Name: Creamy Mexican Corn Chowder Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 5 tbsp butter; 1 ½ cups yellow onion; 1 cup red bell pepper; 1 ½ tbsp garlic; 5 tbsp all-purpose flour; 3 cups whole milk; 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 15 oz fire roasted diced tomatoes; 14 oz frozen petite corn; 7 oz mild green chilies; 1 ½ tsp ground cumin; 1 ½ tsp ancho chili powder; salt and freshly ground black pepper; 15 oz. black beans; 2 ½ cups Rotisserie Chicken; 1 ½ cups cheddar; ⅓ cup cilantro; 1 avocado

This creamy Mexican corn chowder is the perfect comfort food, combining the vibrant flavors of corn, green chilies, and spices with tender pieces of chicken and creamy cheddar cheese. It's a hearty and delicious dish that is sure to warm you up.

Photos of Creamy Mexican Corn Chowder Recipe

If you're heading to the supermarket, keep an eye out for fire roasted diced tomatoes, mild green chilies, and ancho chili powder, which may not be staples in every household. These ingredients contribute to the unique and robust flavors of the chowder.

Ingredients for Creamy Mexican Corn Chowder Recipe

Butter: Adds richness and a smooth texture to the chowder.

Yellow onion: Provides a sweet and savory base flavor.

Red bell pepper: Adds a touch of sweetness and color.

Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic qualities.

All-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the chowder.

Whole milk: Contributes to the creamy consistency.

Low-sodium chicken broth: Provides a savory foundation without too much salt.

Fire roasted diced tomatoes: Adds a smoky and slightly tangy flavor.

Frozen petite corn: Brings sweetness and texture to the chowder.

Mild green chilies: Adds a subtle heat and distinct flavor.

Ground cumin: Contributes a warm, earthy aroma.

Ancho chili powder: Provides a deep, rich spice.

Salt: Enhances and balances the flavors.

Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth.

Black beans: Adds protein and texture.

Rotisserie chicken: Provides tender, flavorful meat.

Cheddar: Melts into the chowder for a creamy finish.

Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note.

Avocado: Provides a creamy, rich garnish.

One reader, Gaylene Conaway says:

This creamy Mexican corn chowder is a delightful blend of flavors! The fire-roasted tomatoes and green chilies add a perfect kick, while the rotisserie chicken and cheddar make it wonderfully hearty. It's a comforting, delicious meal that's easy to make and sure to impress. Highly recommend!

Gaylene Conaway

Essential Techniques for Making Creamy Mexican Corn Chowder

How to melt butter: Place butter in a large pot over medium heat and allow it to melt completely before adding other ingredients.

How to saute onions and bell pepper: Add chopped onions and bell pepper to the melted butter and cook until they are softened, stirring occasionally.

How to saute garlic: Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

How to make a roux: Add flour to the pot with the sauteed vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to combine the flour with the butter and vegetables.

How to whisk in liquids: While whisking, pour in the milk and chicken broth gradually to ensure a smooth mixture without lumps.

How to bring to a light boil: Increase the heat to medium-high and stir frequently until the mixture reaches a light boil.

How to warm through black beans: Add black beans to the pot and stir until they are heated through.

How to incorporate chicken, cheese, and cilantro: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the rotisserie chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped cilantro until well combined.

How to serve with avocado: Slice the avocado and use it as a garnish when serving the chowder warm.

How To Make Creamy Mexican Corn Chowder

Have a nice Mexican twist with this corn chowder recipe. All you need for it is a handful of vegetables and some chili for a warm, flavorful dish.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

5tbspbutterdiced into 1 piece
1 ½ cupsyellow onionchopped
1cupred bell pepperchopped
1 ½ tbspgarlicminced
5tbspall-purpose flour
3cupswhole milk
3cupslow-sodium chicken broth
15ozfire roasted diced tomatoes
14ozfrozen petite corn
7ozmild green chilies
1 ½ tspground cumin
1 ½ tspancho chili powder
salt and freshly ground black pepper
15oz.black beansdrained and rinsed
2 ½ cupsrotisserie chickencooked shredded
1 ½ cupscheddar
⅓ cupcilantrochopped
1avocadodiced

Instructions

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and bell pepper and saute until softened.
Add garlic, saute 1 minute longer. Add in flour and saute 1 minute more.
While whisking pour in the milk and chicken broth. Stir in tomatoes, corn, green chilies, cumin, chili powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Bring mixture to a light boil stirring frequently. Stir in black beans and warm through.
Remove from heat. Stir in chicken, cheese and cilantro. Serve warm with avocado.

