High Protein Chicken Street Corn Salad: A Flavorful, Protein-Packed Summer Bowl

This High Protein Chicken Street Corn Salad is a delightful dish that combines hearty chicken and sweet corn with fresh flavors for a satisfying meal. It’s perfect for lunch, a picnic, or as a side at your next BBQ. Not only is it delicious, but it also packs a protein punch, making it a nutritious choice for any day of the week.

Why make this recipe

This salad is not only filling but also brings together a fantastic blend of flavors and textures. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy corn, zesty jalapeños, and creamy cotija cheese makes it a unique and tasty option. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be a great make-ahead dish, saving you time during busy weekdays.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
• 3 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• 1/2 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup light mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to make it

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, corn, finely diced red onion, crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and minced jalapeño.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss until everything is well coated.
4. Taste and adjust with additional salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed.
5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Stir once before serving and garnish with extra cotija cheese and chopped cilantro, if desired.

How to serve it

Serve this salad chilled, making it a refreshing option on warm days. It can be enjoyed on its own, as a side dish, or even in wraps or tacos for added flair.

How to store it

You can store this salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even tastier the next day.

Helpful tips

• For the best flavor, allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for a bit before serving.
• If you prefer a creamier salad, feel free to increase the amount of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise.
• Always taste your dish before serving to adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Optional variations

• Swap out cotija cheese for feta for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Add diced avocado for creaminess and extra nutrients.
• If you like it spicy, keep the seeds in the jalapeño or add some hot sauce to the dressing.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this salad and saves you time on cooking.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish holds up well in the fridge and can be made ahead of time for an easy grab-and-go meal.

Can I freeze this salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as the texture of the vegetables and dressing may change. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.

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