There’s something irresistible about the bold flavors of Mexican street corn paired with the heartiness of chicken and the comfort of a bubbling casserole. Cheesy Street Corn Chicken Casserole combines all three into one dish that’s creamy, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Imagine tender pieces of chicken nestled in a bed of sweet corn, coated in a tangy, cheesy sauce, and baked until golden and bubbly. It’s the kind of recipe that feels indulgent yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
What I love most about this casserole is its balance. The sweetness of corn, the smokiness of spices like chili powder or paprika, and the creaminess of sour cream or mayonnaise work together beautifully. Add a generous layer of melted cheese, and you’ve got a dish that pleases everyone at the table.
I first made this casserole after craving the flavor of elote—classic Mexican street corn, but wanting a one-pan dinner that included protein. The result was a family favorite, hearty enough to serve on its own yet versatile enough to pair with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, Cheesy Street Corn Chicken Casserole is comfort food at its finest.
What Are the Five Ingredients in Corn Casserole?
The essentials
Classic corn casserole is famous for being one of the easiest side dishes around, built from five simple ingredients. Those staples are canned whole kernel corn, canned creamed corn, sour cream, melted butter, and a box of cornbread mix such as Jiffy.
Together, they create a casserole that’s creamy, soft, and slightly sweet. The cornbread mix adds structure, the creamed corn adds moisture, and sour cream keeps it tender. Butter deepens the flavor, while whole corn kernels bring bites of texture throughout. It’s amazing how just five ingredients can transform into a dish that feels comforting and indulgent.
Adapting for chicken casseroles
When adapting this concept into a Cheesy Street Corn Chicken Casserole, those five essentials inspire the base, but they’re enhanced with extra layers of flavor and protein. Adding shredded or diced chicken makes the casserole hearty enough for a full meal rather than just a side.
A mixture of Mexican-inspired seasonings, like chili powder, cumin, or smoked paprika—adds warmth. Sour cream or mayo balances the spices, while cheese melts into gooey richness. The classic five are still there, but by layering them with chicken and spices, you create a casserole that delivers the familiar comfort of corn casserole with a new, satisfying twist. It’s proof that the simplest foundations can be the most versatile.
How to Make Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole
Paula’s classic version
Paula Deen’s corn casserole is legendary because of its simplicity and reliability. Her recipe calls for one can of whole kernel corn, one can of creamed corn, one cup of sour cream, one stick of melted butter, and one box of Jiffy cornbread mix. Everything is mixed together in a bowl, poured into a greased baking dish, and baked at 350°F until golden brown on top and set in the center. It’s rich, creamy, and requires minimal effort. That’s why it shows up on so many holiday tables, it never fails to impress.
Transforming it into street corn chicken casserole
To adapt Paula’s base into Cheesy Street Corn Chicken Casserole, start by preparing her foundation, but fold in shredded cooked chicken for protein. Add chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika to bring smoky Mexican street corn flavor. Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, plus diced jalapeños for a kick. Before baking, top with extra cheese to create a bubbly, golden crust.
When it comes out of the oven, finish with a sprinkle of cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and a drizzle of lime juice for authentic elote-inspired flavor. Paula’s recipe provides the backbone, while these additions elevate it into a meal that feels festive, hearty, and perfect for family dinners. By combining her dependable casserole with bold street corn flavors, you get a dish that honors tradition while delivering something new and excitin
Is It Okay to Put Raw Chicken in a Casserole?
Cooking considerations
Many people wonder whether it’s safe to put raw chicken directly into a casserole. While technically possible, it isn’t recommended for dishes like Cheesy Street Corn Chicken Casserole. Raw chicken takes longer to cook through than vegetables or starches, and it may release juices that can make the dish watery. More importantly, uneven cooking poses a food safety risk if the chicken doesn’t reach 165°F internally.
For best results, it’s always safer to use pre-cooked chicken—whether shredded rotisserie chicken, baked chicken breasts, or leftover grilled chicken.
