Name: High Protein Chicken Street Corn Salad: Flavor-Packed & Fun
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken breast (shredded); 2 cups Frozen corn (thawed and dried); 1 cup Greek yogurt (room temperature); 1/2 cup Feta cheese (optional); 2 tablespoons Lime juice (fresh); 1 tablespoon Lime zest (fresh); 1 teaspoon Chili powder (adjust to taste); 1/4 cup Cilantro (optional, finely chopped); 4 large Tortilla wraps; 1 medium Avocado (sliced)

As I chopped fresh cilantro and charred the corn to golden perfection, the kitchen filled with a smoky aroma that transported me straight to a bustling Mexican street market. This Creamy Street-Corn Chicken Salad is a delightful twist on the classic flavors of elote, combining mouthwatering ingredients into a single, protein-packed dish. With 25 grams of protein per serving and under 350 calories, it’s the perfect guilt-free lunch or dinner option that doesn’t skimp on taste. What’s more? It’s incredibly versatile and meal-prep friendly, making it a go-to for busy weekdays or family gatherings. So, are you ready to dive into a flavor-packed adventure that will impress your taste buds and nourish your body?

Why is this salad a game-changer?

Packed with protein: Each serving boasts a whopping 25 grams of protein, making it a powerhouse of nourishment, perfect for muscle recovery after a workout or simply to keep you satiated throughout the day.

Flavor explosion: The combination of charred corn, Greek yogurt, and lime zest brings a burst of fresh, zesty flavors that dance on your palate, reminiscent of vibrant street food.

Versatile and customizable: Whether you’re following a gluten-free diet or just want to switch things up, this salad is easily adaptable—try it with black beans or some diced mango for a unique twist.

Quick and easy: With just one bowl needed, you’ll save on cleanup while preparing a nutritious meal in no time, making it an ideal choice for those busy weekdays.

Great for meal prep: This salad stores beautifully in the fridge for up to four days, allowing you to whip up a large batch on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week—think of it as your healthy go-to!

Pair it with a side of Street Corn Salad for extra flavor, and you’re set for a fantastic meal!

High Protein Chicken Street Corn Salad Ingredients

For the Salad

Chicken breast – A lean protein source; shredded for better sauce adherence—substitute thighs for added richness.
Frozen corn – Adds sweetness and crunch; if fresh corn is in season, use it for superior flavor, ensuring it’s thawed and dried.
Greek yogurt – Serves as a lower-calorie creamy dressing base; for a light option, use 0% fat yogurt and mix in a teaspoon of olive oil.
Feta cheese (optional) – Provides a salty kick; can be replaced with goat cheese or queso fresco for different flavor profiles.
Lime juice and zest – Brightens the overall taste—always opt for fresh limes for the best flavor impact.
Chili powder – Adds warmth; try chipotle or ancho for more complexity—adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.
Cilantro (optional) – Fresh herb flavor; if you’re not a cilantro fan, parsley or mint can be substituted.

For Serving

Tortilla wraps – Perfect for making a quick meal—to turn your salad into a satisfying wrap, add scrambled eggs for breakfast!
Avocado – Adds a creamy texture and richness; consider topping your salad for a delicious finish.

With these ingredients, you’re all set to craft the delightful High Protein Chicken Street Corn Salad that will leave you satisfied and recharged!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for High Protein Chicken Street Corn Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by thawing your frozen corn and patting it dry to remove excess moisture, ensuring a nice char later. If you haven’t already cooked your chicken breast, poach or grill it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (about 15-20 minutes). Once done, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing.

Step 2: Sear the Corn
Heat a large skillet over high heat and add the dried corn. Sauté the corn for about 5–7 minutes until it becomes slightly blistered and charred, stirring occasionally. You’re looking for that beautiful golden-brown color that enhances the flavor of this High Protein Chicken Street Corn Salad, bringing a smoky sweetness reminiscent of street corn.

Step 3: Mix Sauce
While the corn is searing, grab a large mixing bowl and combine room-temperature Greek yogurt, the juice and zest of one lime, and your preferred chili powder. Whisk together until smooth for a creamy sauce that coats the salad deliciously. The zest adds brightness; the chili powder brings warmth, so adjust according to your taste preferences.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Once your corn has charred nicely, let it cool for a minute, then add it to the mixing bowl along with the shredded chicken and, if desired, the crumbled feta cheese. If you’re using cilantro, finely chop it and toss that in as well. Gently fold all ingredients together until everything is well-coated with the creamy dressing.

Step 5: Let Rest
Allow the High Protein Chicken Street Corn Salad to sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors meld beautifully, allowing the smoky and tangy notes to intensify. Use this time to prepare any additional toppings such as fresh avocado if you desire.

Step 6: Serve
Once the salad has rested, you can serve it immediately as is or chill it in the refrigerator for later. It’s great on its own, or consider wrapping it in tortillas for a tasty, portable meal. Enjoy every bite as the delightful flavors transport you to a vibrant street market!

Expert Tips for High Protein Chicken Street Corn Salad

Yogurt Temperature: Ensure your Greek yogurt is at room temperature to avoid any separation when mixing, giving your salad a smooth consistency.
Freshness Counts: Before using chili powder, check its freshness; stale spices can dull the flavor of your tasty High Protein Chicken Street Corn Salad.
Resting Time: Allow the salad to rest for at least 5 minutes. This simple step enhances flavor melding, making every bite even more delicious.
Precise Cooking: When searing the corn, keep a close eye on it! Burnt corn can ruin the salad’s balance; aim for a beautiful golden char without blackening.
Storage Wisdom: For leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container and consume within 4 days. This keeps your meal fresh while mitigating any odor from the fridge.

