Name: Street Corn Chicken Casserol Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie preferred); 4 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or drained canned); 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or Mexican blend); 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as substitute); 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; Juice of 1 lime; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 cup crushed tortilla chips; 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; Extra chopped fresh cilantro; Lime wedges; Hot sauce

Jump to Recipe·5.3 from 24 reviews

If you’ve ever craved that irresistible blend of smoky, creamy, and zesty flavors you find in classic Mexican street corn but wished for a way to turn it into a crowd-pleasing main dish, you’re in for a treat. This Street Corn Chicken Casserol is a vibrant, comforting twist that combines juicy chicken, sweet corn, tangy cotija cheese, and warm spices under a crispy tortilla chip topping. It’s as satisfying as it is simple, making it the perfect meal for potlucks, family dinners, or just a cozy night in with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Street Corn Chicken Casserol Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts of this Street Corn Chicken Casserol is just how approachable the ingredients list is—yet every single item packs a flavorful punch. Each component brings its own magic, whether it’s the creamy base, the crispy topping, or those bright and zippy garnishes.

Cooked, shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a game-changer here; it’s juicy, full of flavor, and saves a ton of prep time.
Corn kernels: Use fresh for crunch, frozen for convenience, or canned if that’s what you have—it all works beautifully.
Cream cheese, softened: Delivers creaminess and helps pull everything together into a luscious casserole base.
Sour cream: Adds tang and extra silkiness to every bite.
Mayonnaise: Just a touch makes the filling rich without overpowering the other flavors.
Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Melts perfectly for that gooey, cheesy pull in every bite.
Crumbled cotija cheese: Salty, crumbly cotija is iconic for street corn flavor, but feta works in a pinch.
Fresh cilantro: Brings a pop of freshness and color, tying everything together.
Chili powder: Adds a gentle warmth and deep color to the filling.
Garlic powder: For savory depth and that classic home-cooked aroma.
Ground cumin: Earthy and aromatic, it brings that Southwest vibe you expect from street corn dishes.
Lime juice: A bright squeeze is all it takes to wake up the creamy, cheesy filling.
Salt and black pepper: Season to perfection so no flavor gets lost.
Crushed tortilla chips: The secret to a perfectly golden, crunchy casserole topping.
Shredded Monterey Jack cheese (for topping): Provides that irresistible cheese halo over your golden crust.
Extra chopped fresh cilantro (garnish): Because you can never have too much zest and color.
Lime wedges (garnish): For those who need a little extra zing at the table.
Hot sauce (garnish): An optional but highly encouraged finish for those who love a little heat.

How to Make Street Corn Chicken Casserol

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish

Start things off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Give a 9×13-inch baking dish a light coating of nonstick spray or oil to make sure serving later will be a breeze—and to set yourself up for a casserole that slides out with every cheesy, golden bite intact.

Step 2: Mix Up the Ultimate Filling

In a big mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, corn kernels, softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, Monterey Jack cheese, half of the cotija, chopped cilantro, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Don’t rush this step—stir until the mixture is super smooth, creamy, and each bite will have a little bit of everything.

Step 3: Layer and Cheese It Up

Pour that glorious filling into your prepared dish, smoothing it out into an even layer. Now take the rest of your cotija cheese and shower it over the top. You’re laying the groundwork for even more flavor in every forkful!

Step 4: Crunchy Topping Magic

In a small bowl, toss together crushed tortilla chips and the remaining Monterey Jack cheese. Sprinkle this crunchy, cheesy blend all over the casserole. It’ll bake up into a golden crown that’s impossible to resist.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Slide the casserole dish onto the middle rack of your preheated oven and let it bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for bubbling edges and a perfectly golden top—the kind that makes you want to dive in right away.

Step 6: Finish and Serve Warm

Let your Street Corn Chicken Casserol rest for a few minutes so the filling sets. Top it with more fresh cilantro, extra lime wedges, and hot sauce if you like a kick. Serve while warm for maximum gooey, tangy, crunchy goodness!

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Casserol

Garnishes

These finishing touches make your Street Corn Chicken Casserol truly shine. A generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds color and brightness, while lime wedges provide extra zest for anyone who loves an extra citrusy punch. Finish with a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce for a bit of heat and a restaurant-worthy touch.

Side Dishes

This casserole is deliciously rich on its own, but sides can elevate your meal into a real feast. Try serving with a light green salad, classic Mexican rice, black beans, or even a fresh tomato salsa on the side. Warm flour tortillas or a basket of chips are fantastic for scooping and savoring every bit.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeding a crowd or want to impress at a gathering, serve Street Corn Chicken Casserol in individual ramekins or little mason jars for a fun twist. Top each with mini lime wedges, a dollop of extra sour cream, or a bright sprinkle of cotija for serious wow factor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply cover the casserole dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to an airtight container. The Street Corn Chicken Casserol will keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days without losing its flavor or texture.

Freezing

Need to make dinner really easy for future you? Make and assemble your Street Corn Chicken Casserol ahead of time but hold off on baking and adding the crunchy topping. Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, add the chip and cheese topping, and bake as directed.

Reheating

To reheat, simply cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20 minutes for a whole pan or a few minutes if you’re just reheating individual servings. For a crispier topping, uncover for the last few minutes of baking. You can also use a microwave for quick leftovers, but the oven is best for returning the crunch to that golden topping.

FAQs

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Shredded turkey or pork would work beautifully, or you can make a vegetarian version by swapping in black beans or roasted vegetables for a completely meatless Street Corn Chicken Casserol experience.

Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, just be sure to use gluten-free tortilla chips for the topping, and double-check that all your seasonings and cheeses are certified gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you’re all set!

Can I prepare Street Corn Chicken Casserol ahead for a party?

Definitely! You can fully assemble the casserole (minus the topping), cover and refrigerate for up to a day. When ready to serve, add the chip and cheese topping just before baking so it stays crunchy and fresh.

What can I substitute for cotija cheese?

If you can’t find cotija, feta is the closest substitute. Both bring a salty, crumbly bite to the Street Corn Chicken Casserol and complement the creamy filling perfectly.

How spicy is the casserole, and can I adjust the heat?

The spice level is mild as written, but you can easily dial it up or down. Add extra chili powder, a sprinkle of cayenne, or your favorite hot sauce to the filling for more heat, or keep it as is for a kid-friendly meal.

Final Thoughts

This is the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for every occasion—chilly evenings, family get-togethers, or anytime you crave something soothing and bold. Give Street Corn Chicken Casserol a try, and watch it quickly claim its place at the top of your comfort food favorites list!