Description
How to make high protein chicken street corn salad with tender grilled chicken, charred corn, and creamy cotija that satisfies your summer cravings perfectly.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein Base
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Corn Components
- 4 ears fresh corn, husked
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Mexican crema or sour cream
Flavor Builders
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 limes, juiced and zested
- 1 jalapeño, finely diced
Finishing Touches
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Mix chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub all over chicken breasts and let sit 10 minutes while you prep the corn.
- Char Corn: Heat butter in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add corn kernels and cook 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and slightly charred in spots.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in same skillet. Cook seasoned chicken 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear.
- Rest and Dice: Let chicken rest 5 minutes, then dice into bite-sized pieces. This resting step keeps all those delicious juices from running out when you cut it.
- Make Dressing: Whisk together mayonnaise, Mexican crema, lime juice, lime zest, and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Everything: In large bowl, toss diced chicken, charred corn, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Add dressing and mix gently until everything is coated.
- Finish and Serve: Top with crumbled cotija cheese and serve immediately, or chill for 30 minutes to let flavors meld together beautifully.
Notes
- Don’t overcook the chicken or it becomes dry and tough – use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for Mexican crema to reduce calories while keeping creaminess.
- Char the corn well for authentic street food flavor – don’t rush this step.
- Add cotija cheese just before serving to maintain its crumbly texture.
- Soak diced red onion in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the sharp bite.
Allergy Information: Dairy, Eggs
Nutrition
- Calories: 285 calories
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 28g