Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls for Summer
Eating healthy during the summer can be a delightful experience, especially when you whip up a refreshing dish like Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls. This recipe combines grilled chicken, roasted corn, and fresh veggies, making it not only nutritious but also a feast for the senses. Perfect for backyard barbecues or a light dinner, these bowls are versatile and flavorful.
Why Make This Recipe
When the temperatures rise, we often crave meals that are light yet satisfying. Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls fit the bill perfectly. They boast vibrant flavors while being easy to prepare. This dish is packed with protein from the chicken, fiber from the vegetables, and healthy fats from the olive oil and yogurt dressing. Plus, it’s colorful, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate!
How to Make Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls
Creating these delicious Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls is straightforward. You’ll find that with just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends!
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 ears fresh corn or 1½ cups frozen corn
- 1 tsp olive oil
- ½ tsp cumin
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped cilantro
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, finely diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups romaine lettuce or spinach
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- Juice of ½ lime
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste
- Crumbled cotija or feta cheese
- Fresh cilantro or parsley
- Lime wedges
Directions:
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with this marinade and let them sit for 20–30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once cooked, let the chicken rest before slicing.
- While the chicken is cooking, brush the corn with olive oil, and grill until the kernels are charred, which should take about 8–10 minutes. Once done, cut the kernels off the cob.
- In a bowl, toss the grilled corn with cumin, cayenne, cilantro, and lime juice to enhance its flavor.
- In a different bowl, whisk the Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, honey (if using), salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth. This will be your creamy dressing.
- To assemble the bowls, divide the lettuce between serving bowls. Top each bowl with sliced chicken, grilled corn mixture, cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and chopped bell pepper.
- Drizzle the yogurt dressing over the bowls, sprinkle with crumbled cheese, and add fresh herbs. Serve with lime wedges for an extra zing.
Pro Tips for Success with Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls
- Marinate Well: For an even deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken for a few hours or even overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat more thoroughly.
- Don’t Skip the Grill: Grilling the corn adds a smoky flavor that enhances the dish. If you don’t have a grill, you can char the corn using a stovetop grill pan.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh veggies whenever possible. The crispness and flavor of freshly picked produce bring the entire dish to life.
- Customize to Taste: Feel free to adjust the level of spiciness by adding more cayenne or removing it altogether according to your palate.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the components in advance, like grilling the chicken and corn, to make assembly quick when you’re ready to eat.
Flavor Variations for Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls
- Southwestern Twist: Add black beans, avocado, or diced jalapeños to give the dish a southwestern flair.
- Mediterranean Spin: Swap the corn for grilled zucchini and add olives and feta cheese for a Mediterranean version.
- Thai Inspiration: Use a peanut or sesame dressing in place of the yogurt dressing and add shredded carrots and edamame for a Thai-inspired salad.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with grilled mushrooms or a hearty plant-based protein like chickpeas to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly.
- Fruit Addition: Add fresh mango or pineapple chunks for a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory elements in the dish.
Serving Suggestions for Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls
Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls can be served as a standalone meal or paired with other dishes. Here are some serving ideas:
- Tortilla Chips: Provide some crispy tortilla chips on the side for a nice crunch.
- Quinoa or Rice: Serve the bowls over a bed of cooked quinoa or brown rice for added substance.
- Fresh Salsa: A side of fresh salsa can add more flavor and freshness to the bowls.
- Guacamole: Complement the dish with a side of guacamole for those creamy flavors we all love.
- Grilled Shrimp or Fish: For seafood lovers, grilled shrimp or a light white fish can be an excellent protein substitute in these bowls.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls
Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls are perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to store or freeze them:
- Refrigeration: Store the individual components in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the yogurt dressing separate to maintain its freshness.
- Freezing: While the cooked chicken and corn can be frozen for up to three months, it’s best to assemble the bowls fresh. To enjoy frozen leftovers, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat the chicken before serving.
- Refreshing: To revive any leftover grilled corn, quickly sauté it in a pan for a few minutes to regain warmth and add a touch of freshness.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————|———-|
| Calories | 480 |
| Protein | 38g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 7g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
FAQ About Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any packaged ingredients, such as the Greek yogurt or dressing, are labeled gluten-free.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, frozen chicken breasts can be used, but make sure to thaw them thoroughly before marinating and grilling. This will ensure even cooking and prevent any possible food safety issues.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The components can be individually stored in the fridge for up to three days, making it a convenient option for meal prep lovers looking to eat healthy throughout the week.
Can I add other vegetables to the bowls?
Yes! You can incorporate a variety of vegetables based on your preferences. Bell peppers, cucumbers, and radishes can all add texture and flavor to your bowls.
What kind of cheese can I use if I don’t have crumbled cotija?
Feta cheese is a great alternative, providing a similar crumbly texture and tanginess. You could also try shredded cheddar or even omit the cheese for a dairy-free option.
Final Thoughts
Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls are an excellent choice for summer meals, offering a beautiful blend of flavors and textures in every bite. Whether you’re grilling outside or preparing a quick dinner in your kitchen, this recipe brings sunny vibes to your table. With its ease of preparation, versatility, and health benefits, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Gather your ingredients and enjoy these delicious bowls!
Print
Healthy Chicken and Street Corn Bowls for Summer
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A refreshing and nutritious dish combining grilled chicken, roasted corn, and fresh veggies, perfect for summer meals and backyard barbecues.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 ears fresh corn or 1½ cups frozen corn
- 1 tsp olive oil
- ½ tsp cumin
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped cilantro
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, finely diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups romaine lettuce or spinach
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- Juice of ½ lime
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste
- Crumbled cotija or feta cheese
- Fresh cilantro or parsley
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with this marinade and let them sit for 20–30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once cooked, let the chicken rest before slicing.
- While the chicken is cooking, brush the corn with olive oil, and grill until the kernels are charred, which should take about 8–10 minutes. Once done, cut the kernels off the cob.
- In a bowl, toss the grilled corn with cumin, cayenne, cilantro, and lime juice to enhance its flavor.
- In a different bowl, whisk the Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, honey (if using), salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth. This will be your creamy dressing.
- To assemble the bowls, divide the lettuce between serving bowls. Top each bowl with sliced chicken, grilled corn mixture, cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and chopped bell pepper.
- Drizzle the yogurt dressing over the bowls, sprinkle with crumbled cheese, and add fresh herbs. Serve with lime wedges for an extra zing.
Notes
For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Grilling enhances the corn’s flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
