Street Corn Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that captures the essence of summer, then you’re in for a treat with this Street Corn Chicken recipe! This delightful meal combines juicy grilled chicken with a sweet and zesty corn topping that will have your taste buds dancing. It’s an easy, flavorful option that works perfectly for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining friends and family. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become a go-to favorite!

Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also simple to prepare. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you’ll whip up something that looks impressive and tastes even better. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weekend barbecue or looking to spice up your dinner routine, Street Corn Chicken is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of lime, cotija cheese, and spices creates a vibrant flavor explosion that everyone will love.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this tasty dish—it’s sure to please picky eaters!
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the corn mixture in advance, saving time when you’re ready to cook.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice, on tortillas, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need to create your own Street Corn Chicken:

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Corn Mixture

• 3 ears fresh corn (kernels removed)
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
• ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey cutlets or grilled tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add some heat: If you like things spicy, toss in some diced jalapeños or use spicy chili powder.
• Go cheesy: Try substituting feta cheese for cotija if you want a different flavor profile.
• Mix in veggies: Add diced bell peppers or red onions to the corn mixture for extra crunch and flavor.

How to Make Street Corn Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This step is crucial because it ensures that your chicken gets those beautiful grill marks while cooking evenly throughout.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Pat dry each chicken breast with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the flavor of the chicken and helps create a nice crust as it grills.

Step 3: Prepare the Corn Mixture

In a bowl, combine the corn kernels with lime juice, cotija cheese, chili powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Mixing these ingredients brings out their flavors and creates a refreshing topping that’s bursting with zest.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Grilling gives your chicken a smoky flavor that’s simply irresistible!

Step 5: Top with Corn Mixture

Once your chicken is done grilling, remove it from the heat and immediately top each piece with the corn mixture. The warmth from the chicken will slightly melt the cheese—yum!

Step 6: Let Rest Before Serving

Allow your Street Corn Chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period helps keep the juices locked in so every bite is succulent and tasty.

Enjoy this vibrant dish any night of the week—your family will thank you!

Pro Tips for Making Street Corn Chicken

Cooking can be a joyful adventure, and with these pro tips, your Street Corn Chicken will be a hit at any gathering!

• Choose fresh corn: Using fresh corn on the cob will give your dish a sweet crunch that frozen corn simply can’t match. Fresh kernels burst with flavor and enhance the overall taste of the chicken.

• Let the chicken rest: Allowing the grilled chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking helps retain its juices, making each bite tender and succulent. This step is key for ensuring your chicken remains juicy and flavorful.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences! Adding smoked paprika or cumin can introduce different flavor profiles that complement the dish beautifully.

• Grill over medium-high heat: Cooking on medium-high heat ensures you get a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside moist. This perfect balance is crucial for delicious grilled chicken.

• Top it off right away: Adding the corn mixture immediately after grilling allows the heat from the chicken to slightly melt the cotija cheese, creating a delightful creamy texture that enhances every bite.

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken

Presenting your Street Corn Chicken in an appealing way can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some creative ideas on how to serve this vibrant dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color, enhancing both the visual appeal and flavor.

• Lime wedges: Offering lime wedges on the side allows guests to add an extra zing of citrus if they desire, amplifying that refreshing taste.

Side Dishes

• Mexican-style rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the flavors of street corn chicken beautifully. It acts as a great base while absorbing all those delicious tastes.

• Black bean salad: A colorful mix of black beans, diced tomatoes, red onion, and avocado provides a hearty side that’s packed with protein and fiber. It’s refreshing and pairs excellently with grilled dishes.

• Grilled vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus drizzled with olive oil and grilled until tender add a healthy touch to your meal while bringing out natural sweetness through caramelization.

• Corn tortillas: Warm corn tortillas served alongside make for a fun interactive meal. Guests can create their own bites by wrapping up pieces of chicken and corn mixture for an easy-to-eat treat.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’ll create an unforgettable dining experience around your delicious Street Corn Chicken! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

Street Corn Chicken is a fantastic recipe for meal prep! It holds up well in the refrigerator, making it perfect for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place the chicken and corn mixture in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Wrap each piece of chicken individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best flavor, consume within 1 month.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat on the grill or stovetop over medium heat.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Street Corn Chicken!

Can I use frozen corn for Street Corn Chicken?

Absolutely! Frozen corn works just as well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before mixing with other ingredients.

How can I make Street Corn Chicken spicier?

To add more heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or using a spicy chili powder. You can also top the dish with hot sauce after grilling!

What should I serve with Street Corn Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, grilled vegetables, or rice. You can also serve it with tortilla chips for a fun twist!

Can I prepare Street Corn Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the corn mixture a day ahead. Just grill before serving for fresh flavors.

Is Street Corn Chicken suitable for special diets?

Yes! This recipe is free from pork, alcohol, and animal-derived gelatin, making it a great option for various dietary preferences.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this vibrant and delicious Street Corn Chicken! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings summer flavors right to your table. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!