If you are craving a dish bursting with fresh, zesty flavors and a hint of summer sunshine, this Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Fresh Corn Salsa Recipe is just what you need. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts seasoned perfectly with fragrant cilantro lime spices, accompanied by a vibrant, crisp corn salsa packed with fresh corn, zesty lime, and sharp red onion. This recipe balances bright, citrusy notes and savory goodness in a way that feels both simple and special—a true crowd-pleaser and a go-to for easy weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is thoughtfully chosen for its ability to create layers of flavor and texture without overwhelming your palate. These simple, fresh components come together to make a dish that’s colorful, balanced, and irresistibly tasty.
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels: Brings natural sweetness and crunch, the star of the fresh salsa.
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro: Adds herbaceous brightness and that signature cilantro lime flair.
- 2 tablespoons minced red onion: Offers sharp, pungent bite that contrasts beautifully with the sweet corn.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: Provides fresh acidity to brighten every bite.
- 1 teaspoon lime zest: Intensifies the citrus aroma and flavor without watering down the salsa.
- 1 teaspoon olive oil: Adds silkiness and helps meld the salsa ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon cilantro lime seasoning (JBJ Soul Seasoning brand recommended): Infuses unmistakable, spicy herbal notes into the salsa.
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The perfect protein to soak up the lovely tang and spice of the seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon cilantro lime seasoning (JBJ Soul Seasoning brand recommended): For coating the chicken with the zesty/herby seasoning blend.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the chicken develop a gorgeous sear and prevents sticking.
How to Make Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Fresh Corn Salsa Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Fresh Corn Salsa
Start by combining the fresh corn kernels, chopped cilantro, minced red onion, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, cilantro lime seasoning, and kosher salt in a bowl. Stir everything gently but thoroughly to mix the flavors. Setting it aside gives the salsa time to marry the fresh and zesty tastes, letting the lime and cilantro do their magic and amplify the natural sweetness of the corn.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Take the chicken breasts and rub them evenly with both the cilantro lime seasoning and olive oil. This step not only seasons the meat but also ensures that the chicken will cook up with a beautiful, flavorful crust that locks in moisture. It’s simple yet impactful seasoning that sets the stage for juicy, tasty chicken every time.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat your grill or skillet to medium-high. Place the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side. Watch for a golden sear and confirm doneness by checking the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s perfectly cooked but still tender and juicy. This method guarantees a moist texture with a flavorful crust from the seasoning and oil.
Step 4: Let the Chicken Rest
Once cooked, remove the chicken from heat and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Resting is crucial as it lets the juices redistribute within the meat, making each bite succulent rather than dry. This step is the secret behind restaurant-quality chicken at home.
Step 5: Serve with Fresh Corn Salsa
Serve the chicken breasts either topped with generous spoonfuls of the fresh corn salsa or alongside it. The contrast of the warm, seasoned chicken with the cool, crisp salsa creates an exciting combination that’s both light and satisfying.
How to Serve Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Fresh Corn Salsa Recipe
Garnishes
To make your presentation pop, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro leaves or thinly sliced green onions over the chicken and salsa. A few lime wedges on the side not only add color but allow your guests to add a touch more zing if they’d like. These simple garnishes elevate the dish’s fresh feel and amp up the citrusy aroma.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy white rice or a warm quinoa salad for a wholesome meal. You might also enjoy it with crispy tortilla chips or warmed corn tortillas to create a taco-inspired spread. Grilled vegetables or a light black bean salad can round out the meal with contrasting textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the chicken and layer it over the salsa on tostada shells, or pile both into soft corn tortillas for easy handheld tacos. Alternatively, turn this recipe into a vibrant salad by serving the chicken sliced atop a bed of mixed greens, drizzled with a light lime vinaigrette. Each presentation brings a lively, fresh energy to your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken and corn salsa in separate airtight containers and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Proper storage helps keep the chicken juicy and the salsa fresh for up to 3 days. Keeping them separate prevents the salsa from making the chicken soggy.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish longer, the cooked chicken breasts freeze well. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then store in freezer bags for up to 3 months. Since the fresh corn salsa contains raw vegetables and lime juice, it does not freeze well; it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating
Reheat chicken gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) to avoid drying it out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as uneven heating can toughen the chicken. Serve with freshly made corn salsa or the refrigerated leftovers to maintain the recipe’s bright, fresh vibe.
FAQs
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn for the salsa?
While fresh corn gives the salsa its characteristic sweetness and crunch, you can use frozen corn in a pinch. Just thaw and drain it well before mixing, but note the texture and flavor won’t be quite as vibrant as fresh corn.
What if I don’t have JBJ Soul Seasoning? Can I make my own cilantro lime seasoning?
Absolutely! Mix chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, dried cilantro, lime zest, salt, and a touch of cayenne for a DIY cilantro lime seasoning. It lets you tailor the spice level and flavor to your liking.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked perfectly?
The best way is to use an instant-read thermometer. Once the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C), the chicken is safe and juicy. Without a thermometer, cut into the thickest part and ensure there’s no pink, and the juice runs clear.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The entire Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Fresh Corn Salsa Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your seasoning does not contain gluten additives. Always check labels to be certain.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
This recipe is ideal for meal prepping since the chicken and salsa can be stored separately and quickly reheated. It keeps well for several days, offering a fresh, flavorful meal that’s easy to assemble on busy days.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly delightful about the way this Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Fresh Corn Salsa Recipe brings together bright citrus, fresh herbs, and sweet corn with tender, flavorful chicken. It’s a recipe that’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough to impress guests. I can’t wait for you to make it, share it, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Fresh Corn Salsa Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cilantro-Lime Chicken and Corn recipe offers a fresh and vibrant meal featuring juicy grilled chicken breasts seasoned with zesty cilantro lime and a bright, flavorful corn salsa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual summer gathering.
Ingredients
Fresh Corn Salsa
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons minced red onion
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cilantro lime seasoning (JBJ Soul Seasoning brand recommended)
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon cilantro lime seasoning (JBJ Soul Seasoning brand recommended)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the fresh corn salsa: In a bowl, combine the fresh corn kernels, chopped cilantro, minced red onion, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, cilantro lime seasoning, and kosher salt. Mix thoroughly and set aside to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Season the chicken: Rub the boneless skinless chicken breasts evenly with the cilantro lime seasoning and olive oil, ensuring each piece is fully coated for maximum flavor.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts on the heat and cook for 5-7 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Rest the chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in moist and tender chicken.
- Serve: Serve the grilled cilantro-lime chicken breasts topped with or alongside the fresh corn salsa for a refreshing and flavorful dish.
Notes
- The cilantro lime seasoning brand recommended is JBJ Soul Seasoning, but any similar seasoning blend can be used.
- For best flavor, use fresh corn kernels. If fresh corn is unavailable, thawed frozen corn can be substituted.
- Letting the salsa rest allows the lime juice and seasoning to enhance the corn’s sweetness.
- If using a skillet, a cast-iron pan works best for even heat distribution.
- Make sure to rest the chicken after cooking to keep it juicy.
