Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken: A Flavorful One-Pot Wonder
The Memory Behind This Treat
I’ll never forget the first time I attempted to recreate the flavors of Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken in my own kitchen. It was a breezy Saturday, the kind that carries the scent of blooming flowers through the window. I was inspired by a trip to a bustling Mexican street market with my grandmother. She had a knack for finding the best elote—grilled corn dripping with tangy lime and sprinkled with creamy cotija cheese. I wanted to capture that vibrant experience in a dish that brought the same joy and satisfaction.
As I gathered my ingredients, I could almost hear my grandmother’s voice guiding me, urging me to add a bit more chili powder for that extra kick. The kitchen soon filled with the tantalizing aroma of seasoned chicken mingling with garlic and onions. I realized that using the slow cooker wasn’t just convenient; it was a way to infuse every bite with layers of flavor. The addition of Greek yogurt was my own twist, a nod to keeping things light yet indulgent.
When the time came to serve, I topped the dish with extra cilantro and cotija cheese, just like my grandmother did with elote. The first taste brought a smile, the kind that happens when a memory is perfectly captured on a plate. Preparing this dish became more than just cooking; it was a journey back to those bustling market days, and a heartfelt reminder that even simple meals can transport us to cherished moments.
How To Make It (Mix & Ingredients)
Creating this Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken is a breeze, and it all starts by loading your trusty slow cooker. Begin by placing 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs in the pot—the perfect base for soaking up all those vibrant flavors. Add a diced onion and 6 cloves of minced garlic for that aromatic kick we all love. Sprinkle with 1 1/2 to 2 teaspoons each of Tajin and chili powder, plus a dash of kosher salt and pepper. Set your slow cooker to low and let it do its magic for 6 hours. Your kitchen will smell like a fiesta in no time!
Once the chicken is tender, mix in 2 drained cans of corn and a can of Rotel tomatoes with green chiles for a splash of color and zest. Stir in 1/3 cup of sour cream and a 5.3-ounce container of plain Greek yogurt (or if you’re in the mood, 2/3 cup of blended cottage cheese or mayo works too). Add 1/2 cup of chopped cilantro for a fresh, herby note. Let this simmer on low for another 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally to keep things creamy and delicious.
Before serving, top with extra Tajin, cilantro, and cotija cheese to finish the dish with a tangy, salty touch. Optional toppings like jalapenos, crushed Fritos, or tortilla chips can add that extra bit of crunch and heat if you desire. This Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken is not only effortless but a delightful dish that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy this one-pot wonder and embrace the flavors of a street food favorite with a healthy twist!
Make-Ahead & Storage
Preparing your Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken ahead of time can be a lifesaver on busy days. You can easily assemble all the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before. Pop it in the refrigerator, and when morning rolls around, simply place the insert in the slow cooker base and set it on low. This way, dinner will be ready and waiting for you after a long day.
Once cooked, this flavorful dish stores beautifully. Transfer any leftovers into airtight containers, and you can refrigerate them for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a microwave or on the stovetop. If you notice the sauce thickening up a bit, a splash of chicken broth or water will return it to its creamy consistency.
For those who love batch cooking, you can freeze this dish too! Simply portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room at the top for expansion. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then gently warm on the stove. You’ll still enjoy that creamy, zesty flavor, reminding you why this Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken is a weeknight winner. If you love this, you might also enjoy our other slow cooker meals that are perfect for make-ahead plans!
Best Ingredients & Party Variations
When crafting your Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken, using the best ingredients can make all the difference. Start with high-quality boneless, skinless chicken thighs; they’re juicy and absorb all those wonderful spices. For that authentic street corn flavor, opt for sweet corn canned or fresh, giving the dish its delightful pop of sweetness. I love using Tajin seasoning and chili powder to bring a zesty kick that’s hard to resist. If you’re watching calories, swapping in plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream is a game-changer—it keeps the dish creamy without sacrificing richness.