Nutrition

Calories: 800.36kcal
Fat: 36.27g
Saturated Fat: 16.13g
Trans Fat: 0.70g
Monounsaturated Fat: 12.39g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.17g
Carbohydrates: 84.29g
Fiber: 18.73g
Sugar: 18.14g
Protein: 41.65g
Cholesterol: 95.08mg
Sodium: 1570.21mg
Calcium: 457.55mg
Potassium: 2241.41mg
Iron: 6.92mg
Vitamin A: 356.39µg
Vitamin C: 136.21mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Your Creamy Mexican Corn Chowder

To achieve a perfectly creamy texture in your corn chowder, make sure to whisk the flour thoroughly into the melted butter before adding the milk and chicken broth. This step, known as making a roux, helps to evenly distribute the flour and prevents lumps from forming, ensuring a smooth and velvety base for your chowder.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Creamy Corn Chowder Recipe

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop onions, bell peppers, and garlic in advance to save time during cooking.

Use rotisserie chicken: Opt for pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to skip the step of cooking and shredding chicken.

Frozen corn: Using frozen petite corn eliminates the need to shuck and cut fresh corn.

Pre-measure spices: Measure out cumin and ancho chili powder before starting to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot cooking: Utilize a large pot for the entire recipe to reduce the number of dishes to clean.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Mexican Corn Chowder Recipe

butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a similar fat content and richness, making it a good alternative for sautéing vegetables.
yellow onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, slightly sweeter flavor that can complement the other ingredients in the chowder.
red bell pepper - Substitute with poblano pepper: Poblano peppers add a mild heat and a deeper flavor, enhancing the Mexican profile of the dish.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor, though it is less pungent and more convenient if fresh garlic is unavailable.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can thicken the chowder similarly to flour, and it is gluten-free.
whole milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds a creamy texture and a slight sweetness, which pairs well with the other flavors in the chowder.
low-sodium chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth provides a similar savory base while keeping the dish vegetarian.
fire roasted diced tomatoes - Substitute with regular diced tomatoes: Regular diced tomatoes can be used if fire-roasted are unavailable, though they lack the smoky flavor.
frozen petite corn - Substitute with canned corn: Canned corn can be used in place of frozen corn, though it may be slightly softer in texture.
mild green chilies - Substitute with jalapeños: Jalapeños add a bit more heat and a similar flavor profile, enhancing the spiciness of the chowder.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander offers a different but complementary flavor, adding a citrusy note to the dish.
ancho chili powder - Substitute with chipotle chili powder: Chipotle chili powder provides a smoky, spicy flavor that can enhance the depth of the chowder.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar salty flavor along with a bit of umami, enhancing the overall taste.
freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile, which can be interesting in the chowder.
black beans - Substitute with pinto beans: Pinto beans have a similar texture and flavor, making them a good alternative in the chowder.
rotisserie chicken - Substitute with shredded turkey: Shredded turkey provides a similar texture and flavor, making it a suitable replacement for chicken.
cheddar - Substitute with Monterey Jack: Monterey Jack melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients in the chowder.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley offers a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that can replace cilantro if it is not available or if someone dislikes cilantro.
avocado - Substitute with sour cream: Sour cream provides a creamy texture and a tangy flavor that can complement the chowder similarly to avocado.

How to Beautifully Present Your Creamy Mexican Corn Chowder

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the creamy Mexican corn chowder in elegant, shallow bowls to highlight its rich texture and vibrant colors. Use a ladle to ensure each portion has a balanced mix of corn, black beans, chicken, and vegetables.
Use decoration: Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro and a few thin slices of avocado. This adds a pop of color and a fresh aroma that complements the chowder.
Add texture: Top the chowder with a small handful of crispy tortilla strips or a few crushed tortilla chips. This adds a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy soup.
Drizzle with sauce: Finish with a light drizzle of Mexican crema or a dollop of sour cream in the center of the bowl. This adds a creamy richness and a touch of elegance.
Use high-quality serveware: Serve the chowder in fine porcelain bowls with a subtle design. Pair with polished silverware and a crisp white napkin to elevate the dining experience.
Highlight ingredients: Place a small, decorative plate beside the main bowl with a few key ingredients used in the chowder, such as a slice of red bell pepper, a sprig of cilantro, and a wedge of lime. This visually connects the dish to its fresh components.
Create a balanced color palette: Ensure the presentation showcases a harmonious blend of colors. The golden hue of the corn and cheddar, the red of the bell pepper, the green of the cilantro and avocado, and the dark contrast of the black beans should all be visible.
Serve with a side: Accompany the chowder with a small side of warm, freshly baked cornbread or crusty bread. This not only complements the flavors but also adds an additional element to the plate.
Use fresh herbs: Add a final touch of freshly ground black pepper and a few leaves of fresh oregano or parsley to enhance the aroma and visual appeal.
Maintain cleanliness: Ensure the rim of the bowl is spotless, with no drips or smudges. This attention to detail reflects the precision and care taken in preparing the dish.

