Grilled Chicken Bowl with Pesto and Roasted Corn

Description:
This Grilled Chicken Bowl with Pesto and Roasted Corn is a vibrant and healthy meal that combines juicy grilled chicken, sweet roasted corn, and fresh pesto over a bed of rice or greens. The smoky corn and fragrant basil pesto create a perfect balance of flavors, making this bowl a satisfying dish for lunch or dinner.
Origin:
This dish takes inspiration from Mediterranean and American cuisines. The grilled chicken and pesto are staples in Mediterranean dishes, while roasted corn brings a touch of Americana. Combining them creates a delicious fusion meal.
Ingredients:
For the Grilled Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Roasted Corn:
- 2 ears of corn (or 1 ½ cups frozen corn kernels)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
For the Pesto:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 2 cloves garlic
- ¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
For the Bowl Base:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or quinoa) or mixed greens (spinach, arugula, etc.)
Optional Toppings:
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Avocado, sliced
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro or parsley
Instructions:
- Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat the grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Roast the Corn:
- If using fresh corn, remove the husks and silk, and brush the ears with olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or use a grill to roast the corn. Roast for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are golden and slightly charred. If using frozen corn, toss with olive oil and seasoning and roast in a baking dish for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Once roasted, cut the corn off the cob (if using fresh corn) and set aside.
- Make the Pesto:
- In a food processor, combine the basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped.
- With the processor running, slowly stream in the olive oil until the pesto is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Assemble the Bowl:
- Start by placing your base (cooked rice or mixed greens) in each bowl.
- Add sliced grilled chicken, roasted corn, and a generous drizzle of pesto on top.
- Add any optional toppings like cherry tomatoes, avocado, feta, or red onion for extra flavor and texture.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, smoky, and herby flavors in every bite!
Tips for Success:
- For extra smoky flavor, try grilling the corn directly on the grill instead of roasting it in the oven.
- Feel free to use store-bought pesto if you’re short on time, though homemade pesto is always best!
- You can swap the chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- The pesto can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Recommendations:
- Pair this bowl with a side of crusty bread to soak up the pesto.
- For a lower-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or lettuce leaves for a light, refreshing version.
- Try adding roasted veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for more color and flavor in your bowl.
Nutrition (per serving):
- Calories: 480
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Vitamin A: 20%
- Vitamin C: 25%
- Calcium: 15%
- Iron: 12%
This Grilled Chicken Bowl with Pesto and Roasted Corn is a perfect meal for a healthy, balanced lunch or dinner. The mix of grilled protein, fresh vegetables, and vibrant pesto makes it a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both delicious and nutritious. Enjoy!