Step-by-step instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, corn, sour cream, shredded cheese, diced onion, milk, chili powder, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.
6. If you’d like, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the chips are golden brown.
7. Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Best ways to enjoy it

This casserole can be served straight from the oven, bubbly and golden. For fun presentation, you could dish it up in individual bowls and top each serving with fresh cilantro or a drizzle of lime juice. Pair it with a fresh green salad or some avocado slices to balance out the richness. It’s also fantastic served alongside black beans or Spanish rice for a Complete Mexican-inspired meal.

How to store

To keep leftovers fresh, store any uneaten casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to save some for later, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping it tightly. When you’re ready to reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake in the oven until warmed through. Always practice safe food handling to ensure quality and safety.

Helpful cooking tips

• Use rotisserie chicken for convenience; it lends great flavor and cuts down on prep time.
• Don’t skip the seasoning! Adjust the chili powder to your heat preference, and consider adding some cumin or lime zest for extra depth.
• If you don’t have shredded cheese, you can grate it yourself from a block; it typically melts better and has a fresher flavor.

Creative twists

Want to mix things up? Here are some fun variations to try:

• Try using grilled corn for a smokier flavor, or add jalapeños for some heat.
• Swap in other beans, like black beans or pinto beans, for added protein and fiber.
• For a lighter version, substitute half of the sour cream with Greek yogurt and replace some of the cheese with spinach.
• Experiment with different toppings such as guacamole or salsa for a fresh kick!

FAQs

What’s the prep time for the casserole?

Prep time is about 15-20 minutes; the bulk of the time is baking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble everything in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.

Is this casserole suitable for freezing?

Yes, it freezes beautifully! Just ensure it’s cooled first and stored in a freezer-safe container. Reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this Street Corn Chicken Casserole delivers both comfort and flavor, making it a go-to recipe that deserves a spot in your culinary repertoire!