Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

Name: Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup mild salsa; 4 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil; 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs (4 oz each); 2 corn on the cobs; 2 romaine hearts; Optional garnishes: avocado, red onion, grape tomatoes

Published: July 22, 2025

by Lucille

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, this salad is ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of grilled chicken, corn, and salsa dressing brings a burst of flavor to every bite.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh vegetables, this salad is both satisfying and nutritious.
Versatile Serving: Perfect as a main dish or a side salad, it complements various meals beautifully.
Simple Grilling Technique: With minimal grilling required, even novice cooks can master this recipe effortlessly.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment on hand will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Large platter
Cutting board
Knife
Spray bottle for olive oil

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor on both chicken and romaine.
Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface to slice your ingredients easily.
Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for your chicken and vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Salad

1/2 cup jarred mild salsa
4 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
1/2 lime
4 boneless (skinless chicken thighs) (4 oz each), trimmed of fat
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon cumin
2 corn on the cobs (husks removed)
2 romaine hearts
olive oil spray

For Garnish

4 oz avocado (1 small hass sliced)
2 tablespoons diced red onion
1/2 cup halved grape tomatoes
pinch of kosher salt

How to Make Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Combine the salsa, extra virgin olive oil, and juice from half a lime in a bowl. Stir well to blend the flavors together. Set it aside while you prepare the rest.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle kosher salt, dried oregano, and cumin over the chicken thighs. Make sure they are evenly coated for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Light your grill to medium heat. While it’s heating up, remove any tired outer leaves from the romaine hearts. Cut each head vertically in half.

Step 4: Prep Ingredients for Grilling

Place the halved romaine on a large platter. Spray cut sides lightly with olive oil spray. Also, spray corn with olive oil to enhance its flavor during grilling.

Step 5: Grill Chicken and Corn

Once the grill is ready, place both chicken thighs and corn on it. Cook each side of the chicken for about 5 minutes until cooked through. The corn should become tender during this time as well. Remove them from the grill once done.

Step 6: Grill the Romaine

Next, grill the romaine hearts cut side down over high heat for about 1 to 2 minutes until they have nice grill marks. Remove them from heat when finished.

Step 7: Assemble Your Salad

Slice the grilled chicken into strips and cut kernels off the corn cob. Layer these over your grilled romaine along with sliced avocado, diced red onion, grape tomatoes, a pinch of kosher salt, and drizzle generously with your prepared salsa dressing.

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing!

How to Serve Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

Serving Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing can elevate your dining experience. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a festive dinner, consider these creative serving suggestions to delight your guests.

On a Bed of Greens

Mixed Greens: Serve the salad on a bed of fresh mixed greens for added crunch and flavor.
Spinach: Pair with baby spinach for a nutritious boost that complements the grilled flavors.

With Extra Toppings

Cheese: Add crumbled feta or shredded cheese for a creamy texture that enhances each bite.
Nuts: Sprinkle toasted almonds or pecans for a delightful crunch and additional protein.

In a Wrap

Wrap it Up: Use large lettuce leaves to create wraps, filling them with the salad mix for easy eating.
Tortilla Wrap: Roll the salad in whole wheat tortillas for a portable meal option.

As an Appetizer

Small Portions: Serve in small bowls as an appetizer at gatherings, allowing guests to enjoy a taste before the main course.
Skewers: Thread pieces of chicken and corn onto skewers for a fun finger food option.

How to Perfect Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

To achieve the best flavor and presentation in your Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing, follow these helpful tips.

Bold seasoning: Use sufficient salt and spices on the chicken to enhance its flavor during grilling.
High heat grilling: Preheat your grill to high heat for perfectly charred romaine that maintains its crispness.
Fresh ingredients: Choose fresh produce for vibrant flavors; ripe tomatoes and crisp corn make all the difference.
Don’t overcook: Keep an eye on cooking times to ensure chicken stays juicy and corn is tender without being mushy.
Let it rest: Allow grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing; this keeps it moist.
Customize your salsa: Try different salsas (like mango or pineapple) to add unique twists to your dressing.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad can enhance the overall meal. Here are some delicious options you might consider.

Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter adds satisfying crunch alongside your salad.
Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish seasoned with herbs complements the flavors of your grilled salad nicely.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast that balances out the richness of the chicken.
Fruit Salad: A chilled fruit salad offers a sweet finish to your meal while keeping it light and refreshing.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs serve as hearty comfort food next to your fresh salad.
Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad dressed in vinegar offers coolness that pairs well with warm grilled items.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing, avoid these common mistakes to ensure a delicious outcome.

Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always use salt, herbs, and spices to enhance taste.
Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long may make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
Not grilling the romaine enough: Under-grilling the romaine can make it tough. Aim for a good char on the cut side for optimal flavor and texture.
Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using old or wilted vegetables will affect the salad’s taste. Always opt for fresh produce for the best flavor.
Forgetting to prepare dressing in advance: Making salsa dressing at the last minute can disrupt your cooking flow. Combine your dressing ahead of time for ease.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Separate the salsa dressing if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

Freezing is not recommended: The grilled romaine may become soggy upon thawing.
If you must freeze, consider freezing only the cooked chicken separately, which can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Place chicken and corn in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes or until warm.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and corn, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing vegetarian?

You can replace chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option that still satisfies!

Can I use different types of lettuce in this salad?

Yes! While romaine adds crunch, you can substitute with other greens like kale or butter lettuce based on your preference.

What is the best way to grill corn?

Grill corn on medium heat until tender and slightly charred, usually around 10-15 minutes total. Rotate every few minutes for even cooking.

How can I customize my Grilled Romaine Salad?

Feel free to add other toppings such as black beans, cheese, or different vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing is a refreshing dish perfect for summer meals. Its combination of smoky grilled flavors and zesty salsa makes it both appealing and versatile. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients! Enjoy this easy recipe any day of the week!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card