The Ultimate Mexican Street Corn Chicken Recipe You’ll Crave

Sinking your teeth into Mexican street corn chicken promises a delightful culinary adventure that blends vibrant street food inspiration with classic grilled protein.

Kernels of sweet corn and zesty spices dance across tender meat, creating an irresistible fusion.

Mexican cuisine often celebrates bold flavors, and this recipe captures that spirited essence perfectly.

Creamy, tangy elements mingle with smoky undertones, promising a meal that goes beyond ordinary dinner fare.

Charred edges and rich seasonings bring an authentic street-style experience directly to your plate.

Each bite tells a story of tradition and innovation, connecting you to the bustling markets of mexico.

Come savor this delicious journey that will make your taste buds celebrate!

Flavor Spins for Mexican Street Corn Chicken

• Vegetarian Corn Delight: Replace chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu, marinated in the same spices for a plant-based protein option that maintains the vibrant Mexican street corn flavors.
• Low-Carb Zesty Alternative: Swap corn with cauliflower kernels and use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise to create a lighter, keto-friendly version that keeps the authentic street corn essence.
• Dairy-Free Mexican Feast: Use cashew cream instead of cotija cheese and coconut yogurt in place of sour cream, ensuring those with dairy restrictions can still enjoy the robust, zesty chicken recipe.
• Spicy Heat Seeker's Version: Add diced jalapeños to the corn sauce and sprinkle extra chili powder for those who crave an intense, fiery kick to their Mexican street corn chicken.

FAQs

• Is this dish spicy?

The spice level depends on the chili powder you use. Choose mild chili powder for less heat or add extra if you prefer more kick.

• Can I use different cheese instead of cotija?

Yes, you can substitute cotija with feta or queso fresco. These cheeses have similar tangy flavors that work well in the street corn sauce.

• What if I don't have a grill?

No problem! You can cook the chicken in a skillet on the stovetop or bake it in the oven at 400F (204C) for about 20-25 minutes until it reaches 165F internal temperature.

• How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, choose a lighter mayonnaise, and opt for grilled or baked chicken to reduce calories while maintaining great flavor.

Mexican Street Corn Chicken with Big Grilled Flavor

• Dive into a mouthwatering fusion of grilled chicken and zesty Mexican street corn sauce that brings explosive taste sensations to your plate.
• Easily adapt the recipe by swapping proteins, adjusting spice levels, or experimenting with different cheese options to match your personal taste preferences.
• Create a versatile dish that works wonderfully for family dinners, casual gatherings, or weekend barbecues, guaranteeing smiles and satisfied hunger around the table.

Ingredients in Mexican Street Corn Chicken

• Chicken Breasts: Tender and lean protein that serves as the base for this flavorful Mexican-inspired dish.

• Cumin, Paprika, Chili Powder, Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper: A vibrant spice mix that adds depth and authentic Mexican flavor to the chicken.

• Corn Kernels: Sweet and juicy corn that brings a classic Mexican street food element to the dish.
• Mayonnaise, Sour Cream: Creamy base ingredients that create a rich and tangy sauce.
• Cotija Cheese: Traditional Mexican cheese that adds a salty and crumbly texture to the sauce.

• Lime Juice: Zesty citrus that adds a fresh and tangy kick to both the chicken and sauce.
• Cilantro: Aromatic herb that provides a fresh, herbal note to the final dish.

• Olive Oil: Helps to prevent sticking and promotes even cooking of the chicken.

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Chicken

Step 1: Seasoning and Grilling Chicken

Drizzle chicken breasts with olive oil and sprinkle them with a zesty blend of spices including cumin, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Heat up your grill or skillet to medium heat and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Once perfectly cooked, pull the chicken off the heat and give it a bright squeeze of fresh lime juice for an extra pop of flavor.

Step 2: Creating Creamy Street Corn Topping

• Corn kernels
• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream
• Cotija cheese
• Lime juice
• Chili powder
• Garlic powder

If using fresh corn, quickly sauté it in a pan to enhance its natural sweetness and create a slight charred edge.

