Zingy Chili Cornbread

Elevate your cornbread game with this Zingy Chili Cornbread recipe—a bold and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. Featuring the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, this cornbread is packed with shredded sharp cheddar cheese, diced green chilies, jalapeños, and tender corn kernels for a vibrant kick in every bite. Buttermilk and a touch of honey create a moist, tender crumb while preheating a cast iron skillet ensures a golden, crispy crust. Ready in just 40 minutes, this easy-to-make side dish pairs wonderfully with hearty chili, smoky barbecue, or a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness. If you're looking for an irresistible fusion of comfort and zing, this recipe is your go-to!

Nutriscore Rating: 59/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 1.25 cups buttermilk
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
• 1 large egg
• 0.75 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 4 ounces diced green chilies (from a can, drained)
• 1 diced jalapeño (seeded for less heat, optional)
• 0.75 cup corn kernels (frozen, fresh, or canned; if canned, drain thoroughly)
• 1 tablespoon honey

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch cast iron skillet or a greased 9-inch round baking pan. Place the skillet in the oven to preheat (if using).

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Step 3

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, egg, and honey until smooth.

Step 4

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Do not overmix; it’s okay if the batter has a few lumps.

Step 5

Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, diced green chilies, jalapeño, and corn kernels until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6

Carefully remove the preheated skillet (if using) from the oven. Pour the batter into the skillet or prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 7

Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8

Remove from the oven and let the cornbread cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Step 9

Serve warm with a drizzle of honey, a dollop of butter, or alongside your favorite chili or barbecue dish for a zingy, comforting side.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1109.2 grams (1109.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2349

Total Fat 98.10g	126%
Saturated Fat 56.30g	282%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.60g
Cholesterol 436mg	145%
Sodium 4587mg	199%
Total Carbohydrate 314.80g	114%
Dietary Fiber 20.60g	74%
Total Sugars 72.50g
Protein 67.40g	135%

Vitamin D 200IU	998%
Calcium 1037mg	80%
Iron 12mg	68%
Potassium 1432mg	30%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 36.6%

Protein: 11.2%

Carbs: 52.2%