Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken is a flavorful fusion of classic Mexican street corn and tender shredded chicken, all simmered in a rich, creamy sauce. This easy slow cooker dinner recipe is inspired by the flavors of “elote”, grilled corn slathered in mayo, cotija cheese, lime, and spices, but with the convenience of a dump-and-go crockpot method. Perfect for taco nights, burrito bowls, or weeknight meals, it’s tangy, cheesy, creamy, and packed with bold Southwestern flavor. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 3 cups frozen corn kernels (or fresh off the cob)
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, cubed
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ½ cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Optional toppings: extra cheese, hot sauce, lime wedges, chopped green onions
Preparation
Step 1: Place the chicken breasts or thighs into the bottom of a greased 6-quart slow cooker.
Step 2: Pour the frozen corn over the chicken, followed by the cubed cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and jalapeño (if using).
Step 3: Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender enough to shred.
Step 4: Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir well to combine everything.
Step 5: Add the lime juice, cotija cheese, and chopped cilantro. Mix until fully incorporated and creamy.
Step 6: Let the mixture warm for another 10–15 minutes on low to allow the flavors to meld. Stir once more before serving.
Variation
- For a spicier version, add hot sauce or diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
- Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to lighten the dish.
- Stir in a cup of black beans or cooked rice for added texture and heartiness.
- Use rotisserie chicken to cut down on cook time, just heat and mix all ingredients in the slow cooker for 1–2 hours on low.
- Serve over nachos, inside tortillas, or with cornbread for creative mealtime options.
Cooking Note
For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and mayonnaise for richness and to prevent separation during slow cooking. Be sure to cut the cream cheese into small cubes to help it melt evenly. If using fresh corn instead of frozen, cut it off the cob and add it directly, no need to pre-cook. The chicken will shred best when it’s fully cooked and hot, so don’t remove it too early. The mixture will thicken slightly as it cools.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken in various ways depending on the occasion. It’s perfect spooned over rice or tucked into warm tortillas for tacos or burritos. Top it with avocado slices, more cheese, fresh lime, or jalapeño slices for a bold presentation. It also works great as a dip with tortilla chips at parties or spread over tostadas for a quick meal. For a low-carb version, serve in lettuce cups or over cauliflower rice.
Tips
- Spray your slow cooker insert with nonstick spray for easier cleanup.
- Add chopped green onions or diced red bell pepper for extra texture and color.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days, this dish reheats well and even tastes better the next day.
- If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk before serving.
- Make it a complete bowl by adding shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, and beans.
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 5–6 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
Total Time: 6 hours
Nutritional Information
Calories: 480 per serving
Protein: 35g
Sodium: 730mg
FAQs
Can I use canned corn instead of frozen?
- Yes, drain the canned corn well before adding it to the slow cooker.
Can I freeze this dish?
- Yes, once fully cooled, place in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Can I skip the mayo?
- Yes, you can replace it with extra sour cream or Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier result.
What’s the best cheese substitute for cotija?
- Feta cheese works well, or you can use shredded Monterey Jack or even cheddar for a different flavor.
Is this dish gluten-free?
- Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check store-bought items like mayo or cheese if you’re serving someone with celiac.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken is the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, smoky, and cheesy flavors, all effortlessly brought together in the slow cooker. Inspired by traditional elote, it transforms those same beloved flavors into a hearty, protein-packed dish that can be enjoyed in endless ways. Whether served as a taco filling, burrito bowl topper, or dip for game day, this dish is versatile and packed with comforting flavor. With minimal prep and rich, restaurant-worthy taste, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to spice up their slow cooker rotation.