Name: Creamy Mexican Street Corn Soup That Will Warm Your Soul
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon Olive oil (for sautéing); 1 medium Red onion (diced); 1 medium Jalapeño (diced, seeds removed for milder heat); 3 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 cups Fire-roasted corn (or fresh/canned); 4 ounces Diced green chiles; 1 teaspoon Tajín seasoning; 1 teaspoon Ground cumin; 1 teaspoon Chili powder; to taste Salt; to taste Black pepper; 4 cups Chicken stock (or low-sodium broth); ½ cup Sour cream (or full-fat Greek yogurt); 1 cup Shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1 medium Lime (juice); ¼ cup Chopped fresh cilantro; to taste Crumbled queso fresco

On a chilly evening, the aroma of spicy-sweet corn wafting through the kitchen instantly transports me back to vibrant street corners in Mexico, where vendors serve up warm bowls of goodness to eager crowds. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on this culinary delight: Mexican Street Corn Soup. It's a hearty, comforting dish that quickly comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends. This recipe not only celebrates the beloved flavors of elote, but it also offers a protein-packed meal featuring tender chicken and creamy goodness that will have everyone scraping their bowls clean. Ready to bring a little fiesta to your dinner table? Let’s dive into this scrumptious adventure together!

Why is this soup a must-try?

Comforting Warmth: A bowl of this Mexican Street Corn Soup is like a warm hug, perfect for chilly evenings.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of fire-roasted corn, spices, and shredded chicken creates a rich and savory experience with every spoonful.

Quick & Easy: In just 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious homemade meal that easily outshines any fast food option.

Versatile Delight: Add toppings like avocado or hot sauce for a personal touch that suits every palate.

Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family and friends, making it great for gatherings; explore more comforting dishes in our Hearty Soups Collection.

Mexican Street Corn Soup Ingredients

• To create a creamy, delightful Mexican Street Corn Soup, gather these ingredients!

For the Soup Base

Olive oil – use this to sauté the onion and jalapeño for a rich, flavorful start.
Red onion – provides a sweet and slightly tangy flavor that enhances the soup.
Jalapeño – adds a delightful kick; remove seeds for milder heat.
Garlic – minced for a robust aroma and depth of flavor.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – a lean, protein-rich addition that makes the soup hearty.
Fire-roasted corn (or fresh/canned) – brings that signature sweetness and smoky essence.
Diced green chiles – offer a gentle spice and layer of flavor to the soup.
Tajín seasoning – a key ingredient that enriches the flavor profile with its zesty notes.
Ground cumin – lends an earthy aroma that beautifully complements the other spices.
Chili powder – adds warmth and a touch of smokiness.
Salt & Black pepper – seasoning to taste, ensuring all the flavors shine through.
Chicken stock (or low-sodium broth) – forms the flavorful liquid base of the soup.

For the Creamy Finish

Sour cream (or full-fat Greek yogurt) – adds luscious creaminess that balances the spices.
Shredded Monterey Jack cheese – melts beautifully, enhancing the soup's richness.
Juice of 1 lime – brightens the dish, providing a refreshing contrast to the creamy elements.
Chopped fresh cilantro – adds a burst of freshness that elevates every bite.

For Garnish

Crumbled queso fresco – offers a salty, creamy topping to finish your soup perfectly.

Embrace your culinary journey with this Mexican Street Corn Soup recipe and enjoy the vibrant flavors and comforting warmth it brings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mexican Street Corn Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the diced red onion and jalapeño, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until the onions begin to soften and turn translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, creating a flavorful base for the Mexican Street Corn Soup.

Step 2: Incorporate the Chicken and Corn
Next, add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the pot, followed by the 4 cups of fire-roasted corn and 4 ounces of diced green chiles. Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon each of Tajín seasoning, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the chicken is well-coated with the spices.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Pour in the 4 cups of chicken stock, bringing the mixture to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 25 minutes. This allows the chicken to fully cook and the flavors of the Mexican Street Corn Soup to meld together beautifully, filling your kitchen with an inviting aroma.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken
After 25 minutes, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot using tongs. Let them cool slightly, then shred them into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring it into the soup to integrate the tender chicken throughout the other ingredients.

Step 5: Add Creaminess and Freshness
Stir in ½ cup of sour cream (or full-fat Greek yogurt), 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, the juice of 1 lime, and ¼ cup of chopped fresh cilantro into the soup. Continue to simmer on low heat for another 3 minutes, stirring frequently until everything is well combined and creamy, enriching the flavors of your Mexican Street Corn Soup.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls, generously topping each serving with crumbled queso fresco for that perfect creamy finish. For an extra touch, serve with additional cilantro and lime wedges on the side, encouraging everyone to enjoy this delightful and comforting Mexican Street Corn Soup.

How to Store and Freeze Mexican Street Corn Soup

Fridge: Store leftover Mexican Street Corn Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing for optimal freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags for up to 3 months. Leave some space for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm on the stovetop over low heat. Stir in a bit of chicken stock to revitalize the creamy texture if needed.

