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Fresh Clean Corn Salad with Grilled Chicken

fresh clean corn salad with grilled chicken - featured image

A bright, fresh corn salad paired with smoky grilled chicken, tossed with herbs and a zesty lime dressing. This protein-packed, easy-to-make recipe is perfect for summer meals and backyard gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 12 oz / 340 g)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3 ears fresh corn, husked and kernels cut off (about 2 cups / 300 g)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (or parsley as alternative)
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken breasts. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes or up to 1 hour in the fridge.
  2. Cut the kernels off the corn cobs using a sharp knife, holding the cob upright on a stable surface.
  3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 375°F / 190°C). Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  4. Grill corn kernels in a grill-safe pan or foil packet for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, for smoky flavor. This step is optional.
  5. Whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until emulsified.
  6. In a large bowl, combine grilled corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño. Pour dressing over and toss gently.
  7. Let grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips or bite-sized pieces.
  8. Arrange sliced chicken over salad or mix together. Serve immediately at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Notes

If fresh corn is not available, frozen corn can be thawed and used. For a dairy-free or vegan option, substitute grilled chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh. Adjust jalapeño quantity to control spiciness. Rest chicken after grilling to keep it juicy. Dressing should be mixed just before serving to keep flavors fresh.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn salad, grilled chicken, summer recipe, protein-packed, fresh salad, easy recipe, healthy meal, backyard BBQ