Chicken & Corn Salad - high fibre & high protein
CHICKEN & CORN SALAD - high fibre & high protein! is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 460 calories per serving. Recipe by TIFFYCOOKS on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 15 min | Total: 40 min
Cost: $8.42 total, $2.10 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 pieces Chicken Breast (skinless, boneless, trimmed)
- 1 cup Fresh Corn Kernels (about 2 ears of corn, kernels removed; can use canned or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter (cut into small pieces)
- 1 teaspoon Paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 0.5 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 0.5 cup Mayonnaise (store‑bought or homemade)
- 0.5 teaspoon Chili Powder
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (extra‑virgin)
- 1 piece Cucumber (medium, diced)
- 0.5 cup Red Onion (diced, about ½ small onion)
- 1 piece Jalapeño (seeded and minced; adjust for heat)
- 2 tablespoons Cilantro (chopped)
Instructions
Prep Vegetables
Dice the cucumber, finely dice the red onion, mince the jalapeño, and chop the cilantro. Set aside in separate bowls.
Time: PT5M
Pan‑Fry Corn
Heat the skillet over medium‑high heat, melt the butter, add the corn kernels, season with paprika and salt, and sauté for about 5 minutes until lightly charred.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 375°F
Make Creamy Dressing
In a small bowl combine mayonnaise, paprika, chili powder, lemon juice, and olive oil. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Time: PT2M
Pan‑Fry Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add a drizzle of oil to the skillet over medium heat, place the chicken and cook 5‑6 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Time: PT10M
Temperature: 350°F
Cube Chicken
Slice the rested chicken against the grain into bite‑size cubes.
Time: PT2M
Assemble Salad
In the large mixing bowl combine the diced cucumber, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, pan‑fried corn, and cubed chicken. Pour the creamy dressing over the top and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Time: PT3M
Serve
Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual plates. Enjoy at room temperature or slightly chilled.
Time: PT1M
Temperature: Room Temperature
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 460
- Protein
- 30 g
- Carbohydrates
- 20 g
- Fat
- 25 g
- Fiber
- 4 g
Dietary info: High Protein, Gluten‑Free, Low Carb
Allergens: Eggs, Dairy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Chicken Breast: Turkey Breast, Firm Tofu
- Instead of Fresh Corn Kernels: Frozen Corn, Canned Corn
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Olive Oil
- Instead of Paprika: Chili Powder
- Instead of Kosher Salt: Table Salt
- Instead of Mayonnaise: Greek Yogurt
- Instead of Chili Powder: Paprika
- Instead of Lemon Juice: Lime Juice
- Instead of Olive Oil: Vegetable Oil
- Instead of Cucumber: Zucchini
- Instead of Red Onion: White Onion
- Instead of Jalapeño: Serrano Pepper
- Instead of Cilantro: Parsley
Equipment Needed
- Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
- Small Bowl
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon
- Measuring Spoons
- Serving Spoon
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Pan‑frying the corn until lightly charred
- Cooking the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F
- Ensuring the dressing is well emulsified
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use fresh, sweet corn kernels for the best flavor; if using frozen, thaw and pat dry first.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the dressing for a subtle smoky depth.
- A drizzle of honey in the dressing balances the heat from jalapeño.
Troubleshooting
Corn becomes soggy.
Sauté the corn on high heat for a short time and serve immediately; avoid covering the pan.
Chicken turns dry.
Do not overcook; remove from heat at 160°F and let rest to finish cooking to 165°F.
Dressing is too thick.
Thin with a teaspoon of water or extra lemon juice until desired consistency.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep dressing separate if storing longer to prevent sogginess.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture will degrade.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Grill or pan‑fry the chicken a day ahead; store in the fridge and add to the salad just before serving.
- Prepare the dressing in advance and keep it sealed; whisk again before using.
- Pan‑fry corn just before assembly to retain crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of creamy chicken and corn salad in American cuisine?
While not a traditional heritage dish, the creamy chicken and corn salad reflects modern American comfort food trends that combine protein‑rich chicken with sweet summer corn, a nod to Mid‑western farm‑to‑table cooking and the popularity of hearty salads in casual dining.
What are the traditional regional variations of chicken‑corn salads in the United States?
In the Southwest, versions often include black beans, avocado, and a lime‑cumin dressing. In the Midwest, fresh corn and a mayo‑based dressing are common, sometimes with dill or bacon added for extra richness.
How is creamy chicken and corn salad traditionally served in American households?
It is typically served chilled or at room temperature as a main lunch dish, a side at barbecues, or a potluck staple, often accompanied by crusty bread or a simple green salad.
What occasions or celebrations is creamy chicken and corn salad associated with in American culture?
The salad is popular at summer picnics, backyard barbecues, family reunions, and casual potlucks because it can be prepared ahead and showcases seasonal corn.
What other American dishes pair well with creamy chicken and corn salad?
Grilled burgers, smoked ribs, baked beans, or a crisp coleslaw complement the salad’s creamy texture and bright flavors, making it a versatile side for a full barbecue spread.
What makes this creamy chicken and corn salad special compared to other chicken salads?
The use of freshly pan‑fried corn adds a sweet crunch, while the paprika‑lemon mayo dressing gives a smoky‑citrus kick that sets it apart from plain mayo‑based chicken salads.
How has the creamy chicken and corn salad evolved in modern American cooking?
Originally a simple mayo‑chicken mix, modern versions incorporate grilled or pan‑fried corn, fresh herbs, and spice blends like paprika and chili powder, reflecting a trend toward bolder, layered flavors.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making creamy chicken and corn salad?
Overcooking the corn so it loses its crunch, over‑cooking the chicken which makes it dry, and using too much dressing which can make the salad soggy are the top pitfalls.
Why does this recipe pan‑fry the corn instead of boiling it?
Pan‑frying caramelizes the natural sugars in the corn, creating a deeper flavor and a pleasant char that boiling cannot achieve, while also keeping the kernels firm.
What does the YouTube channel TIFFYCOOKS specialize in?
The YouTube channel TIFFYCOOKS focuses on quick, high‑protein, family‑friendly meals that emphasize fresh ingredients, easy techniques, and balanced nutrition for busy home cooks.
How does the YouTube channel TIFFYCOOKS' approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
TIFFYCOOKS prioritizes nutrient density and protein content while keeping recipes under 30 minutes, often swapping traditional heavy ingredients for lighter alternatives and providing clear, step‑by‑step visual guides.
Last updated: August 29, 2026








