Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad Recipe

If you’re ready to add some major flavor and sunshine to your table, you need to try this Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad Recipe! Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Elote (classic Mexican street corn), this dish combines juicy chicken, sweet charred corn, creamy dressing, and lots of zesty, smoky goodness. It’s equal parts lunch, dinner, and party food—with each bite a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, tangy, and fresh. Whether you serve it over greens or scooped up with chips, this salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that never lasts long in my kitchen.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad Recipe has a deliciously specific job to do. They’re simple and easy to find, but each one brings something vibrant—think juiciness, crunch, a pop of color, or a little spicy kick.

• Cooked chicken breast: Use shredded or chopped chicken for loads of lean protein and a satisfying bite—rotisserie chicken makes this super quick!
• Corn kernels: Fresh, canned, or frozen and thawed all work beautifully; char fresh corn on the stovetop or grill for the best smoky-sweet flavor.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy foundation that ties everything together; use light mayo for a healthier twist.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Adds a tangy note and extra creaminess—Greek yogurt makes it lighter but still luscious.
• Chili powder: Brings warmth and essential earthy spice for that can’t-stop-eating flavor.
• Cumin: A touch of this spice deepens the salad’s savory, roasty flavor profile.
• Lime juice: Don’t skip the fresh lime! It brightens and balances the creamy and spicy elements.
• Cotija or feta cheese: Cotija is classic, but feta is a fantastic substitute—crumbled in for plenty of salty tang.
• Fresh cilantro: Adds lively color and unmistakable herby Mexican flair.
• Red onion: Finely diced for a crunchy bite and a pop of purple color.
• Salt and black pepper: Season to taste, and let all the bold flavors shine through.
• Optional garnishes: Sliced jalapeños, creamy avocado, or chopped romaine lettuce make fun and fresh toppings.

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad Recipe

Step 1: Char the Corn

If you’re working with fresh corn, get ready for some magic—char it in a hot skillet or on the grill until it’s golden and blistered in spots. This step takes just a few minutes but gives your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad Recipe authentic street-food flavor! Let it cool a bit before tossing it with the rest of your ingredients.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Dressing

In a big mixing bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt, chili powder, cumin, fresh lime juice, salt, and pepper. This little flavor bomb is the heart of the Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad Recipe and brings everything together in the most irresistible way. Taste and adjust the seasoning before moving on.

Step 3: Combine the Main Ingredients

Add the cooked, shredded or chopped chicken, charred corn kernels, cotija or feta cheese, chopped cilantro, and red onion right into your bowl of dressing. Gently mix until every piece is coated and looks vibrant and delicious—now your kitchen smells like summer!

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Pop the finished salad into the fridge for 15 to 30 minutes. This quick chill lets the flavors blend and gives you an ultra-refreshing Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad Recipe every time. When ready, give it a stir and serve it however you like!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad Recipe

Garnishes

Go wild with garnishes that amplify both flavor and presentation! Top with extra crumbled cotija, a sprinkle of chili powder, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños for heat, or creamy slices of avocado for richness and color. Sometimes I even add a little squeeze of lime juice over the top to make everything pop.

Side Dishes

This Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad Recipe is wonderfully satisfying on its own, but it also plays perfectly with sides. I love pairing it with warm corn tortillas, a side of tortilla chips, or a simple green salad. For a more filling meal, serve it with rice or stuffed in pita pockets—no rules, just deliciousness!

Creative Ways to Present

Have fun with your presentation! Try spooning it into lettuce cups for a fresh, portable bite, or wrap it up in flour tortillas for a crave-worthy lunch. It’s also fantastic as a topping for nachos or stuffed into bell peppers for a colorful party platter. However you dish it up, this salad always brings excitement to the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep or grab-and-go lunches.

Freezing

I don’t recommend freezing this salad—once thawed, the texture of the dressing and veggies just isn’t the same. It’s best enjoyed within a few days of making it fresh.

Reheating

This dish is designed to be served cold or at room temperature. If you do want it warm, gently heat the chicken and corn before mixing in the rest of the ingredients, but skip reheating once the dressing is combined to keep everything creamy and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken saves tons of time and infuses extra flavor. Just shred or chop it before tossing into the Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad Recipe.

Is it okay to use canned corn instead of fresh?

Yes, canned corn works perfectly (just drain well), and you can even give it a quick sauté for extra roasted flavor if you want to mimic that fresh char taste.

How can I make this salad spicier?

To turn up the heat, try adding fresh chopped jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or a little extra chili powder right into the mix.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You sure can! Use your favorite vegan mayo and dairy-free yogurt for the base, and swap in a plant-based cheese or skip the cheese entirely. The Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad Recipe still tastes fantastic.

What’s the best way to meal-prep this dish?

Mix everything together except the cheese, cilantro, and garnishes. Store those on the side and add just before serving for the freshest, brightest flavor and color.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a feel-good salad that’s bursting with flavor and endlessly versatile, this Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad Recipe is about to become your new favorite. I hope you’ll give it a try—your next lunch or dinner will thank you!

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