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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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!