Introduction to Crazy Good Street Corn Chicken
Hey, guys, and fellow food aficionados! If you’re reading this, then just like me you probably also find it quite a daunting juggling act at times to get a scrumptious yet crowd-pleasing meal together. This is where my Crazy Good Street Corn Chicken comes into play. A flash not just of flavor but a real quick dinner solution for those busy weeknights when it otherwise seems unattainable. Imagine tender grilled chicken with bright charred corn and that spicy jalapeño lime cashew sauce all snuggled up in soft corn tortillas. Very ideal to impress your loved ones or lift up an easy weeknight dinner. Let us now get into this culinary adventure!
Why You’ll Love This Crazy Good Street Corn Chicken
Plenty of color and flavor for this great dish to come into your belly and be thoroughly enjoyed. A Healthy Recipe that comes together so quickly is perfect for busy moms and professionals always on the run to make even exciting flavors and textures come together to satisfy even the pickiest eater. Most importantly, it’s super flexible to meet any dietary needs. Say Hello to No More Dinner Stress and a Big Good Evening to Flavorful Family Favorites!
Ingredients for Crazy Good Street Corn Chicken
Ready to embark on this flavorful journey? Before we jump into cooking, let’s gather our stars! Here’s what you’ll need for the Crazy Good Street Corn Chicken.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Tender and juicy, they absorb flavors beautifully.
- Olive oil: A healthy fat for marinating and grilling, adding richness.
- Ground cumin: This spice brings warmth and depth to the dish.
- Ground coriander: It adds a citrusy, floral note that balances the spices.
- Ground turmeric: Not just for color, it adds a subtle earthiness.
- Garlic powder: A tasty shortcut to that beloved garlic flavor.
- Dried oregano: Bringing an herbaceous note that nods to Mexican cuisine.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): For those who like to spice things up! You can skip it for a milder dish.
- Kosher salt: Essential for enhancing all flavors throughout the dish.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a touch of sharpness to balance the ingredients.
- Ears of corn: Sweet and fresh, these contribute a lovely crunch.
- Avocado: Creamy cubes add a luxurious texture to your tortillas.
- Jalapeño pepper: Slice it thin for a zesty bite or leave it out for less heat.
- Fresh cilantro: A vibrant herb that brightens the whole dish.
- Red onion: A mild crunch that adds sweetness and color.
- Lime: The juice brings a refreshing acidity that ties everything together.
- Soft corn tortillas: The perfect vessel for all these delicious fillings!
- Raw cashews: Soaked to create a creamy sauce—it’s a game changer!
- Water: To help blend the sauce smoothly; adjust as needed.
- Onion powder: A subtle flavor booster for the cashew sauce.
- Extra jalapeños and cilantro: Use these for garnish and an extra kick!
Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the delicious symphony that is this dish. For exact measurements, check the end of the article, where you can also print the recipe. Let’s get cooking!
How to Make Crazy Good Street Corn Chicken
Now comes the fun part—putting it all together! Each step is easy to follow, and the result is a vibrant, mouthwatering meal that your family will adore. Let’s get started!
Prepare the Cashew Sauce
First, grab those soaked cashews! Drain them well and toss them into your blender. Add in 1/3 cup of water, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, salt, onion powder, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Blend everything until smooth and creamy. Don’t hesitate to add a bit more water if it’s too thick. Trust me, this sauce is a game changer for our Crazy Good Street Corn Chicken.
Marinate the Chicken
Next, let’s get your chicken thighs ready! In a large bowl, mix them with olive oil, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, garlic powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each piece is coated well. Cover and let it marinate for 30 minutes to an hour. The longer, the better for flavor!
Grill the Corn
While the chicken is marinating, let’s prepare the corn. Husk and wash those ears of corn, then brush them lightly with olive oil. Sprinkle on cumin, chili powder, and some salt. Preheat your grill to 400°F. Grill the corn for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until you see those lovely charred bits. The smell will be heavenly!
Grill the Chicken
Once your corn is sizzling away, it’s chicken time! Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill, cooking for about 6-8 minutes per side or until they’re fully cooked and have those beautiful grill marks. This is where the magic happens—aroma fills the air as the flavors deepen. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F for safety!
Combine Ingredients
When your chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes. Then, chop it into bite-sized pieces. Slice the kernels off the corn as well. In a large bowl, gently mix the chicken and corn with diced avocado, jalapeño, cilantro, red onion, lime juice, salt, and pepper. This mixture is pure bliss!
Prepare the Tortillas
To elevate those tortillas, char them over an open flame or in a hot skillet for a few seconds on each side. This adds a delightful warmth and flavor. Just be careful not to burn them; we want soft, chewy goodness here!
