Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder

Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe - Authentic and Bursting with Flavor

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder is a delicious and hearty soup that combines the flavors of chicken, corn, cheese, and spices. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests with a flavorful and satisfying meal.

History

Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder is a fusion of Mexican and American cuisine, combining traditional Mexican ingredients like corn and chilies with American staples like chicken and cheese. This recipe has evolved over time to become a popular comfort food dish enjoyed by many.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) chicken breasts, skinless and boneless
0.5 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp butter or margarine
2 chicken bouillon cubes
1 cup hot water
0.5 tsp ground cumin
2 cup half and half or light cream
2 cup shredded monterey jack cheese
16 oz (454 g) cream-style corn
4 oz (113 g) canned chopped green chiles, undrained
0.25 tsp hot pepper sauce, or to taste
1 medium tomato, chopped

How to prepare

Cut the chicken into bite-size pieces.
In a dutch oven, brown the chicken, onion, and garlic in butter until the chicken is no longer pink.
Dissolve the bouillon in hot water.
Add it to the pan along with cumin; bring it to a boil.
Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes.
Add the cream, cheese, corn, chilies, and hot pepper sauce.
Cook and stir over low heat until the cheese is melted.
Stir in the tomato.
Serve immediately.

Variations

Add diced potatoes or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or cheddar, for a unique twist.
Substitute the chicken with cooked shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cut the chicken into bite-size pieces for even cooking.

- Browning the chicken, onion, and garlic in butter adds depth of flavor to the dish.

- Dissolving the bouillon cubes in hot water before adding them to the soup ensures they fully dissolve and distribute evenly.

- Stir the soup frequently while cooking over low heat to prevent the cheese from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

- Adjust the amount of hot pepper sauce to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder with a side of crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the chicken, onion, and garlic before adding the liquid ingredients helps develop the flavors of the dish.

- Simmering the soup over low heat allows the flavors to meld together and the cheese to melt smoothly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken bouillon cubes for a vegetarian version.

- Substitute heavy cream for light cream for a richer and creamier soup.

Make Ahead Tips

Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream for a colorful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder with a crisp green salad or a side of Mexican rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder contains approximately 30 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and may contain gluten (depending on the brand of bouillon cubes used).

Summary

Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder is a flavorful and comforting soup that combines the best of Mexican and American cuisine. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and hearty ingredients, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder. It was a warm summer day, and I had decided to visit the local farmer's market in search of fresh ingredients for dinner that evening. As I wandered through the vibrant stalls, the smell of ripe tomatoes and crisp bell peppers filled the air, making my stomach grumble in anticipation.

I made my way to the vegetable stand, where I spotted a large bin overflowing with ears of sweet corn. The kernels were plump and golden, and I couldn't resist grabbing a few to take home with me. As I reached for the corn, a kindly Mexican woman approached me with a smile.

"Would you like a recipe for a delicious Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder?" she asked in a melodic voice.

I was taken aback by her offer but nodded eagerly, intrigued by the prospect of trying something new. The woman handed me a worn piece of paper with handwritten instructions and a list of ingredients. She explained each step in detail, emphasizing the importance of using fresh corn and spices to bring out the authentic flavors of the dish.

I thanked the woman profusely and promised to give the recipe a try. As I made my way back home, I couldn't shake the feeling of excitement that had settled in my chest. I couldn't wait to whip up a steaming pot of Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder for my family that evening.

Once I arrived home, I rolled up my sleeves and got to work gathering all the necessary ingredients. I diced the onions, chopped the bell peppers, and shredded the cooked chicken with care. The sweet scent of corn filled the kitchen as I stripped the kernels from the cobs, savoring their juicy crunch between my teeth.

I followed the woman's instructions to the letter, sautéing the vegetables in a fragrant mix of cumin, chili powder, and garlic until they were soft and caramelized. I added the chicken broth and corn, letting the ingredients simmer together in a rich, flavorful broth. The final touch was a dollop of creamy sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, adding a touch of brightness to the hearty soup.

As I ladled the steaming chowder into bowls for my family, I couldn't help but marvel at how a chance encounter at the farmer's market had led me to discover such a delicious and comforting recipe. The soup was a hit with my loved ones, who praised the unique blend of flavors and textures that made each spoonful a delight to savor.

From that day on, Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder became a staple in our household, a dish that brought us together around the dinner table and filled our hearts with warmth and contentment. I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the woman's gift of culinary wisdom to those who appreciated good food and good company.

Years passed, and the recipe for Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder remained a beloved tradition in our family. I continued to make it on special occasions and lazy Sunday afternoons, delighting in the memories of that fateful day at the farmer's market and the kind woman who had introduced me to its magic.

To this day, whenever I prepare a pot of Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder, I think of the woman who shared her recipe with me and the joy it has brought to my life and the lives of those I love. It is a dish that embodies the spirit of generosity and community, a reminder of the simple pleasures that can be found in a bowl of soup shared with family and friends. And for that, I am forever grateful.