Looking for a quick, flavorful dish that brings a little fiesta to your dinner table? This Ground Chicken Mexican Corn Recipe is your answer! Packed with juicy ground chicken, sweet Mexican corn, and a hint of spice, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty yet easy to whip up.
Imagine the savory goodness of taco-seasoned chicken blending with the creamy richness of cotija cheese and the zesty brightness of fresh lime juice—all in one pan! Whether you’re craving a healthy Mexican dish or just want to switch up your dinner routine, this recipe has you covered.
So, grab your skillet and let’s turn simple ingredients into a flavor-packed meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Table of Contents
Key Benefits of This Ground Chicken Mexican Corn Recipe
Why will you love this recipe? Besides being incredibly tasty, this Ground Chicken Mexican Corn Recipe checks all the right boxes for a go-to weeknight meal. Here’s why:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this is the perfect one-pan chicken recipe for busy nights when you want something delicious without the fuss.
- Healthy & Flavor-Packed: Lean ground chicken keeps it light, while the mix of spices, sweet Mexican corn, and zesty lime juice adds layers of flavor without piling on extra calories.
- Versatile & Customizable: Whether you prefer it spicy with extra jalapeños or creamy with a dash of sour cream, this dish adapts to your taste buds. Plus, it’s great as a taco filling, over rice, or even in a corn and chicken casserole.
- Family-Friendly: The mild heat and vibrant flavors make it a hit with both kids and adults. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit everyone at the table.
- Budget-Friendly Ingredients: Most of the items—like black beans, bell peppers, and ground chicken—are pantry staples, making it an affordable yet satisfying meal.
This recipe isn’t just about cooking; it’s about bringing people together over a plate of comforting, flavor-packed goodness. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for the Perfect Ground Chicken Mexican Corn Recipe
Before we jump into cooking, let’s gather everything you’ll need. This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a dish bursting with Mexican-inspired flavors. Don’t worry—most of these items are likely already in your pantry or fridge!
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken – Lean and light, it’s the perfect base for soaking up all those spices.
- 1 ½ cups corn kernels – Fresh, canned, or frozen Mexican corn (think sweet and juicy!) will work here.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced – Adds a pop of color and a slight sweetness to balance the spice.
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped – For a mild, savory depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Because garlic makes everything better!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing and bringing everything together.
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters:
- 1 tablespoon chili powder – For that smoky, spicy kick that defines a great Mexican dish.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin – Adds warm, earthy undertones.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – For an extra layer of smoky goodness.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Season as you go to build flavor.
Creamy & Tangy Additions:
- ¼ cup sour cream – Gives a creamy texture to the final dish (optional, but highly recommended!).
- ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese – This salty, crumbly cheese brings an authentic Mexican street corn vibe.
- Juice of 1 lime – Brightens everything up with a zesty finish.
Garnishes (Optional but Delicious):
- Fresh cilantro, chopped – For that fresh, herby finish.
- Sliced jalapeños – If you like a little extra heat.
- Diced avocado – Adds a creamy, buttery contrast to the spices.
How to Make Ground Chicken Mexican Corn Recipe
Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into making this delicious Ground Chicken Mexican Corn Recipe! This simple, one-pan dish comes together quickly, making it a perfect choice for a busy weeknight dinner. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering, flavorful meal in no time.
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, and minced garlic. Sauté the veggies for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and fragrant. The combination of bell pepper, onion, and garlic creates a great flavor base for your dish.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Chicken
Next, add ground chicken to the skillet. Break the chicken apart with a spatula as it cooks. Stir frequently, and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. As the chicken cooks, it will absorb all the wonderful flavors from the sautéed veggies, making it tender and tasty.
Step 3: Add the Seasonings
Once the chicken is cooked, it’s time to spice things up! Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir everything together to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This mix of spices will give your dish the perfect balance of smoky, earthy, and mildly spicy flavors.
Step 4: Stir in the Corn
Now, add your corn kernels to the skillet. Whether you’re using frozen, canned, or fresh corn, it will add a delightful sweetness and texture to the dish. Stir the corn in with the chicken and spices, and let it cook for another 3-4 minutes until it’s heated through and slightly tender. The corn will soak up the spices, giving the dish a rich, vibrant flavor.
Step 5: Add Creaminess and Zest
To make this dish extra creamy and zesty, stir in the sour cream and lime juice. The sour cream will add a smooth richness that balances the heat of the spices, while the lime juice will brighten up the flavors with its fresh, tangy kick. Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is cooked and combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your dish with a generous sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese and some fresh cilantro. If you’re craving a little extra heat, add some sliced jalapeños or top with diced avocado for a creamy contrast. These garnishes will add color, freshness, and even more flavor to your dish!