High Protein Chicken Street Corn Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this salad your own with these delightful twists and turns!

Buffalo Twist: Replace chili powder with hot sauce and add diced celery for a spicy, Buffalo-style version. The zing will elevate the salad to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Tropical Update: Stir in diced mango and swap cilantro for mint for a refreshing, tropical taste. This fruitiness will harmoniously blend with the savory elements and take you to paradise with each bite.
Italian Flair: Incorporate pesto and replace feta with Parmesan for a rich Italian twist; feel free to add nuts for a delightful crunch. The interplay of flavors will make your taste buds sing with joy!
Fiesta Variation: Use black beans and diced peppers for a colorful, festive version; top with avocado for even more creaminess. This variation adds heartiness and a fiesta feel to your meal!
Breakfast Bowl: Enhance your protein intake by packing it into a wrap with scrambled eggs for a nutrient-packed breakfast. It’s a fabulous way to start your day with a hearty kick!
Low-Carb Option: Skip the corn and substitute with sautéed zucchini for a tasty, lower-carb alternative. This twist still provides satisfying flavors without the carbs, perfect for dietary preferences!
Crispy Addition: Top the salad with crispy tortilla strips or crushed corn chips for an exciting crunch. This little texture boost can make a big difference in your eating experience.

Consider pairing this salad with a side of Street Corn Salad for an extra burst of flavor and color on your table! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

What to Serve with Creamy Street-Corn Chicken Salad

The perfect blend of smoky and tangy flavors invites you to create a delightful meal experience that satisfies all your cravings.

Crispy Tortilla Chips: Their crunch serves as a delightful contrast to the creamy salad, making every bite a fun adventure. Enjoy them alongside your salad for a satisfying crunch that brings a festive flair to your meal.
Fresh Avocado Slices: Creamy and rich, they provide a luxurious complement, enhancing the salad’s texture and adding healthy fats. Drape avocado on top for a splash of color and creamy goodness.
Grilled Vegetable Skewers: A medley of charred veggies paired with your salad celebrates summer flavors, boosting freshness and nutrition. Consider vibrant bell peppers, zucchini, and onions for a colorful side.
Lemon Garlic Quinoa: This fluffy grain adds a nutty essence and complements the salad’s vibrant flavors beautifully. The light and healthy grain is a great way to enhance the protein content in your meal.
Spicy Black Bean Soup: A warm, hearty soup pairs perfectly, providing a comforting warmth that highlights the salad’s crispness. It also complements the meal with healthy fiber and protein.
Margaritas or Sparkling Water: A refreshing cocktail or fizzy beverage rounds out the meal, enhancing the festive atmosphere. Opt for a classic lime margarita for a tangy contrast or a flavored sparkling water to cleanse the palate beautifully.
Pineapple Sorbet: For dessert, this light and refreshing treat is the perfect choice to cleanse the palate after enjoying the bold flavors of the salad. Its sweetness elegantly counterbalances the savory notes of your dish.

Embrace these pairings to elevate your Creamy Street-Corn Chicken Salad into a memorable feast!

How to Store and Freeze High Protein Chicken Street Corn Salad

Fridge: Store your Creamy Street-Corn Chicken Salad in an airtight container, where it will remain fresh for up to 4 days. This not only keeps it tasty but also helps the flavors develop further.
Freezer: While not ideal for freezing due to the texture of the ingredients, you can freeze the shredded chicken and charred corn separately for up to 3 months. Thaw and mix them fresh to maintain the salad’s quality.
Reheating: If you decide to reheat the chicken or corn, do so gently in a microwave or skillet until warmed through, ensuring not to overcook, which can lead to dryness.
Serving Tip: Before serving leftovers, give the salad a good stir to reincorporate any separated dressing and enjoy as is or in wraps for a quick meal!

Make Ahead Options

These High Protein Chicken Street Corn Salad is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking for a time-saving solution! You can prepare the shredded chicken, charred corn, and creamy dressing up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the corn and chicken, then mix the dressing separately, storing each component in airtight containers in the fridge. To maintain quality, keep the salad components separate until you’re ready to enjoy them; this will prevent the salad from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to serve, combine all the prepped ingredients in a bowl, let it rest for a few minutes to enhance flavors, and you’ll have a delicious, fresh meal in no time!

High Protein Chicken Street Corn Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of corn should I use?
Absolutely, for the best flavor, I recommend using fresh corn when it’s in season. However, frozen corn works beautifully too! Just make sure to thaw and dry it thoroughly to achieve that nice char.

How long does the salad last in the fridge?
Your Creamy Street-Corn Chicken Salad will stay fresh for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. This makes it perfect for meal prep and allows the flavors to meld beautifully while it’s stored!

Can I freeze this salad?
Very! Although the full salad isn’t ideally suited for freezing due to the yogurt dressing, you can freeze the shredded chicken and charred corn separately for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw the chicken and corn in the fridge overnight and mix them fresh for a delightful meal.

What should I do if the salad is too dry?
If you find your salad is a bit dry after resting, don’t worry! You can simply add a splash of lime juice or a dollop of Greek yogurt to bring back that creamy texture. Mix well to ensure even distribution!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! This High Protein Chicken Street Corn Salad is gluten-free and can suit many dietary preferences. Just make sure to check the labels of your ingredients, especially if you’re using any store-bought items like tortillas or cheese, to avoid any allergens. If you’re serving this to pets, please remember that ingredients like onions and dairy can be harmful to them, so it’s best to keep them away!

How can I make this salad vegetarian?
If you’re looking to make a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for nutrient-rich black beans or chickpeas. This will provide protein while keeping the salad hearty and satisfying. You could also add diced avocado for creaminess!