Benefits of cooked chicken
Using cooked chicken ensures the casserole bakes evenly and maintains the right texture. It also speeds up prep time, since you don’t need to worry about undercooking. Rotisserie chicken adds convenience and flavor, while baked or poached chicken can be seasoned to your liking. Once combined with sour cream, cheese, corn, and spices, the cooked chicken blends seamlessly into the casserole, absorbing flavor as it bakes.
This method gives you a dish that’s safe, hearty, and flavorful without unnecessary risk. While raw chicken can work in some layered casseroles, the creamy, cheesy texture of a street corn casserole benefits most from cooked chicken.
That way, you get tender bites of protein that complement the rich base rather than compete with it. Looking for another hearty protein dish? Try our Cottage Cheese Protein Power Bowl.
What Ingredients Are in Corn Casserole?
The traditional base
Corn casserole recipes vary, but most share a reliable set of ingredients. At their core, they include whole kernel corn, creamed corn, sour cream, butter, and cornbread mix. These staples create the signature creamy yet structured texture. Depending on the recipe, some also add eggs to help bind the mixture, sugar for sweetness, or extra cheese for richness. This adaptability is why corn casserole is so beloved, it’s simple but leaves plenty of room for creativity.
Loaded with street corn flair
For a Cheesy Street Corn Chicken Casserole, the ingredient list expands to include chicken, shredded cheese, chili powder, cumin, jalapeños, lime, and cilantro. Cotija cheese crumbled on top adds authentic street corn flavor, while a squeeze of lime juice brightens the richness. Fresh herbs bring color and freshness to balance the creamy base.
Together, these additions take the humble corn casserole and transform it into a full meal bursting with bold, zesty flavors. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own, yet festive enough for gatherings. What makes Cheesy Street Corn Chicken Casserole dishe so appealing is that you still get the comfort of a traditional corn casserole while enjoying the vibrant flair of Mexican-inspired street corn.It’s hearty enough to stand on its own, yet festive enough for gatherings. For a lighter but equally flavorful option, check our Roasted Chickpeas and Veggie Bowl
Cheesy Street Corn Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a large casserole dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine whole corn, creamed corn, sour cream, melted butter, and Jiffy mix until smooth.
- Stir in shredded chicken, shredded cheese, jalapeño, and spices until evenly mixed.
- Pour mixture into prepared dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes until golden and set in the center.
- Remove from oven and cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Top with cilantro, lime juice, and cotija cheese for garnish.
Nutrition
Notes
From your stove to our hearts
share your delicious take!What are the five ingredients in corn casserole?
The five staples are whole corn, creamed corn, sour cream, melted butter, and Jiffy cornbread mix. Together, they create a creamy, tender base that’s easy, versatile, and loved at holidays.
How to make Paula Deen’s corn casserole?
Mix whole corn, creamed corn, sour cream, melted butter, and Jiffy mix. Bake at 350°F until golden and set. It’s creamy, comforting, and perfect for family dinners.
Is it okay to put raw chicken in a casserole?
It’s safer to use cooked chicken. Raw chicken can release liquid, undercook, or create food safety risks. Pre-cooked chicken ensures tender, flavorful bites and even baking.
What ingredients are in corn casserole?
Most versions use corn, creamed corn, sour cream, butter, and cornbread mix. Variations add eggs, cheese, jalapeños, or herbs, making it customizable and adaptable for any taste.
Conclusion
The Cheesy Street Corn Chicken Casserole takes everything people love about classic corn casserole and elevates it with bold, Mexican-inspired flair. Creamy, cheesy, and full of smoky flavor, it’s a dish that works as a hearty main course while still delivering the comforting feel of a traditional side. Whether you keep it mild or load it with spice, this casserole offers flexibility and crowd-pleasing appeal.
For even more inspiration, explore Food Network’s Paula Deen Corn Casserole Recipe, a classic version that started it all.
Cheesy Street Corn Chicken Casserole is proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With everyday ingredients and a little creativity, you can bring the flavors of street corn and chicken together in one bubbling, irresistible dish.