Enjoy this easy, flavorful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Pro Tips and Variations for the Ground Chicken Mexican Corn Recipe
This Ground Chicken Mexican Corn Recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust the flavors and ingredients to suit your personal taste. Whether you want to make it spicier, creamier, or turn it into a completely different dish, here are some pro tips and variations to elevate your cooking experience.
1. Add Extra Heat
If you’re a fan of spicy food, there are several ways to add a kick to this dish:
- Jalapeños: Slice them thinly and add them in with the onions and bell peppers for an early burst of heat.
- Chipotle Powder: Swap out or add this smoky spice for a deeper, spicier flavor.
- Cayenne Pepper: A pinch of cayenne will give the dish a noticeable heat without overpowering it.
2. Make It Creamier
For a richer, more indulgent dish, consider swapping out the sour cream for Greek yogurt or Mexican crema. This will give the recipe an even smoother texture. You can also stir in a dollop of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream to achieve a more decadent feel.
3. Switch Up the Protein
While ground chicken is delicious and lean, feel free to make substitutions based on your preferences:
- Ground Turkey: This works well in place of chicken and offers a similar texture.
- Ground Beef: For a more hearty and savory option, try using ground beef or even chorizo for an added depth of flavor.
- Vegetarian Version: If you want a meatless meal, try crumbled tempeh, tofu, or even black beans as a protein alternative. These choices provide great texture and make the dish plant-based.
4. Mix in More Veggies
This recipe is a perfect canvas for adding extra veggies. Try tossing in some of these for added nutrition and flavor:
- Zucchini: Dice it up and add it in with the onions for a mild, tender texture.
- Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach at the end of cooking to add a boost of leafy greens.
- Frozen Peas: These sweet little veggies complement the corn perfectly and add color to the dish.
5. Make It a Meal
Want to transform this Ground Chicken Mexican Corn Recipe into a hearty meal? Here are some ideas:
- Serve over Rice: This is a great way to turn the dish into a filling meal. Use white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa for a nutritious base.
- Tacos: Spoon the mixture into corn tortillas for a simple, flavorful taco night.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Hollow out bell peppers and stuff them with the mixture for a fun twist.
6. Add a Tangy Drizzle
For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle some avocado crema or Mexican crema over the top. It adds a fresh, creamy element that pairs perfectly with the dish’s spices and heat.
7. Perfect for Meal Prep
This recipe is also fantastic for meal prepping! You can easily make a large batch and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for later. When reheating, you can even add a bit more sour cream or lime juice to freshen it up.
Serving Suggestions for Ground Chicken Mexican Corn Recipe
Now that your Ground Chicken Mexican Corn Recipe is ready, it’s time to think about how to serve it! This dish is incredibly versatile, and there are plenty of ways to pair it with sides, toppings, and additional elements to make it a complete, well-rounded meal. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your dish and add a little extra flavor and fun!
1. Over Rice or Quinoa
Serving the Ground Chicken Mexican Corn over a bed of rice or quinoa makes it a filling meal. You can choose:
- White Rice: For a classic pairing that’s soft and comforting.
- Brown Rice: For a nutty, whole-grain option with extra fiber.
- Quinoa: For a protein-packed alternative that adds a slight crunch.
2. Tacos or Burritos
For a more casual meal, serve the Ground Chicken Mexican Corn as a taco or burrito filling. Just warm up some soft corn tortillas or flour tortillas, fill them with the mixture, and top with your favorite taco toppings like:
- Sliced avocado
- Shredded lettuce
- Sour cream
- Salsa or pico de gallo
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers
For a fun twist, hollow out bell peppers and stuff them with the flavorful chicken and corn mixture. Bake them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, and you’ll have a hearty, colorful dish that’s perfect for dinner.
4. Pair with a Side Salad
Balance out the richness of the dish with a light side salad. A fresh avocado salad, cilantro-lime coleslaw, or a simple mixed green salad with a citrus dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the spiced chicken and sweet corn.
5. With Tortilla Chips or Nachos
For a crowd-pleasing option, serve the Ground Chicken Mexican Corn as a nacho topping or alongside crispy tortilla chips. This is perfect for game day or a casual gathering. Top the nachos with melted cheese and bake them for a quick snack that everyone will love.
