As a passionate home cook, I find joy in creating meals that bring my family together, and Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken is one of those magical recipes. The aroma of spices and creamy cheese wafting through the kitchen instantly transports me to the bustling streets of Mexico, where elote vendors serve up their delicious corn creations. This dish is not just about flavor; it’s about the memories we create around the dinner table. With tender chicken, sweet corn, and a rich, cheesy sauce, Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken is a comforting meal that warms both the heart and the belly, making it a perfect choice for any weeknight dinner.
What is Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken?
Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken is a delightful dish that marries the essence of Mexican street food with the ease of slow cooking. Inspired by the popular elote, or Mexican street corn, this recipe features tender chicken breasts simmered with sweet corn, creamy cheeses, and zesty spices. The result is a comforting, flavorful meal that embodies the spirit of communal dining, where families gather to enjoy hearty, satisfying food. This dish not only highlights the rich culinary traditions of Mexico but also offers a modern twist that makes it accessible for home cooks everywhere.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken
- Convenience: Simply add all ingredients to the slow cooker and let it work its magic.
- Flavorful: The creamy, cheesy sauce combined with spices creates a mouthwatering experience.
- Health Benefits: High in protein and gluten-free, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.
- Family Appeal: The rich flavors are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Who It’s For
This recipe is perfect for busy families seeking a quick and delicious meal, health-conscious cooks looking for nutritious options, and food lovers eager to explore globally inspired flavors in their own kitchens.
When to Cook It
Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken is ideal for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a versatile dish that can easily adapt to various settings, making it a go-to recipe for any busy home cook.
- 2 lbs chicken breasts: The base of the dish, providing protein and tenderness. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained: Adds sweetness and texture. Fresh or frozen corn can be used as alternatives.
- 1 cup cream cheese: Creates a creamy sauce. Neufchâtel cheese can be a lighter substitute.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds flavor and richness. Feel free to swap with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a kick.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Enhances creaminess. Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative.
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro: Provides freshness and a burst of flavor. Parsley can be used if cilantro isn’t your favorite.
- 1 tsp chili powder: Adds warmth and depth. Adjust to taste or use smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavor. Fresh minced garlic can be used for a more robust taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning. Always adjust according to your preference.
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly spread out.
- Add the drained corn, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, chopped cilantro, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper on top of the chicken.
- Using a spatula or spoon, gently stir to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.
- Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, mixing it well with the creamy sauce.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional cilantro if desired, and enjoy the comforting flavors!
- Stevia: A natural sweetener with zero calories, perfect for adding sweetness without raising blood sugar levels.
- Monk fruit: Another natural option that provides sweetness without calories or carbs.
- Allulose: A low-calorie sugar that mimics the taste and texture of sugar without the glycemic impact.
Avoid using honey or maple syrup, as they can significantly increase blood sugar levels.
- Slow cooker
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Two forks (for shredding chicken)
- Serving dish
- Slow cooker
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Two forks (for shredding chicken)
- Serving dish
- Prep Ahead: Many chefs recommend prepping your ingredients the night before. Chop the cilantro, measure out the spices, and even place everything in the slow cooker insert. This way, you can simply plug it in and start cooking in the morning.
- Layer Wisely: To ensure even cooking, place the chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker and layer the other ingredients on top. This helps the chicken absorb all the flavors as it cooks.
- Don’t Skip the Shredding: Shredding the chicken in the slow cooker allows it to soak up the creamy sauce, enhancing the flavor. Use two forks to shred it right before serving for the best texture.
- Experiment with Spices: Renowned chefs suggest adjusting the spices to your taste. If you love heat, add more chili powder or even some cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice just before serving can elevate the dish, adding brightness and freshness that complements the creamy flavors.
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce thickens too much.
- Serving Suggestions: Reheat and serve over rice, in tortillas, or with a side of fresh salad for a quick meal.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can lead to dry, tough meat. Stick to the recommended cooking times for the best texture.
- Not Shredding the Chicken: Failing to shred the chicken means missing out on the creamy sauce that enhances the flavor. Shredding allows the chicken to absorb all the deliciousness.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Neglecting to season properly can result in a bland dish. Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving to ensure maximum flavor.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients directly affects the final dish. Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken and cheeses for the best results.
- Ignoring the Garnish: Skipping the fresh cilantro or lime juice can make the dish feel flat. A simple garnish can elevate the flavors and presentation significantly.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by an hour or so to ensure they are fully cooked.
Q: Is Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Q: Can I make Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken ahead of time?
It depends. You can prep the ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge, but it’s best to cook it fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
Q: How can I make Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken spicier?
Yes, you can add diced jalapeños or increase the amount of chili powder to give it an extra kick.
Q: Can I substitute the cream cheese in Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken?
Yes, you can use Neufchâtel cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter option without sacrificing creaminess.
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of Mexican cuisine with the convenience of slow cooking. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or looking for a satisfying meal to enjoy, this recipe is sure to impress. I encourage you to try it out and share your experiences in the comments below. If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family so they can enjoy it too!
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Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and easy recipe for Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Add the drained corn, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, cilantro, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix well with the sauce.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños.
- This dish pairs well with rice or tortillas.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken, Easy Chicken Recipe, Mexican Chicken Dish