When the heat of summer lingers and you crave something fresh but satisfying, this Street Corn Chicken Salad steps in like a cool breeze. It’s that kind of meal where each bite delivers a burst of smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors all at once — no heavy fuss, just straightforward deliciousness.
Just last weekend, I found myself craving something bright and lively after a long day. The grill was still warm from dinner, so I threw on some chicken breasts seasoned with smoky spices and grilled corn until it had those perfect charred spots. The smell alone was intoxicating—smoky, slightly sweet, with that hint of spice that wakes up your senses. Mixing it with creamy dressing, fresh cilantro, and a touch of jalapeño added a fresh kick that made the whole salad unforgettable. Sitting down with a bowl of this salad, the cool creaminess against the warm grilled chicken, and the crunch of fresh veggies was exactly the kind of satisfying meal I needed. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a small celebration on a plate.
- Bright and smoky flavors that balance each other perfectly.
- A quick assembly that fits right into busy days.
- Versatile enough for a light lunch or a side dish at dinner.
- Fresh herbs and a hint of spice that keep every bite exciting.
- Great for using up grilled leftovers or making fresh from scratch.
If you’re worried about the spice level, the jalapeño can be adjusted or left out altogether—this recipe flexes easily to your taste. Plus, the creamy dressing ties everything together, making it feel indulgent but still wholesome.
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Street Corn Chicken Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4
Description
A vibrant and flavorful Street Corn Chicken Salad combining juicy grilled chicken, charred corn, creamy dressing, and fresh herbs for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
2 ears of corn, husked
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1 medium tomato, diced
Instructions
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
In a small bowl, combine chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and then evenly coat with the spice mixture.
Grill the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
While the chicken cooks, grill the corn ears, turning occasionally, until charred in spots, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from grill and let cool slightly.
Cut the kernels off the corn cobs and place them in a large mixing bowl.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt.
Add the dressing to the bowl with the corn kernels and stir to combine.
Dice the rested chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and add to the corn mixture.
Add crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, red onion, jalapeño, chopped romaine lettuce, and diced tomato to the bowl.
Gently toss all ingredients together until well combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or lime juice if desired.
Serve the Street Corn Chicken Salad immediately or chill for 30 minutes before serving for a cooler salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
FAQ
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the components in advance and combine them just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
What can I substitute for cotija cheese?
Feta or queso fresco works well if cotija isn’t available.
Is this salad good cold or room temperature?
It’s delicious served chilled straight from the fridge or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
How long will leftovers last?
Stored in an airtight container, this salad keeps well for up to two days in the refrigerator.
Give this Street Corn Chicken Salad a try next time you want a delicious recipe that feels fresh, fast, and full of personality. You might just find it becoming a new favorite go-to meal.