Now, let’s talk party variations. Elevate your dish by adding toppings like jalapenos for a fiery touch or crushed tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch. Want a smoky twist? Stir in some chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a deeper, smoky flavor. For a bit of tang, a sprinkle of lime juice just before serving can brighten up the dish beautifully. Hosting a keto-friendly gathering? Simply skip the corn and add extra bell peppers and zucchini to keep it low-carb yet flavorful.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or a lively party, these variations allow you to tailor the Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken to any occasion. Remember, the key is to have fun with flavors and embrace the delicious journey of cooking
FAQ’s About Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken
Can I put raw corn in the slow cooker with the chicken?
Absolutely, you can add raw corn directly into the slow cooker with the chicken. It will cook beautifully alongside the chicken, absorbing all the wonderful flavors from the spices and juices. Using canned corn as in this recipe is convenient and ensures tenderness. If you’re using fresh corn, just cut the kernels off the cob before adding them. This method keeps everything simple and saves you time and effort.
How long should chicken cook in a slow cooker to be fully done?
Chicken usually takes about 6 hours on low in a slow cooker to become tender and fully cooked. This time allows the flavors to meld well, resulting in juicy, flavorful chicken. If you’re using chicken thighs like in this recipe, they are forgiving and stay moist over longer cooking times. Just make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure safety. You can always check it with a meat thermometer to be sure.
Is it possible to slow cook chicken in 4 hours?
While 4 hours on high can work for boneless, skinless chicken, this recipe recommends cooking on low for about 6 hours for maximum tenderness. Slow cooking at a lower temperature helps develop richer flavors and ensures the chicken remains juicy. If you’re short on time, you can experiment with a higher setting, but keep an eye on the moisture levels. Adding extra sauce or broth can help avoid drying out.
Does corn become mushy in a slow cooker?
Corn holds up surprisingly well in a slow cooker. In this recipe, it softens without becoming mushy, maintaining a pleasant texture. Canned corn is particularly well-suited for slow cooking, as it’s already been partially cooked. If you prefer a bit of crunch, you could add some fresh corn during the last hour of cooking. This way, you get the best of both worlds: tender chicken and perfectly textured corn.
Conclusion
There you have it—Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken, a dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. This recipe has a special way of weaving together the rich textures and tastes that can transform a regular weeknight dinner into a cherished family memory. As the slow cooker does its magic, you’ll find moments to connect with loved ones or savor some well-deserved downtime.
Cooking can truly be a celebration of togetherness, and this dish is your invitation to create those moments. Whether you’re sharing stories over the dinner table or simply enjoying a quiet meal, this recipe is sure to warm your heart and your home.
I encourage you to give this one-pot wonder a try. Let it bring flavor and joy to your table as it has to mine. For more delicious recipes and kitchen inspiration, follow us on Facebook and Pinterest!
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Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken: A Flavorful One-Pot Wonder
- Total Time: 370
- Yield: 1 dish 1x
Description
A healthier version of street corn chicken with Greek yogurt, all cooked in a slow cooker.
Ingredients
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 onion, diced
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 teaspoons Tajin seasoning
1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
Kosher salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
2 (15-ounce) cans corn kernels, drained
1 (10-ounce) can Rotel tomatoes with green chiles
1/3 cup sour cream
5.3 ounces plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
1/2 cup cotija cheese
Optional: Jalapenos, crushed Fritos or tortilla chips, hot sauce
Instructions
1. Put chicken, onions, and garlic in the slow cooker. Season with Tajin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6 hours.
3. Add corn, Rotel tomatoes, sour cream, Greek yogurt, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 1-2 more hours, stirring occasionally.
4. Sprinkle with extra Tajin, cilantro, and cotija cheese before serving. Add optional toppings if desired.
Notes
For a creamy texture, stir occasionally during the last cooking hour.
Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 360
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American, Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 466 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