Assemble and Serve
Now, the final step! Spread that luscious cashew sauce on each tortilla. Top generously with the chicken and corn salsa, and don’t forget extra jalapeños and cilantro for garnish. Serve these beauties immediately and watch as your family’s faces light up with joy. Enjoy your Crazy Good Street Corn Chicken adventure!
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Tips for Success
- Soak cashews for creamy sauce—it’s totally worth the time!
- Marinate your chicken overnight for maximum flavor.
- Adjust spice levels to suit your family’s taste; less jalapeño for mild, more for spicy!
- Grill corn just until charred; it adds sweetness.
- Use fresh tortillas for best texture and taste!
Equipment Needed
- Grill: A gas or charcoal grill works perfectly, but a grill pan can substitute.
- Blender: An immersion blender is handy for smaller batches.
- Mixing bowls: Use any bowls you have on hand.
- Measuring cups: Essential for accurate ingredient quantities.
- Chef’s knife: Perfect for chopping and slicing.
Variations
- Swap the protein: Try shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- Low-carb option: Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a healthier, gluten-free option.
- Vegetarian twist: Replace chicken with grilled zucchini or mushrooms for a delicious meatless version.
- Extra kick: Add diced chipotle peppers in adobo for a smoky flavor boost in the sauce or salsa.
- Sweet corn salsa: Mix in diced tomatoes or mango for a fruity twist that balances the spice.
Serving Suggestions
- Side dishes: Pair with a fresh garden salad or some spicy black bean corn salad for a delightful crunch.
- Drinks: Serve with chilled agua fresca or a crisp margarita to enhance the flavors.
- Presentation: Garnish with lime wedges and a sprinkle of extra cilantro for a pop of color.
FAQs about Crazy Good Street Corn Chicken
Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some commonly asked questions about my Crazy Good Street Corn Chicken to help you navigate your cooking journey.
Can I make the cashew sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cashew sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a quick blend again before using to ensure it’s smooth and creamy.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Crazy Good Street Corn Chicken is naturally gluten-free as long as you use certified gluten-free corn tortillas. Enjoy this delicious meal without worry!
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?
Sure thing! Frozen corn works perfectly; just make sure to heat it thoroughly. For that sweet char, you can briefly sauté it in a skillet.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and corn salsa in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently, and you’ll have a tasty lunch waiting for you!
What can I serve with Crazy Good Street Corn Chicken?
Pair it with a refreshing salad, or for a hearty touch, serve alongside cilantro lime rice. A cold drink like agua fresca elevates the meal even more!
Final Thoughts
Creating Crazy Good Street Corn Chicken has truly been a delightful experience for me, and I hope it brings the same joy to your kitchen. This dish is not just about quick cooking; it’s about gathering loved ones around the table and celebrating flavor. The combination of succulent chicken, vibrant corn, and that creamy cashew sauce creates a beautiful harmony in every bite. As you share this meal with your family, you’ll find it’s more than just food—it’s a celebration of togetherness, creativity, and love. Enjoy every single delicious moment!
Print
Crazy Good Street Corn Chicken: A Flavor Explosion Awaits!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A deliciously vibrant recipe combining grilled chicken, charred corn, and a zesty jalapeno lime cashew sauce, all served in soft corn tortillas.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 ears corn, husked and washed
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 jalapeno pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup finely diced fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 1 lime, juiced
- 8 soft corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup raw cashews
- 1/3 cup water (plus more if needed)
- 1 clove garlic
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Extra thinly sliced jalapenos
- Extra fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Place cashews in 2 cups of warm water and soak for at least 2 hours, or boil in water and let sit for 30 minutes. Drain well.
- In a blender, combine soaked cashews, 1/3 cup water, jalapeno, garlic, lime juice, salt, onion powder, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
- In a large bowl, mix chicken thighs with olive oil, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garlic powder, oregano, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Brush corn cobs with olive oil and sprinkle with cumin, chili powder, and seasonings.
- Preheat grill to 400°F. Grill chicken thighs for 6-8 minutes per side until fully cooked. Grill corn for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Chop cooked chicken and slice kernels from corn. Combine in a bowl with diced avocado, jalapeno, cilantro, red onion, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
- Char tortillas over an open flame or hot skillet.
- Spread cashew sauce on each tortilla, top with chicken, corn salsa, extra jalapenos, and cilantro. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Soaking cashews helps achieve a creamy texture for the sauce.
- The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be.
- Adjust spice levels by adding or reducing jalapenos and cayenne pepper.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg