Indulge in the vibrant flavors of summer with these Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls. Perfect for a quick dinner or an outdoor gathering, this recipe pairs grilled chicken with sweet corn and fresh vegetables.
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Why are Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls a Perfect Meal for Summer?
Summer is the ideal time for vibrant, fresh meals that are quick to prepare and full of flavor.
This recipe shines bright during the summer months when you can take advantage of fresh corn, colorful vegetables, and juicy chicken. It is not only easy to put together but also makes use of seasonal ingredients, ensuring you get the freshest flavors possible. Grilling the chicken and corn on warm summer evenings adds a smoky depth to the dish, transforming simple ingredients into something remarkable.
Moreover, these bowls are packed with protein and healthy fats, making them satisfying without weighing you down. They are also perfect for meal prepping, so you can enjoy healthy lunches throughout the week. Give them a try along with a quick chef salad for a balanced meal.
What Ingredients Do You Need for Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls?
Gather the following ingredients for a delightful meal packed with flavor and nutrition.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 2 |
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp |
| Lime juice | 1½ |
| Chili powder | 1 tsp |
| Smoked paprika | ½ tsp |
| Garlic, minced | 1 clove |
| Salt and pepper | to taste |
| Fresh corn (or frozen corn) | 2 ears (or 1½ cups) |
| Cumin | 1 tsp |
| Cayenne pepper | pinch |
| Chopped cilantro | 1 tbsp |
| Cherry tomatoes, halved | 1 cup |
| Red onion, finely diced | ½ |
| Bell pepper, chopped | 1 |
| Romaine lettuce or spinach | 2 cups |
| Plain Greek yogurt | ½ cup |
| Honey (optional) | 1 tsp |
| Crumbled cotija or feta cheese | to taste |
| Lime wedges | for serving |
Several ingredients in this recipe contribute distinct textures and flavors. For instance, corn, whether fresh or frozen, elevates the bowl with a sweet crunch. The Greek yogurt dressing adds creaminess without the excess calories typical of mayonnaise-based sauces. Additionally, lime juice not only brightens the dish but also offers health benefits thanks to its antibacterial properties. The assortment of colorful vegetables, tomatoes, bell peppers, and crispy lettuce, adds essential vitamins and minerals to keep you feeling energized.
How Do You Make Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls?
Creating your Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls is simpler than you think!
Step 1
Begin by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Ensure that the chicken is well-coated and let it marinate for 20-30 minutes to enhance flavor.
Step 2
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side until the internal temperature hits 165°F. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it.
| Cooking Time | Nutrition Values (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Prep: 30 mins, Cook: 20 mins | Calories: 400, Protein: 35g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 20g |
Step 3
Grill the corn, brushed lightly with olive oil, for about 8-10 minutes until the kernels are perfectly charred. Once done, slice the kernels off the cob and toss them in a bowl with cumin, cayenne, cilantro, and a splash of lime juice for that delightful extra flavor.
Next, prepare the dressing by whisking Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, honey, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth in texture.
Now, divide the lettuce or spinach between bowls. Top each bowl with sliced chicken, the grilled corn mix, cherry tomatoes, diced onion, and bell pepper. Finally, drizzle with your yogurt dressing, sprinkle with crumbled cheese and fresh herbs, and serve with lime wedges on the side. Enjoy this delicious creation!
What Makes This Recipe Unique?
This recipe for Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls combines simple ingredients in a way that celebrates fresh flavors.
Flavorful Marinade
The chicken in this dish is marinated with a zesty blend of lime juice, chili powder, and smoked paprika. This not only tenderizes the meat but infuses it with vibrant flavors that pair beautifully with sweet corn.
Grilled Corn with a Twist
Grilling the corn creates smoky, charred flavors that enhance its natural sweetness. Tossing the grilled corn with cumin and cayenne pepper provides a delightful kick, setting this version apart from other salad bowls.
Simple Yet Elegant Dressing
A creamy yogurt dressing made with Greek yogurt, olive oil, and lime juice adds a rich and tangy element, balancing out the flavors. This healthier vegetarian dressing option is a light alternative to heavy sauces that often accompany summer bowls. This recipe offers a fresh take on the classic street corn experience, making it a must-try! Learn more about corn and its health benefits.
What are Some Variations and Serving Suggestions?
There are plenty of ways to customize your Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls to suit your taste preferences.
Diet Swap
To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas, ensuring you still have that protein-packed punch. You can also experiment with different grains like quinoa or brown rice as a base.
Flavor Variation
Mix up the flavor profile by adding different spices like taco seasoning for a kick. You can also introduce additional veggies like avocado or radishes for a fresh twist. For even more zest, consider adding salsa or pico de gallo on top of your bowls. Check out my Mediterranean Chicken Skillet for another flavor-packed option.
Serving Ideas
These bowls are incredibly versatile. Serve them as is for a hearty main dish or transform them into a meal-prep staple by portioning individual servings for an easy grab-and-go lunch. Pair these bowls with refreshing iced tea or a light cucumber salad for a complete meal.
| Suggested Pairings | Tips |
|---|---|
| Iced tea, cucumber salad | Prep ingredients ahead of time to speed up preparation. |
Whether for casual dinners or summer BBQs, these bowls are sure to impress your family and friends with their fresh, bold flavors and colorful presentation!
Final Thoughts
These Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls are a fantastic way to embrace summer flavors while keeping things nutritious. They offer a perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and vibrant vegetables, making them a satisfying meal any day of the week. I encourage you to serve this dish at your next gathering; it brings everyone together and shines on a warm summer day.
Don’t forget to save this recipe to your Pinterest board for quick access, creating a collection of delicious summer meals to inspire you throughout the season! Check out my Pinterest page for more amazing recipes like this.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for this recipe. Just ensure it is fully thawed before marinating and cooking. This will help to achieve optimal flavor and texture.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! These Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls make for excellent meal prep. Just prepare the ingredients in advance and store them in air-tight containers for quick, healthy meals during the week.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
If you want to avoid Greek yogurt, you can use sour cream, cashew cream, or even a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Each option will give a different taste but maintain a creamy texture.
How can I make this recipe more spicy?
To add more spice, consider incorporating jalapeños or hot sauce into the corn mixture. This will complement the current flavors beautifully while lifting the heat level.
Can I use other types of cheese instead of cotija or feta?
Indeed, feel free to use your favorite cheese. Options like shredded mozzarella or cheddar can work, but they will provide a different flavor profile.
Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls
Enjoy a burst of summer flavors with these Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls, featuring marinated grilled chicken, vibrant grilled corn, and fresh veggies in a creamy yogurt dressing.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 1/2 tbsp Lime juice
- 1 tsp Chili powder
- 1/2 tsp Smoked paprika
- 1 clove Garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 ears Fresh corn (or 1 1/2 cups frozen corn)
- 1 tsp Cumin
- Pinch of Cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp Chopped cilantro
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 Red onion, finely diced
- 1 Bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups Romaine lettuce or spinach
- 1/2 cup Plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp Honey (optional)
- Crumbled cotija or feta cheese to taste
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Begin by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Ensure that the chicken is well-coated and let it marinate for 20-30 minutes to enhance flavor.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side until the internal temperature hits 165°F. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it.
- Grill the corn, brushed lightly with olive oil, for about 8-10 minutes until the kernels are perfectly charred. Once done, slice the kernels off the cob and toss them in a bowl with cumin, cayenne, cilantro, and a splash of lime juice for that delightful extra flavor.
- Prepare the dressing by whisking Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, honey, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth in texture.
- Divide the lettuce or spinach between bowls. Top each bowl with sliced chicken, the grilled corn mix, cherry tomatoes, diced onion, and bell pepper. Drizzle with your yogurt dressing, sprinkle with crumbled cheese and fresh herbs, and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas. Prep ingredients ahead of time to speed up preparation.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: High Protein
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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