If you’re craving a vibrant, fresh dish that bursts with bright citrus and herbaceous notes, this Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Fresh Corn Salsa Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a perfect marriage of juicy, seasoned chicken breasts grilled to perfection and topped with a zesty, colorful corn salsa that sings with cilantro, lime, and a subtle kick of red onion. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delightful celebration of summer flavors, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends. The best part is how effortlessly these fresh components come together to create a dish that feels special without complicated prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh and straightforward ingredients is key to making this Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Fresh Corn Salsa Recipe shine. Each item plays a vital role, from adding vibrant color and brightness to lending a juicy, savory depth that keeps every bite exciting.
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels: Sweet, crisp, and juicy, the star ingredient for a naturally sweet salsa base.
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro: Adds a fresh, aromatic note that pairs beautifully with lime.
- 2 tablespoons minced red onion: Provides a mild pungency and subtle crunch to balance the sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: The essential tangy brightness that wakes up the salsa.
- 1 teaspoon lime zest: Intensifies the lime flavor with its fragrant oils.
- 1 teaspoon olive oil: Binds the salsa ingredients together while adding a smooth richness.
- 1 teaspoon cilantro lime seasoning (JBJ Soul Seasoning brand recommended): Packed with herbs and spices, it layers in complexity and savory depth.
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the individual flavors and balances the salsa.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Lean and tender, ready to soak up the seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon cilantro lime seasoning (JBJ Soul Seasoning brand recommended): For seasoning the chicken perfectly before grilling.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Keeps the chicken moist and helps create that nice sear.
How to Make Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Fresh Corn Salsa Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the fresh corn salsa
Start by mixing the fresh corn kernels with chopped cilantro, minced red onion, lime juice, and lime zest in a medium bowl. Drizzle in olive oil and sprinkle in the cilantro lime seasoning along with the kosher salt. Stir everything gently to combine, and set the salsa aside to let those flavors meld while you prep the chicken. This resting time allows the lime and herbs to infuse the corn with a lively, refreshing punch.
Step 2: Season the chicken breasts
Next, rub each chicken breast evenly with the cilantro lime seasoning and olive oil. This seasoning rub gives the chicken a burst of flavor that’s savory, herby, and perfectly citrusy—exactly what you want to complement that fresh salsa.
Step 3: Cook the chicken
Heat up a grill or skillet to medium-high and cook the chicken breasts for 5 to 7 minutes on each side. Your goal here is a nice golden sear on the outside while ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) so the chicken is juicy and safely cooked. This method locks in moisture and builds deep flavor.
Step 4: Let the chicken rest
Once cooked, remove the chicken from heat and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Resting is key as it lets the juices redistribute, leaving you with tender chicken that’s bursting with flavor in every bite.
Step 5: Plate and serve
Serve the chicken breasts either topped with generous spoonfuls of the vibrant fresh corn salsa or place the salsa alongside for each guest to add as they please. The combination of warm, seasoned chicken and cool, zesty salsa is absolutely irresistible.
How to Serve Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Fresh Corn Salsa Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the dish with a few simple garnishes to amp up the visual appeal and flavor. Fresh lime wedges are perfect for an extra citrus squeeze, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro freshens each plate. For a touch of creaminess, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of tangy Greek yogurt adds a cooling contrast to the zesty salsa and spicy chicken.
Side Dishes
This Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Fresh Corn Salsa Recipe pairs beautifully with light sides that complement the bright flavors. Consider serving with fluffy cilantro-lime rice or smoky grilled vegetables for a balanced meal. A crisp green salad or some warm tortillas also work well if you want a casual, fiesta-style presentation.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your meal memorable by turning this recipe into tacos or salads. Slice the grilled chicken and toss it with the fresh corn salsa on a bed of greens for a vibrant salad. Alternatively, pile the chicken and salsa into warm corn tortillas, add a sprinkle of cheese and avocado slices for delicious tacos that everybody will love. These creative presentations keep this recipe exciting no matter how often you make it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your fresh meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay juicy and flavorful for up to three days, and the corn salsa will remain fresh and zesty if kept chilled. Just be sure to store the salsa separately if you want to keep its crisp texture intact.
Freezing
While the chicken can be frozen after cooking for up to two months, the fresh corn salsa does not freeze well due to its high water content and raw vegetables. For freezing, pack the chicken breasts tightly in freezer bags or containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the microwave to avoid drying it out. It’s best to add the corn salsa fresh after reheating to keep its bright, crisp qualities intact. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delightful flavors just like the first time.
FAQs
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Fresh corn kernels provide the best texture and natural sweetness, but you can substitute frozen corn if fresh is not available. Just thaw and drain the kernels well before mixing with the salsa ingredients to avoid excess moisture.
Is there a substitute for the cilantro lime seasoning?
If you don’t have cilantro lime seasoning, try combining ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, lime zest, and a pinch of salt to recreate a similar flavor profile. Fresh cilantro and lime juice will still brighten the dish.
What’s the best way to get grill marks on the chicken?
Make sure your grill or skillet is fully preheated to medium-high before adding the chicken. Avoid moving the chicken too soon after placing it down; letting it cook undisturbed for several minutes will create those beautiful grill marks.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Absolutely! The basic recipe is naturally dairy-free. Just skip any creamy garnishes like sour cream or yogurt, or use dairy-free alternatives for a perfect dairy-free meal.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeño to the corn salsa or sprinkle some chili flakes over the chicken before grilling. Adjust to your desired heat level for a fiery twist.
Final Thoughts
This Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Fresh Corn Salsa Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like sunshine on a plate — fresh, easy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking a quick dinner or entertaining guests, it comes together quickly but leaves a lasting impression. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the zest, crunch, and juiciness that makes weeknight meals exciting again!
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
A vibrant and zesty Cilantro-Lime Chicken paired with a fresh corn salsa, perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight meal. This recipe features juicy grilled chicken breasts seasoned with cilantro and lime, complemented by a bright, tangy corn salsa bursting with fresh ingredients.
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 medium 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 breasts: Evenly rub the chicken breasts with the cilantro lime seasoning and olive oil, ensuring each piece is well coated for maximum flavor.
- Cook the chicken: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the hot surface and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is fully cooked and juices run clear.
- Rest the chicken: Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Serve: Plate the cooked chicken breasts either topped with or alongside the fresh corn salsa for a bright and flavorful meal.
Notes
- Fresh corn can be substituted with frozen corn if fresh is unavailable; thaw and drain before use.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the corn salsa.
- Letting the chicken rest after cooking helps keep it juicy and tender.
- If using a skillet, a cast iron pan is ideal for even heat distribution.
- Adjust salt to taste, especially if using a seasoning blend that already contains salt.
