)
2 cloves Garlic (Minced; jarred can be used.)
1/2 tsp Chili Powder (Chipotle or cayenne can be used for more heat.)
1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika (Adds smokiness.)
1/2 tsp Onion Powder
Fresh Cilantro (Optional for garnish.)

Directions

Preparation: Start by placing the boneless chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker. You can use either chicken breasts or thighs. If you prefer a richer flavor, opt for thighs.
Add the corn on top of the chicken. It can be fresh, frozen, or even canned. Just make sure to drain canned corn well.
Next, take the cream cheese and cut it into small cubes. Add it to the slow cooker. This will melt throughout the cooking process, creating a creamy sauce.
Now, add the cotija cheese or feta cheese if you’re using that instead. Sprinkle it evenly over the top.
Squeeze the lime juice over everything for a fresh burst of flavor.
Add the minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Mix should be evenly distributed to ensure every bite is packed with taste.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Once it’s done, shred the chicken right in the slow cooker using two forks. Stir everything together so that the chicken is mixed well with the creamy corn.
Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.
If you want an extra kick, sprinkle more chili powder or cayenne to suit your taste.

how to serve Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken

This dish is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some ideas:

Over Rice: Serve the creamy chicken over a bed of fluffy rice. This is an excellent way to soak up all the delicious flavors.
In Tacos: Warm up corn or flour tortillas and fill them with the street corn chicken. Top with extra lime juice and fresh cilantro for added taste.
With Chips: Use it as a dip with tortilla chips. The creamy texture makes it perfect for scooping!
Over Salad: For a lighter option, serve it over a fresh green salad. Add avocado and tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.

how to store Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken

If you have leftovers, storing them is easy!

Refrigeration: Allow the street corn chicken to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: If you wish to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Place it in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm throughout. If it seems thick, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it.

tips to make Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken

Chicken Choice: While chicken thighs add richness, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat. Both options will yield delicious results.
Corn Variety: Using fresh corn in season offers the best flavor, but frozen works just as well. Canned corn is also fine; just make sure to drain it thoroughly.
Cream Cheese Alternatives: If you want a dairy-free option, try using vegan cream cheese or coconut cream for a similar texture.
Cheese Substitutes: Cotija adds a nice salty flavor, but if you can’t find it, feta cheese makes a great alternative.
Adjust Spices: Feel free to modify the spices to your liking. If you prefer it spicier, add more chili powder or use a hotter variety of chili powder.

variation

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste!

Add Protein: You can mix in black beans or pinto beans to make it a heartier meal.
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can increase the cream cheese for added creaminess.
Different Cheeses: Gruyere or Monterey Jack can be used instead of cotija for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken directly in the slow cooker. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before serving, which may take a bit longer.

How can I make it spicier?

To add more heat, consider using cayenne pepper instead of regular chili powder, or add diced jalapeños when cooking.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you ensure all ingredients are certified as such. Just double-check any packaged items like cream cheese or broths.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prep all the ingredients the night before, place them in the slow cooker, and refrigerate. Cook it in the morning for a delicious meal by dinnertime.

Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken is a delightful recipe that promises creamy, delicious comfort in every bite. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this simple and satisfying dish!