Print

Creamy Cilantro Lime Chicken Street Corn Salad

Close-up of a white bowl filled with shredded chicken, corn kernels, diced red peppers, cotija cheese, and sprinkled with paprika, ready to eat chicken street corn salad.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this vibrant and flavorful chicken street corn salad inspired by Mexican Elote. It features tender shredded chicken, roasted corn, and a creamy, tangy dressing perfect for lunch or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
  • 2 cups frozen or fresh corn kernels
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Mexican crema
  • 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese, plus extra for topping
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
  • 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/2 jalapeño, seeded and minced

Instructions

  1. If using frozen corn, thaw it. Roast the corn kernels in a dry skillet over medium-high heat until lightly charred in spots, about 5 to 7 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or crema), lime juice, cilantro, cotija cheese, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cumin until smooth. This is your dressing.
  3. Add the shredded chicken, roasted corn, red onion, and red bell pepper to the dressing mixture. If using, add the minced jalapeño.
  4. Gently fold all ingredients together until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
  5. Taste the salad and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
  6. Cover the bowl and chill the chicken street corn salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
  7. Before serving, sprinkle with extra crumbled cotija cheese and a little fresh cilantro.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, use fire-roasted corn kernels if available.
  • You can grill the chicken breasts instead of boiling them for an added smoky flavor.
  • This salad holds up well for potluck side dishes and picnic friendly chicken salad needs.

Nutrition