Essential Tools for Making the Best Creamy Mexican Corn Chowder

Large pot: Used for melting butter, sautéing vegetables, and cooking the chowder.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the ingredients while sautéing and mixing the chowder.
Whisk: Essential for whisking in the milk and chicken broth to ensure a smooth consistency.
Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the milk, chicken broth, and other ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Used for measuring the butter, flour, cumin, and chili powder.
Chef's knife: Important for chopping the onions, bell pepper, and cilantro.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and herbs.
Can opener: Needed to open cans of fire-roasted diced tomatoes, green chilies, and black beans.
Colander: Useful for draining and rinsing the black beans before adding them to the chowder.
Grater: Required for grating the cheddar cheese if it is not pre-shredded.
Ladle: Handy for serving the chowder into bowls.
Serving bowls: Used to serve the chowder.
Spoon: For adding avocado slices to the served chowder.

How To Properly Store and Freeze Creamy Mexican Corn Chowder

Let the chowder cool completely before storing or freezing.
Transfer the cooled chowder to an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag.
If using a container, make sure to leave about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Store the chowder in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, place the container or bag in the freezer and store for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw the frozen chowder overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat the thawed chowder in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
If the chowder appears too thick after reheating, add a little chicken broth or milk to achieve the desired consistency.
Adjust the seasonings if needed, as flavors may change slightly after freezing and reheating.
Serve the reheated chowder hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, avocado, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese, if desired.

How To Reheat Leftover Creamy Mexican Corn Chowder

Stovetop method: Transfer the leftover chowder to a saucepan and reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. If the chowder seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to thin it out. Heat until the chowder is warmed through and steaming, but not boiling.
Microwave method: Place the desired amount of leftover chowder in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chowder is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the dairy to separate.
Slow cooker method: If you have a large batch of leftover chowder, you can reheat it in a slow cooker. Transfer the chowder to the slow cooker and set it on low heat. Cover and let the chowder warm through for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. This method is ideal for keeping the chowder warm for an extended period, such as during a party or potluck.
Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover chowder to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the chowder is warmed through. Stir the chowder halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to taste the chowder and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving. You may find that the flavors have mellowed or intensified during storage, so a little extra salt, pepper, or fresh cilantro can help revive the taste. Additionally, garnishing the reheated chowder with fresh avocado slices, a sprinkle of cheddar cheese, or a dollop of sour cream can add a fresh twist to the leftover dish.

Interesting Fact About Creamy Mexican Corn Chowder

A fun fact about this creamy Mexican corn chowder recipe is that it combines the sweetness of corn with the smoky flavor of fire roasted diced tomatoes and ancho chili powder, creating a rich and flavorful dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

Is Making Creamy Mexican Corn Chowder at Home Cost-Effective?

This creamy Mexican corn chowder recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Utilizing rotisserie chicken and frozen petite corn keeps costs down while still providing a hearty meal. The use of fire roasted diced tomatoes and mild green chilies adds depth without breaking the bank. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25 USD.

Is This Creamy Corn Chowder Healthy or Unhealthy?

This creamy Mexican corn chowder recipe, while undeniably delicious, does have some aspects that could be considered less than healthy. The use of butter, whole milk, and cheddar cheese contributes to a high saturated fat content, which, if consumed in excess, may lead to heart health concerns. Additionally, the sodium content from the chicken broth, canned tomatoes, and added salt could be a bit high for those watching their salt intake.

However, the recipe also includes several nutritious ingredients:

The vegetables (onion, bell pepper, garlic, tomatoes, corn, and green chilies) provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber
Black beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber
Rotisserie chicken is a lean protein source
Avocado offers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats

To make this recipe healthier, you could try the following modifications:

Replace some or all of the butter with a heart-healthy oil like olive oil
Use low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative instead of whole milk
Opt for reduced-fat cheddar cheese or use a smaller amount of full-fat cheese
Choose low-sodium chicken broth and canned tomatoes, and reduce the added salt
Increase the amount of vegetables for added fiber and nutrients
Serve with a side salad or extra veggies to balance out the meal

By making these adjustments, you can still enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this creamy Mexican corn chowder while supporting your overall health and well-being.

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Creamy Mexican Corn Chowder

This creamy Mexican corn chowder recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of fire-roasted tomatoes, mild green chilies, and ancho chili powder provides a rich, smoky depth, while the corn and bell peppers add a touch of sweetness. The rotisserie chicken and black beans make it hearty and satisfying. The addition of cheddar cheese and cilantro enhances the creaminess and freshness. Topping it with avocado adds a creamy, buttery finish. Overall, it's a well-balanced, comforting dish perfect for any occasion.

