Chili Corn
Chili Corn is a hearty, smoky dish featuring tender corn kernels cooked with green chili, onion, tomatoes, and crispy bacon. Its bold flavors and comforting texture make it perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners, offering a satisfying blend of spice and sweetness in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut bacon into small pieces and fry until just rendered but not crisp.
- Saute chopped onion in the bacon fat until tender.
- Add the corn, chopped green chili, and chopped tomatoes to the pan.
- Cook until the corn is done, adding liquid if necessary.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using smoked bacon or pancetta instead of regular bacon. You can substitute fresh corn with frozen corn if necessary, just adjust the cooking time. If you want a bit more heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. This dish pairs well with other Mexican recipes, such as Warm Mexican Dip, to create a delicious spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili corn as a side dish alongside grilled meats or tacos for a complete meal. It also works well as a topping for nachos, making it a great addition to your game day spread. Pair it with cornbread or serve it alongside Mexican Hamburgers for a delightful dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Corn contains roughly 423 calories, with 10g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (81% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 602mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using olive oil or vegetable oil for sautéing. You might also add more vegetables or beans for additional protein and flavor.
What can I use instead of green chili?
If you can't find green chili, you can use diced bell peppers for a milder flavor or try canned green chilies for convenience. Adjust the quantity based on your heat preference.
Can I freeze chili corn?
Yes, you can freeze chili corn! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).