Storage Tips: Always label containers with the date so you can enjoy your delicious Mexican Street Corn Soup at its best!

Expert Tips for Mexican Street Corn Soup

Ingredient Quality: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially for the corn and chicken. This enhances the flavor of your Mexican Street Corn Soup significantly.
Spice Control: Adjust the amount of jalapeño and Tajín according to your spice tolerance. Always start with less and add more if needed to avoid overwhelming heat.
Shredding Chicken: Let the chicken rest after cooking for easier shredding. Use two forks to pull it apart, ensuring even, bite-sized pieces in your soup.
Creaminess Factor: For extra creaminess, consider using full-fat sour cream or adding more cheese as you finish cooking the soup.
Customize Toppings: Personalize your soup by adding toppings like avocado slices, crispy bacon, or cornbread croutons for a unique twist and added texture.
Reheating Tips: When reheating leftovers, add a splash of chicken stock to loosen the soup's consistency and bring back its creamy texture.

Mexican Street Corn Soup Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to suit your taste buds!

Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with black beans or chickpeas for a hearty, plant-based option that’s packed with protein.
Spicy Kick: Add extra diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a mouthwatering kick that will light up your taste buds.
Creamy Vegan: Substitute sour cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a rich, dairy-free delight.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle peppers for an added layer of smoky depth that enhances the overall experience.
Corn Varieties: Try using different types of corn such as sweet corn or roasted corn to bring a unique flavor twist to your soup.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like oregano or basil during cooking for a fragrant freshness that elevates every spoonful of Mexican Street Corn Soup.
Topping Ideas: Get creative with toppings; crumbled tortilla chips, avocado slices, or a drizzle of lime crema add delightful textures and colors.
Heartier Base: For an extra-special touch, serve this soup over a bed of cilantro-lime rice for a heartwarming twist that makes it even more comforting.

Explore these options to make this Mexican Street Corn Soup your own, and enjoy every sip of your customized creation!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Mexican Street Corn Soup in advance is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeks! You can chop the red onion, jalapeño, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can cook the soup base (steps 1-4) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; just wait to add the sour cream, cheese, lime juice, and cilantro until you're ready to enjoy. To maintain the soup's creamy texture, stir in these ingredients right before serving, allowing it to heat through gently. With these steps, you'll savor a delicious homemade meal with minimal last-minute effort!

What to Serve with Mexican Street Corn Soup

Embrace the warmth of flavors by pairing your soup with delightful accompaniments that elevate every bite.

Crispy Tortilla Chips: The crunchy texture adds a satisfying contrast to the creamy soup while soaking up those rich flavors. Perfect for dipping!
Guacamole: Creamy and packed with avocados, this vibrant side balances the spice of the soup and adds a refreshing touch with every bite.
Mexican Rice: Fluffy, spiced rice complements the soup well, offering a filling bite that enhances the overall meal experience. A colorful addition to your plate!
Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, peppers, and onions bring freshness and healthy elements that beautifully balance the richness of the soup.
Fresh Cornbread: A warm, slightly sweet cornbread is perfect for scooping up the soup, delivering comforting, nostalgic flavors that pair harmoniously.
Cilantro Lime Rice: Bright and zesty, this flavorful side mirrors the soup's essence and adds a unique twist to your dining experience, making every bite exciting.
Horchata: This sweet, cinnamon-spiced beverage offers a cooling contrast to spicy notes in the soup, making it a delightful drink choice for your meal.

Mexican Street Corn Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best corn for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh corn is ideal for this Mexican Street Corn Soup, but if you’re using canned or frozen, make sure it’s labeled "fire-roasted" for that smoky flavor. If using fresh, look for ears with bright green husks and plump, moist kernels. Avoid any with dark spots or dryness.

How long can I store leftover Mexican Street Corn Soup?
You can keep leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure the soup cools completely before sealing. If you plan to enjoy it beyond that timeframe, consider freezing it to keep its flavors intact.

Can I freeze Mexican Street Corn Soup? If so, how?
Yes, freezing is a great option! To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. Leave some space for expansion and label with the date. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and reheat on the stovetop with a splash of chicken stock.

What can I do if my soup comes out too thick?
If you find your soup is thicker than desired, simply add a bit of chicken stock or water while reheating. Stir it in gradually until you reach the desired consistency. This will help restore its creamy texture without sacrificing flavor.

Are there any dietary considerations for making this recipe?
If you're concerned about allergies, be aware that this soup contains dairy (sour cream and Monterey Jack cheese). For a lactose-free option, try using coconut yogurt or a dairy-free cheese alternative. Also, make sure to adjust the spicy elements (jalapeño and Tajín) based on your or your guests’ comfort levels with spice.

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! You can use shredded rotisserie chicken to save time, or if you prefer a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for black beans or chickpeas. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is heated through but not overcooked.