Print

Cajun Grilled Chicken Breast Recipe with Easy Sweet Corn Salsa

Cajun grilled chicken breast - featured image
Print Recipe

A flavorful Cajun grilled chicken breast with a smoky crust paired with a fresh, sweet corn salsa that balances spice and sweetness perfectly. Quick and easy to prepare, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or outdoor gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz / 170 g each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen sweet corn kernels
  • 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced
  • ½ small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cajun Spice Rub: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  2. Prep the Chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry. Rub with olive oil, then evenly coat with the Cajun spice mix. Let sit for at least 10 minutes at room temperature or marinate up to 2 hours in the fridge.
  3. Make the Sweet Corn Salsa: In a medium bowl, combine corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, and minced jalapeño if using. Add lime juice and chopped cilantro. Season with salt and pepper and toss gently. Set aside.
  4. Preheat the Grill: Heat grill to medium-high (about 400°F / 200°C). Clean and oil grates. If using a grill pan indoors, heat over medium-high until hot.
  5. Grill the Chicken: Place chicken on grill and cook 6-7 minutes per side, flipping once, until crust forms and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Avoid pressing down on the meat.
  6. Rest the Chicken: Transfer chicken to a plate, cover loosely with foil, and rest for 5 minutes.
  7. Serve: Slice chicken breasts and spoon sweet corn salsa over the top. Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedge if desired.

Notes

Let chicken rest at room temperature before grilling for even cooking. Oil the chicken instead of the grill grates to keep seasoning in place and prevent flare-ups. Flip chicken only once to develop a good crust. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Prepare salsa at least 30 minutes ahead for best flavor. Frozen corn can be used if fresh is unavailable.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun chicken, grilled chicken breast, sweet corn salsa, easy dinner, summer recipe, spicy chicken, backyard cookout

Find it online: https://yumyep.com/cajun-grilled-chicken-breast-recipe-with-easy-sweet-corn-salsa/