Corn is a classic accompaniment for chicken. The sweet flavor of corn complements the savory chicken perfectly. However, there are some things to consider when pairing corn with chicken. In this article, we’ll look at the pros and cons of serving corn as a side dish with chicken.
The case for corn as a chicken side
Here are some of the benefits of serving corn alongside chicken:
- Flavor – The sweetness of corn balances the savory flavor of chicken. The textures also complement each other nicely.
- Nutrition – Corn provides fiber, vitamins C and B, and the antioxidant lutein. Pairing it with chicken makes for a nutritious meal.
- Variety – Chicken and corn is a simple combination that adds variety to basic chicken and rice or potato sides.
- Seasonality – Corn is at its peak in the summer, which is also grill season. Grilled chicken and corn on the cob is a classic summer meal.
- Ease – Corn on the cob takes only minutes to prepare. Canned or frozen corn is also quick and easy.
The simplicity of chicken and corn is part of its appeal. The flavors mesh wonderfully, and it makes for an easy, satisfying meal.
Drawbacks of pairing corn with chicken
On the other hand, there are a few reasons why corn may not always be the best choice with chicken:
- Too much starch – Chicken and corn combines two starchy foods. Adding a green vegetable or salad provides more balance.
- Lacks complexity – The simple flavors of chicken and corn work, but other sides like beans or roasted veggies add more interest.
- Same textures – The soft textures of corn and cooked chicken tend to blend together. A crunchy slaw or crisp roasted potato provides contrast.
- Calls for breading – Fried or breaded chicken tends to pair better with sides that soak up sauce. Corn’s sweetness clashes with heavier breading.
While chicken and corn do go well together, it’s a good idea to vary your sides. Mixing it up keeps chicken dinners more interesting.
Tips for serving corn with chicken
Here are some tips for successfully pairing corn and chicken:
- Go for contrast – Balance the sweet corn with something tart like a vinaigrette slaw or tomato salad.
- Add crunch – Toast pecans, pepitas, or panko breadcrumbs to sprinkle on for texture.
- Roast the corn – Charring the corn brings out the natural sweetness.
- Flavor the corn – Mix herbs, spices, lime, or chili powder into the corn for extra dimension.
- Saut?? the corn – Quickly saut??ing corn in butter or oil caramelizes the natural sugars.
With a little creativity, corn can be a stellar accompaniment to chicken. The key is adding contrasting textures and flavors.
What proteins pair well with corn?
In addition to chicken, corn pairs deliciously with these proteins:
- Seafood – Corn complements the briny flavor of shrimp, crab, scallops, and whitefish.
- Pork – The sweetness of corn balances the richness of pork chops, tenderloin, or roast.
- Sausage – Smoky kielbasa, Italian sausage, chorizo, and brats all sizzle with corn.
- Beef – Flank steak, skirt steak, and burgers get a sweet counterpoint from grilled corn.
- Lamb – The hearty flavor of lamb chops or kebabs works well with summery corn.
Corn’s versatility makes it pair nicely with most meats. It brings its bright, sweet flavor to balance the savory proteins.
What are the best ways to cook corn?
There are many excellent ways to prepare fresh corn. Here are some top cooking methods:
- Grilling – Grilled corn develops a smoky char while retaining its juicy crunch.
- Roasting – Oven roasting accentuates the natural sweetness of corn.
- Saut??ing – Quickly cooking corn in oil or butter caramelizes the kernels.
- Steaming – Steaming keeps corn tender and highlights its fresh taste.
- Microwaving – Microwaved corn steams perfectly in just minutes.
Any of these cooking methods are excellent options for serving corn with chicken. Grilling or roasting add nice charred flavor notes, while steaming and microwaving better preserve the corn’s freshness.
What are good ways to flavor corn?
Beyond basic butter and salt, there are many flavor possibilities for corn. Consider these tasty ways to spice it up:
- Herbs – Basil, cilantro, parsley, thyme all add fresh herb flavor.
- Spices – Chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne bring smoky spice and heat.
- Citrus – Lime juice and zest brighten up corn’s flavor.
- Cheese – Grated parmesan, cotija, or feta lend a savory, salty accent.
- Compound butters – Blend herbs, garlic, or chipotle into softened butter.
Get creative with combinations of flavors to liven up corn when serving it with chicken. Flavorful corn beats plain buttered or salted corn any day.
What are the best ways to build a full chicken and corn meal?
Chicken and corn make a great start, but a balanced meal needs more. Construct a full plate with combinations like:
- Chicken thighs, corn on the cob, tomato salad, baked beans
- Sautéed chicken breast, roasted corn, sweet potatoes, green salad
- Chicken kebabs, grilled corn, quinoa salad, pita bread
- Fried chicken, creamed corn, coleslaw, buttermilk biscuit
- Chicken tacos, grilled corn, black beans, salsa, rice
Vary the cooking methods and mix up the additional sides for a flavorful, satisfying chicken and corn dinner.
Corn Side Dish Recipes to Pair with Chicken
These recipes showcase delicious ways to serve corn with chicken:
Mexican Street Corn
The spicy, savory flavors of this Mexican street-style corn make it an awesome pairing for simple grilled or baked chicken. Top charred corn on the cob with a zesty mix of mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime juice, cilantro, and chili powder.
Corn and Tomato Salad
For a fresh take, nix corn on the cob in favor of a corn and tomato salad. Combine grilled corn kernels with cherry tomatoes, red onion, basil, olive oil, and red wine vinegar. Season with salt, pepper, and a little sugar.
Creamed Corn
For cozy comfort food, creamed corn is the ultimate side. Sauté corn kernels with milk, cream, and a little flour. Finish with parmesan, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper for rich, creamy texture.
Corn Pudding
Baked corn pudding is a scrumptious option for soaking up sauce or drippings. Mix corn kernels with eggs, milk, cheddar, green onion, and parsley. Pour into a baking dish and cook until set and lightly browned.
Any of these recipes would be right at home next to flavorful chicken fresh off the grill, skillet, or oven. Corn is a versatile side dish with many possibilities beyond plain boiled corn on the cob.
Conclusion
Corn is a classic side dish for good reason – its sweet flavor complements chicken perfectly. However, pairing corn with chicken does take some finesse to balance textures and flavors. For the best results, char or caramelize the corn, add crunch and acidity, and complete the meal with heartier sides. With a little creativity, you can enjoy chicken and corn together in endless delicious ways all summer long.