6. Pair with Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
For a true Mexican feast, pair this dish with Mexican street corn (elote). The creamy, cheesy, and smoky flavors of elote will complement the savory chicken and sweet corn in the main dish.
7. Add Sliced Jalapeños or Pickled Red Onions
If you like a little extra kick, serve the dish with sliced jalapeños or pickled red onions. These toppings add acidity and heat, balancing the richness of the chicken and corn while adding a tangy pop of flavor.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a meal that’s full of flavor, easy to make, and customizable to your tastes, then this Ground Chicken Mexican Corn Recipe is exactly what you need. The combination of lean ground chicken, sweet corn, and bold spices creates a satisfying dish that can be enjoyed in many ways—whether as a main course, taco filling, or even a fun side.
This recipe not only delivers on flavor but also on convenience. It’s quick enough to whip up on a busy weeknight, but it’s also hearty enough to serve for a weekend gathering. The best part is, you can adapt it to fit your dietary preferences and spice level. From adding more veggies to swapping proteins, the possibilities are endless!
By following the simple steps outlined above, you’ll end up with a dish that’s rich in flavor, fresh in texture, and sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
So, whether you decide to enjoy it over rice, in a taco, or as a stand-alone dish, this Ground Chicken Mexican Corn recipe is a great way to bring a little taste of Mexico to your table. It’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser that’ll keep everyone coming back for more!
Enjoy your cooking adventure, and feel free to make it your own with the variations we’ve discussed. Happy cooking!
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ground chicken mexican corn recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken – Lean and light it’s the perfect base for soaking up all those spices.
- 1 ½ cups corn kernels – Fresh canned, or frozen Mexican corn (think sweet and juicy!) will work here.
- 1 red bell pepper diced – Adds a pop of color and a slight sweetness to balance the spice.
- 1 small red onion finely chopped – For a mild, savory depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic minced – Because garlic makes everything better!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing and bringing everything together.
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters:
- 1 tablespoon chili powder – For that smoky spicy kick that defines a great Mexican dish.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin – Adds warm earthy undertones.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – For an extra layer of smoky goodness.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Season as you go to build flavor.
Creamy & Tangy Additions:
- ¼ cup sour cream – Gives a creamy texture to the final dish optional, but highly recommended!.
- ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese – This salty crumbly cheese brings an authentic Mexican street corn vibe.
- Juice of 1 lime – Brightens everything up with a zesty finish.
Garnishes (Optional but Delicious):
- Fresh cilantro chopped – For that fresh, herby finish.
- Sliced jalapeños – If you like a little extra heat.
- Diced avocado – Adds a creamy buttery contrast to the spices.
Notes
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 16g
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 480mg
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the ground chicken with another protein?
Yes, absolutely! If you’re not a fan of ground chicken, feel free to swap it with ground turkey, ground beef, or even ground pork. For a plant-based option, try using textured vegetable protein (TVP) or lentils for a hearty, meat-free version that still provides great texture and flavor.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love some heat, there are a few ways to make this Ground Chicken Mexican Corn Recipe spicier:
. Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of chipotle chili powder while cooking the chicken for a smoky, spicy kick.
. Stir in cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to increase the heat level.
. For a fiery topping, drizzle on your favorite hot sauce or spicy salsa before serving.
3. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Definitely! This dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can cook it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together and get even better the next day.
If you want to freeze it, store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and reheat in a skillet or microwave when you’re ready to eat.
4. What are some good sides to serve with this dish?
Pair your Ground Chicken Mexican Corn with these tasty sides for a well-rounded meal:
. Mexican rice or quinoa for a hearty base.
. Tortilla chips or nachos for a crunchy snack.
. Fresh guacamole or sour cream to add creamy richness.
. A side salad with a tangy lime dressing for balance.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to use gluten-free tortillas if you decide to serve it in wraps or tacos.
Corn tortillas are a great option for keeping the dish entirely gluten-free.
6. Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen corn works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it first before adding it to the skillet, or you can toss it directly into the pan if you’re short on time. It’s a great way to save time while still getting that delicious corn sweetness.
7. How can I make the recipe creamier?
To add a creamy element to this dish, you can mix in a spoonful of cream cheese, Mexican crema, or even sour cream while cooking. For a healthier alternative, try adding Greek yogurt or avocado after cooking for a velvety, creamy finish.
These FAQs should help answer any burning questions you may have while preparing your Ground Chicken Mexican Corn. Don’t hesitate to get creative with the ingredients and customize it to your preferences. Happy cooking, and enjoy!