Step 3: Building Your Flavor-Packed Dish

Transfer the perfectly grilled chicken to a serving plate and generously ladle the creamy street corn sauce over each piece.

Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top and add an extra lime squeeze for brightness.

Step 4: Serving Up Deliciousness

Plate your Mexican Street Corn Chicken alongside Mexican rice, grilled vegetables, or warm tortillas for a complete meal that’ll transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Mexico.

Tips for Flavor-Packed Street Corn Chicken

• Choose a cast-iron skillet or grill pan for optimal chicken searing and caramelization.
• Lightly toast corn kernels in a dry skillet to enhance natural sweetness and develop deeper flavor profiles.
• Replace cotija with feta or queso fresco if unavailable, maintaining the authentic Mexican street corn essence.
• Adjust chili powder quantity to personalize heat intensity, ensuring the dish matches individual taste preferences.
• Marinate chicken overnight to intensify seasoning and create more tender, flavorful meat before cooking.

Storing Mexican Street Corn Chicken Correctly

• Transfer leftover chicken to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Separate the corn sauce from the chicken to prevent sogginess and maintain the best texture.
• Wrap individual chicken portions in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the corn sauce, as it may separate when thawed.
• Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature until warmed through. Add fresh corn sauce after reheating to maintain its creamy consistency.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 10-15 minutes, then top with freshly made street corn sauce just before serving.

Sides That Complement Street Corn Chicken

• Flavor Symphony Pairings: Elevate Mexican Street Corn Chicken
• Refreshing Cerveza Companion: Pair with a crisp Mexican lager like Modelo Especial or Corona Extra, which cuts through the rich, creamy sauce and complements the zesty chicken spices.
• Citrus-Infused Margarita Match: Mix a classic lime margarita with tequila, triple sec, and fresh lime juice to echo the dish's bright, tangy flavors and provide a cool, refreshing contrast.
• Zesty Side Kick Salad: Create a light jicama and cucumber salad dressed with lime vinaigrette to balance the creamy corn sauce and provide a fresh, crunchy texture alongside the grilled chicken.
• Smooth Avocado Cool Down: Prepare a simple guacamole with ripe avocados, diced onions, cilantro, and lime juice to add a creamy, cooling element that complements the spicy and rich chicken dish.

Mexican Street Corn Chicken Recipe

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4.6 from 21 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Zesty Mexican street corn chicken blends smoky grilled flavors with creamy, tangy goodness. Spicy kernels and juicy chicken create a mouthwatering meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or Parmesan as a substitute)

Seasoning and Spices:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Sauce and Garnish:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare chicken for maximum flavor infusion by generously coating with a vibrant blend of cumin, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper after drizzling with olive oil.
2. Heat grill or skillet to medium temperature and cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, ensuring internal temperature reaches 165F (74C) for safe consumption.
3. Create street corn sauce by mixing corn kernels with creamy mayonnaise, tangy sour cream, crumbly cotija cheese, zesty lime juice, and aromatic spices until thoroughly combined.
4. Optional: Briefly sauté corn kernels to enhance natural sweetness and develop a subtle charred essence.
5. Once chicken is perfectly cooked, remove from heat and delicately splash with fresh lime juice to brighten the flavor profile.
6. Transfer grilled chicken to serving plate and lavishly coat with prepared street corn sauce, ensuring complete coverage.
7. Elevate presentation by sprinkling freshly chopped cilantro and adding an extra lime squeeze for vibrant color and additional citrus notes.
8. Complement the dish with traditional Mexican accompaniments like seasoned rice, grilled vegetables, or warm tortillas for a complete culinary experience.

Notes

• Corn Selection Matters: Use fresh corn kernels for the most vibrant flavor and texture, preferably from grilled or roasted corn for an authentic street-style taste.
• Cheese Flexibility: Swap cotija with feta or queso fresco if unavailable, maintaining the tangy and creamy profile of the sauce.
• Spice Customization: Adjust chili powder and seasonings to control heat level, making the dish suitable for mild or spicy preferences.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Replace mayonnaise and sour cream with Greek yogurt or vegan alternatives to accommodate dietary restrictions while preserving the creamy consistency.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg