Street corn chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the smoky flavors of grilled corn and succulent chicken. Imagine biting into tender chicken, bursting with vibrant spices and topped with creamy, tangy goodness. tender grilled lemon chicken It’s like summer on a plate, evoking memories of backyard barbecues and sun-soaked picnics.
I remember the first time I made street corn chicken; it was for a family gathering. The aroma wafting through the air had everyone flocking to the kitchen like moths to a flame. Picture this: laughter echoing, kids running around, and my uncle Bob trying to impress everyone with his “secret” grilling technique. Spoiler alert: it involved way too much barbecue sauce. But this street corn chicken? It stole the show! Perfect for casual gatherings or cozy dinners, this dish promises an explosion of flavors that will leave everyone begging for seconds. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This street corn chicken recipe is incredibly easy to make, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- Its bold flavors offer an exciting twist on classic dishes, pleasing even the pickiest eaters.
- The vibrant colors make it visually stunning, ensuring it looks as good as it tastes on your dinner table.
- Versatile enough for grilling or baking, this dish adapts to your cooking preferences easily.
Ingredients for street corn chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best, but feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.
- Fresh Corn: Use sweet corn on the cob for that fresh-from-the-grill taste; frozen can work in a pinch.
- Mayonnaise: This helps create a creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken and corn.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds zesty brightness to counterbalance the richness.
- Chili Powder: A dash of chili powder gives the dish its signature kick without overwhelming the palate.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness that ties all flavors together beautifully.
For the Sauce:
- Queso Fresco: Crumbled queso fresco provides a salty contrast that complements the sweetness of the corn perfectly.
- Garlic Powder: A pinch kicks up the flavor profile without requiring fresh garlic chopping skills.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make street corn chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients to streamline your cooking process. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C).
Step 2: Season Chicken
Rub each chicken breast with olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, and chili powder. This step ensures every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 3: Grill Corn
While you wait for the grill to heat up, peel back the husks from the fresh corn (or unwrap if using frozen). Grill over medium heat until charred and tender—about 10 minutes should do it.
Step 4: Combine Sauce Ingredients
In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic powder, and some crumbled queso fresco until smooth. Adjust seasoning as necessary—taste-testing is encouraged!
Step 5: Cook Chicken
Place seasoned chicken breasts on the grill (or in a baking dish if using an oven). Grill each side for about six minutes or until cooked through and no longer pink inside.
Step 6: Assemble Your Dish
Once everything is cooked, cut off kernels from grilled corn and fold them into your sauce mixture. Serve by drizzling sauce over your grilled chicken and top with extra cilantro and queso fresco.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Now dig in—don’t forget to share… or not!
You Must Know
- This amazing street corn chicken recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the street corn chicken first to lock in that juicy flavor, then grill or bake it while preparing your toppings like cilantro-lime crema or crumbled cheese. This sequence ensures every bite is packed with deliciousness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the corn for grilled zucchini or add some spicy jalapeños for a kick! Experiment with different cheeses, like feta or cotija, and mix in your favorite herbs to create your own signature dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use a microwave if you’re feeling lazy—no judgment here!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh corn whenever possible for that sweet crunch!
- Marinate your chicken for at least an hour to enhance flavors deeply.
- Don’t be afraid to get creative with toppings like avocado or crispy bacon.
Nothing beats the time my friends devoured this street corn chicken at a backyard BBQ—everyone thought I was a culinary genius! Little did they know it was just my secret weapon recipe doing all the work. fiesta-style enchiladas.
FAQs:
What is street corn chicken?
Street corn chicken is a delicious dish that combines the flavors of Mexican street corn with grilled or roasted chicken. This recipe typically features juicy chicken tossed in a creamy sauce made from mayonnaise, lime, and spices, then topped with cotija cheese, cilantro, and chili powder. grilled shrimp skewers The result is a vibrant and flavorful meal perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners.
How do I make street corn chicken healthier?
To make street corn chicken healthier, consider using grilled chicken breast instead of frying it. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise to reduce calories and fat while adding protein. Incorporating more fresh vegetables like bell peppers or avocado can enhance the nutritional value and add texture. Lastly, use less cheese or opt for a low-fat version to cut down on saturated fat.
Can I prepare street corn chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare street corn chicken ahead of time. Cook the chicken and prepare the sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just before serving, mix the components together and add any toppings like cilantro and cheese to maintain freshness. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or gatherings.
What can I serve with street corn chicken?
Street corn chicken rice and beans, or a fresh green salad. Additionally, grilled vegetables or corn on the cob can complement the dish beautifully. For a complete meal, consider serving it with tortillas or over nachos for added crunch and flavor.
Conclusion for street corn chicken:
In summary, street corn chicken offers a delightful blend of flavors that celebrates Mexican cuisine. This dish combines tender chicken with zesty ingredients like lime and cotija cheese for an unforgettable experience. By adjusting ingredients and preparation methods, you can create a healthier version without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for an easy weeknight meal, street corn chicken is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this vibrant dish that brings a taste of the streets right into your home!
Street Corn Chicken
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Street corn chicken is a vibrant and mouthwatering dish that combines succulent grilled chicken with the smoky sweetness of corn, all enveloped in a creamy, zesty sauce. This easy-to-follow recipe captures the essence of summer barbecues, delivering bold flavors and stunning visuals to your dinner table. Perfect for gatherings or weeknight meals, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 ears fresh corn on the cob (or 2 cups frozen corn)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- ½ cup crumbled queso fresco
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients and preheat the grill or oven to medium-high heat (400°F).
- Rub each chicken breast with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and chili powder.
- Grill the corn until charred and tender (about 10 minutes), then cut off the kernels.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic powder, and crumbled queso fresco until smooth.
- Grill the seasoned chicken for about six minutes per side or until fully cooked.
- Combine grilled corn with the sauce mixture and serve over the grilled chicken. Top with extra cilantro and queso fresco.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of street corn chicken (170g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: - For a healthier option, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. - Experiment with toppings like avocado or spicy jalapeños for added flavor. - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
