Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad

Tired of the same old lunch? This Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad transforms classic chicken salad into a vibrant, creamy, and zesty explosion of flavor. Get ready to bookmark this recipe, because it’s about to become your new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad

This sensational salad isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience! Here are compelling reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:

• Lightning Fast: This dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or quick meal prep.
• Flavor Fiesta: Experience the creamy, spicy, and tangy notes of traditional Mexican street corn (Esquites) blended into a satisfying chicken salad.
• Meal Prep Dream: Prepare a big batch at the start of the week for effortless lunches that stay fresh and delicious.
• Versatile & Adaptable: Enjoy it in lettuce cups, sandwiches, wraps, or as a dip with tortilla chips.
• Budget-Friendly: Utilize leftover cooked chicken for an economical and resourceful meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This unique twist is sure to impress friends and family at potlucks, picnics, or casual gatherings.
• Fresh & Satisfying: Packed with fresh cilantro and lime, it feels light yet incredibly fulfilling.
• No Cooking Required: If your chicken is already cooked, there’s absolutely no heat needed for this vibrant recipe.

Ingredients Needed for Your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad

Gathering your simple, fresh ingredients is the first step to creating this unforgettable Mexican-inspired chicken salad. Remember, quality makes all the difference here!

• 2 cups (approx. 300g) cooked chicken, shredded or cubed: Use rotisserie chicken for speed, or bake/boil chicken breasts ahead of time.
• 1 cup (approx. 150g) corn kernels: Freshly cut corn offers the best crunch, but canned (drained) or frozen (thawed) work wonderfully. For smoky depth, try roasted corn!
• 1/4 cup (approx. 60g) mayonnaise: Choose your favorite creamy mayo for that essential richness.
• 2 tbsp (approx. 30g) sour cream or Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt adds a tangy, lighter touch, while sour cream provides classic indulgence.
• 1/2 cup (approx. 60g) cotija cheese, crumbled: This salty, crumbly Mexican cheese is key. If unavailable, feta cheese is a good substitute.
• 1/4 cup (approx. 8g) fresh cilantro, chopped: Bright, herbaceous cilantro is non-negotiable for authentic flavor.
• 1/2 tsp chili powder: Adds a gentle warmth and smoky spice. Adjust to your preferred heat level.
• 1 lime, juiced: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the entire dish and balances the richness.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for perfecting the seasoning.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Mexican Street Corn and Chickpea Salad – A vibrant, vegetarian twist on classic street corn, packed with protein and fresh flavors.

Essential Equipment

You won’t need much to whip up this quick and easy Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad!

• Large mixing bowl: Crucial for combining all the ingredients easily without spills.
• Whisk: Perfect for creating a smooth, lump-free dressing.
• Cutting board and sharp knife: For chopping chicken, cilantro, and if using fresh corn, to cut it from the cob.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise ingredient ratios for the best flavor balance.

Recipe Overview

Here’s a snapshot of what to expect for this simple, delicious recipe:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Difficulty: Easy

Step-by-Step Instructions for Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad

Let’s get cooking! Follow these clear steps to create your delicious Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad.

1. Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Dressing

   1. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), fresh lime juice, and chili powder.
   2. Ensure the mixture is smooth and well-combined, creating a beautiful, creamy base.

2. Step 2: Combine the Salad Components

   1. Add the shredded or cubed cooked chicken to the bowl with the dressing.
   2. Next, toss in the corn kernels, fresh chopped cilantro, and half of the crumbled cotija cheese.

3. Step 3: Mix and Season

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   1. Gently toss all the ingredients until everything is evenly coated in the creamy, vibrant dressing.
   2. Season the salad generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember to taste and adjust!

4. Step 4: Garnish and Serve

   1. Before serving, top the chicken salad with the remaining cotija cheese.
   2. For an extra pop of color and flavor, sprinkle a little more chili powder over the top.
   3. Serve chilled over crisp greens, nestled in lettuce wraps, or alongside crunchy tortilla chips.

CHECK OUT: Chicken Taco Rice Skillet Bake – A hearty and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for a family dinner.

Tips for Success

Elevate your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad with these expert tips:

• Roast Your Corn: For a deeper, smoky flavor, briefly roast your corn kernels in a dry skillet or air fryer until lightly charred before adding to the salad. This mimics the grilled flavor of traditional elotes.
• Chill Time: While delicious immediately, allowing the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes lets the flavors meld beautifully.
• Chicken Choice: Use freshly shredded rotisserie chicken for ultimate convenience and tender results.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste before serving and adjust seasoning. You might want more lime, chili powder, or a pinch more salt.

Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to customize this Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad to your liking!

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for extra heat.
• Add Avocado: Fold in diced avocado just before serving for an extra layer of creaminess and healthy fats.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with black beans or roasted chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Cheese Swap: Feta cheese is a great alternative if cotija is hard to find.
• Dairy-Free: Use a high-quality vegan mayonnaise and a dairy-free sour cream or plain unsweetened vegan yogurt.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad can be enjoyed in so many delicious ways!

• Classic Style: Serve it generously scooped over fresh mixed greens for a light and refreshing meal.
• On the Go: Stuff it into whole wheat tortillas or soft pita bread for a satisfying wrap.
• Appetizer Ready: Serve it as a dip with sturdy tortilla chips, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips.
• Tacos or Tostadas: Use it as a vibrant filling for soft tacos or crunchy tostada shells.
• Alongside: Pair with a simple side of black beans or a refreshing fruit salad.
• Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a cold glass of agua fresca (like jamaica or horchata) or sparkling water with lime.

Health Benefits

Beyond its incredible flavor, this Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad offers several nutritional perks:

• Protein-Packed: Chicken provides a lean source of protein essential for muscle repair and satiety.
• Vitamin Rich: Fresh lime and cilantro contribute vitamins C and K, respectively.
• Fiber Boost: Corn offers dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting gut health.
• Balanced Meal: When served with greens, it provides a well-rounded meal with protein, healthy fats, and vegetables.

Storage & Reheating

Proper storage ensures your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad stays delicious and safe to eat.

• Refrigeration: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This salad is not recommended for freezing due to the mayonnaise and dairy, which can separate and change texture upon thawing.
• Best Served Chilled: This salad is best enjoyed cold, straight from the refrigerator. No reheating is necessary!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this fantastic Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad:

• Can I use canned chicken?

  
  

  Yes, absolutely! Just make sure to drain it well and flake it before adding to the salad for the best texture.

• What if I don’t have cotija cheese?

  
  

  Feta cheese is an excellent substitute. It offers a similar salty, crumbly texture that works beautifully in this recipe.

• Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

  
  

  Definitely! Cooking and shredding your chicken in advance makes this an even quicker meal. You can store cooked chicken in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

• How spicy is this salad?

  
  

  With just 1/2 tsp of chili powder, it offers a mild warmth. If you prefer more heat, feel free to increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

  
  

  Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious option for those avoiding gluten.

  
  

More Delicious Dishes

Looking for more inspiration? Explore these other fantastic recipes that will tantalize your taste buds!

• Chicken Taco Rice Skillet Bake – An easy, flavorful skillet meal combining chicken, rice, and taco spices.
• Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole – Layers of chicken, tortillas, and cheese baked into a comforting casserole.
• Chickpea Tomato Corn Salad with Avocado – A refreshing and light salad packed with plant-based goodness.

Conclusion

This Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad is a game-changer for your lunch or dinner rotation. It’s quick, bursting with flavor, and endlessly adaptable. Give it a try and let us know what you think! Follow us on Facebook and Pinterest.

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