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Easy ground chicken Mexican corn recipe in skillet with lime and cotija cheese

Easy Ground Chicken Mexican Corn Recipe (30-Minute One-Pan Dinner!)


  • Author: Emily
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Whip up this smoky, zesty ground chicken Mexican corn recipe in one pan! Perfectly balanced with sweet corn, bold spices, and fresh lime, it’s ideal for tacos, salads, or a standalone skillet meal.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground chicken (thigh or breast)

  • 1.5 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp chili powder

  • 1 tsp ground cumin

  • ½ tsp smoked paprika

  • Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tbsp)

  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Optional: ½ cup black beans (drained), ¼ cup cotija cheese, avocado slices, jalapeños

Instructions

  • Prep Ingredients: Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and thaw frozen corn (if using).
  • Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add ground chicken, breaking it into crumbles. Cook until no pink remains (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
  • Sauté Aromatics: Add onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until softened (2-3 minutes).
  • Add Spices: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Toast for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Mix in Corn: Add corn (and black beans, if using). Cook for 3-4 minutes until corn is tender.
  • Finish with Lime & Herbs: Remove from heat. Stir in lime juice and cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  • Serve: Top with cotija cheese, avocado, or jalapeños. Serve with tortillas, rice, or over greens.