When it comes to crafting a vibrant, healthy meal that’s bursting with flavor, the 7-layer street corn chicken salad stands out as a must-try dish. By combining savory chicken with fresh, zesty ingredients, this salad can easily serve as the star of your dinner table or a perfect meal prep option.
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Growing up, my family had a tradition of making salads that could double as a full meal. This particular recipe was a highlight during summer gatherings. My grandmother, known for her creative flair in the kitchen, introduced us to layering techniques that not only heightened the flavors but also made the dish visually appealing. Her secret was a sprinkle of lime juice and tajín, a tip I still use today to enhance the street corn’s flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a delightful mix of textures and tastes, making it both unique and satisfying. The layers offer a burst of flavor in every bite, with spicy, crunchy, and creamy elements that blend perfectly. It’s practical for any occasion, whether it’s a quick lunch or a party dish. Plus, it’s scalable, so you can easily increase the quantity to suit larger gatherings.
Ingredients Notes
To create this delectable dish, you’ll need chicken breast, fresh corn, black beans, avocado, tomatoes, red onion, lime, and cotija cheese. For sourcing tips, choose ripe avocados and fresh lime to ensure the best flavor. You can substitute cotija cheese with feta if desired.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Grill the chicken breasts until thoroughly cooked. Let them cool slightly before slicing them into thin strips. This will ensure that they remain juicy and flavorful.
Step 2
Cook the corn on the cob, either on a grill or by boiling, until tender. Once cooled, slice the kernels off and set them aside for later use.
Step 3
Prepare the remaining ingredients: dice the avocado and tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, and rinse the black beans if using canned ones.
Step 4
Assemble the salad by layering ingredients in a large serving dish or individual bowls. Start with the chicken layer, followed by corn, black beans, avocado, and tomatoes.
Step 5
Finish with a sprinkle of cotija cheese and drizzle everything with fresh lime juice. Top it off with optional tajín for an extra kick.
Storage Options
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to freeze the chicken separately, make sure it is completely cooled and placed in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and enjoy it cold or at room temperature.
Variations & Substitutions
For a vegetarian twist, replace the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms. You can also add other veggies such as bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch. Swap cotija cheese for a dairy-free alternative to make it vegan-friendly.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect for outdoor barbecues, potlucks, or as a light dinner option. Pair it with tortilla chips or warm bread to complement the textures and enjoy a well-rounded meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare most layers in advance. Store each component separately in the refrigerator and assemble them when ready to serve to maintain freshness and texture.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier? Absolutely! Add chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce when assembling the layers for an added heat boost.
How do I prevent the avocado from browning? Toss the diced avocado in lime juice right after slicing. The acidity helps prevent oxidation, keeping it fresh longer.
How to Make 7-Layer Street Corn Chicken Salad: A Mouthwatering Recipe!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups grilled chicken breast diced or shredded
- 1 can black beans rinsed and drained
- 1.5 cups corn kernels fire-roasted
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup red bell pepper diced
- 1 cup avocado diced
- 0.5 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 0.5 cup cilantro chopped
Dressing
- 0.5 cup Greek yogurt plain
- 0.3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 0.5 teaspoon chili powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon pepper freshly ground
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Mix the dressing ingredients: Combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Whisk until smooth.
- Layer the salad: In a large serving dish or bowl, layer grilled chicken, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, avocado, and red onion.
- Top with cilantro: Scatter the chopped cilantro over the salad layers.
- Serve with dressing: Drizzle dressing over the salad just before serving or serve on the side.