Enhance Your Creamy Mexican Corn Chowder Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mexican Street Corn Salad: Imagine a vibrant salad that bursts with the flavors of grilled corn, cotija cheese, and a zesty lime dressing. This side dish will add a refreshing crunch and a tangy twist to your creamy Mexican corn chowder experience.

Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread: Picture a warm, golden cornbread infused with the spicy kick of jalapeños and the rich, melty goodness of cheddar cheese. This savory delight will perfectly complement the creamy texture of your chowder.

Avocado Lime Rice: Envision a fluffy bed of rice infused with the creamy richness of avocado and the zesty brightness of lime. This side dish will add a delightful contrast to the hearty flavors of your corn chowder.

Spicy Mango Salsa: Think of a colorful salsa that combines the sweetness of mango with the heat of chili peppers. This vibrant side dish will bring a burst of tropical flavor and a hint of spice to your Mexican corn chowder meal.

Churros with Chocolate Sauce: Imagine ending your meal with crispy, golden churros dusted with cinnamon sugar and served with a rich, velvety chocolate sauce. This indulgent dessert will provide a sweet and satisfying finish to your creamy corn chowder feast.

Delicious Alternatives to Creamy Mexican Corn Chowder

Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup: Dive into a bowl of spicy chicken tortilla soup that brings together the zesty flavors of chicken, tomatoes, and corn. Topped with crispy tortilla strips and a squeeze of lime, this soup is a fiesta in a bowl.

Southwestern Stuffed Peppers: Experience the vibrant taste of southwestern stuffed peppers. These colorful bell peppers are filled with a savory mix of black beans, corn, ground beef, and cheese, all seasoned with a blend of spices.

Mexican Street Corn Salad: Enjoy the flavors of Mexican street corn salad, a delightful mix of grilled corn, cotija cheese, cilantro, and a tangy lime dressing. This salad is a perfect side dish for any Mexican-inspired meal.

Chicken Enchilada Casserole: Savor the comforting layers of chicken enchilada casserole. This dish features shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, corn tortillas, and cheese, all baked to perfection for a hearty meal.

Black Bean and Sweet Potato Chili: Warm up with a bowl of black bean and sweet potato chili. This vegetarian chili combines black beans, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, and a medley of spices for a rich and satisfying dish.

Ideal Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with This Creamy Corn Chowder

Appetizers:

Stuffed Jalapeños: Kick off your meal with these spicy Stuffed Jalapeños. Fresh jalapeños are halved and filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, cheddar, and bacon bits. They are then baked until golden and bubbly. The combination of the spicy pepper and the rich, cheesy filling is a perfect way to awaken your taste buds. Garnish with a sprinkle of cilantro for a fresh finish.

Mexican Street Corn Dip: Bring the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn to your table with this irresistible Mexican Street Corn Dip. Sweet corn kernels are mixed with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime juice, and a dash of chili powder. Serve it warm with tortilla chips for a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy appetizer that will have everyone coming back for more. Top with a sprinkle of cilantro and a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.

Desserts:

Churro Cheesecake Bars: Churro Cheesecake Bars combine the delightful crunch of churros with the creamy richness of cheesecake. A cinnamon-sugar crust encases a smooth cheesecake filling, creating a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. Serve these bars chilled for a refreshing contrast to the warm, spicy notes of the churro crust. Top with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of indulgence.

Mexican Chocolate Lava Cake: Mexican Chocolate Lava Cake offers a decadent twist on the classic lava cake. Infused with cinnamon and a hint of cayenne pepper, this dessert delivers a subtle kick that complements the rich, molten chocolate center. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the spiciness and enhance the gooey, chocolatey goodness. Garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries for a visually stunning presentation.

Why trust this Creamy Mexican Corn Chowder Recipe:

This creamy Mexican corn chowder recipe is a must-try for its rich and comforting flavors. The combination of fire roasted diced tomatoes, mild green chilies, and ancho chili powder creates a delightful depth of taste. The addition of rotisserie chicken and cheddar ensures a hearty and satisfying meal. With easy-to-follow instructions and readily available ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Trust this recipe to bring a touch of Mexican cuisine to your table, making every spoonful a delightful experience.

Share your thoughts on this delicious Creamy Mexican Corn Chowder recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make it even better!

FAQ:

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen corn?

Absolutely! Fresh corn will work just fine. Just make sure to cook it a bit longer until it's tender.

Can I make this chowder vegetarian?

Yes, you can! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I freeze this chowder?

Yes, you can freeze it. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What can I use instead of rotisserie chicken?

You can use any cooked chicken you have on hand, or even cook some chicken breasts or thighs specifically for this recipe. Shredded or diced works best.