Sheet Pan Chili Lime Salmon & Corn Delight

Looking to add some zing to your dinner? This Sheet Pan Chili Lime Salmon & Corn recipe is both easy and bursting with flavor. I’ll show you how to combine fresh salmon, sweet corn, and zesty spices for a meal that’s not just tasty but also a breeze to prepare. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get you ready to impress with this delightful dish!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Chili Lime Salmon & Corn
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels (or canned, drained)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
The main ingredients are simple yet packed with flavor. Salmon fillets offer rich taste and healthy fats. Fresh corn kernels add sweetness and texture. Extra virgin olive oil enhances the dish’s richness. Fresh lime juice brings bright acidity that cuts through the salmon’s richness.
Seasoning and Vegetables
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 small red onion, finely diced
The seasonings create a bold flavor. Chili powder adds heat, while smoked paprika gives a nice depth. Garlic powder, salt, and pepper unite these flavors. The red bell pepper adds crunch and sweetness. Red onion offers a mild bite that complements the dish.
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges for serving
Garnishes elevate the dish. Fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and fresh taste. Lime wedges let you add extra zing to each bite. These simple touches make your dish look and taste even better.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step gets the heat going for your salmon and corn. Next, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes for easy cleanup later.
Making the Marinade
In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of lime juice. Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder to the bowl. Sprinkle in some salt and black pepper. Whisk it all until combined. This zesty marinade will add flavor to your dish.
Preparing the Salmon and Vegetables
Place 4 salmon fillets on one side of the baking sheet. Use a brush or spoon to coat the top of each fillet with half of your marinade. On the other side of the sheet, add 2 cups of corn kernels, 1 chopped red bell pepper, and 1 finely diced red onion. Drizzle the rest of the marinade over these veggies. Toss them together so everything is well coated.
Baking Process
Spread the corn and vegetable mix in a single layer on the baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced out well next to the salmon. Now, place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes. When done, the salmon should flake easily with a fork. The corn and veggies should be tender and slightly caramelized.
Finalizing the Dish
After baking, take the sheet pan out of the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the flavors mix well. To serve, place a salmon fillet on a plate alongside a scoop of the corn and vegetable mix. If you like, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for color and taste.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Best Flavor
Marinating salmon is key to great taste. The marinade adds depth and freshness. The acid from lime juice helps break down the fish, making it tender. For best results, let your salmon soak in the marinade for at least 15 minutes. If you have time, an hour is even better. This gives the fish a chance to absorb all the zesty flavors.
Cooking Time Recommendations
The perfect cooking time for salmon and corn is between 15 to 20 minutes. At 400°F (200°C), salmon should flake easily with a fork when done. Corn and vegetables need to be tender and lightly caramelized. Check your salmon at 15 minutes to avoid overcooking. Each oven is different, so be sure to watch closely.
Presentation Tips
For a beautiful plate, serve salmon on a colorful dish. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a pop of green. Lime wedges not only look good but also offer a burst of flavor. Arrange the corn and veggies neatly beside the salmon. This makes the dish appealing and fun to eat.

Variations
Alternative Protein Options
You can swap salmon for other proteins. Chicken works great in this dish. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Tofu is another option for a plant-based meal. Firm tofu soaks up the marinade well. Cut it into cubes, and it will cook nicely on the sheet pan.
Seasonal Vegetable Swaps
Feel free to change the veggies based on what you have. Zucchini, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes all pair well. Carrots add a nice crunch too. Just remember to cut them to similar sizes for even cooking. This keeps everything tender and tasty.
Spicy Version
If you love heat, add more spice! You can mix in cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount to your taste. You can also use spicy chili powder for extra flavor. Just remember, a little goes a long way!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your leftover chili lime salmon and corn fresh, store them in an airtight container. Refrigerate within two hours after cooking. This helps prevent any bacteria growth. Your dish will stay tasty for up to three days in the fridge. If you plan to eat it later, separate the salmon from the corn for better storage.
Reheating Instructions
When reheating, I recommend using the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon and corn on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to keep the moisture in. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This way, your meal stays juicy and delicious.
Freezing Guidelines
You can freeze the salmon and corn for later use. Wrap each salmon fillet tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. Store the corn in a separate airtight container. Your meal can last up to three months in the freezer. To defrost, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above for the best taste.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. However, you need to thaw them first. Put the fillets in the fridge overnight or submerge them in cold water for about an hour. Once thawed, pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps the marinade stick better. If you start with frozen fillets, increase the cooking time by about 5 minutes. Make sure to check for doneness; the salmon should flake easily.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This recipe works great for meal prep. You can make it ahead and store it in the fridge. Cook the salmon and corn, then let them cool. Place them in airtight containers. They will last for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or oven. This saves time on busy days and gives you tasty meals ready to go!
What sides go well with this dish?
This dish pairs well with many sides. Here are some tasty options:
- Rice: Cilantro lime rice adds a fresh touch.
- Salad: A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette is light and refreshing.
- Quinoa: This adds fiber and protein.
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots or zucchini work well.
- Avocado: Sliced avocado adds creaminess.
Feel free to mix and match!
This dish of chili lime salmon and corn is easy and tasty. You learned about fresh ingredients, from salmon to vegetables. Proper seasoning and marination make it shine. Follow the steps for a delicious meal every time. Remember, you can swap proteins or veggies for your taste. Store leftovers carefully and reheat well to keep flavors. Overall, this recipe is perfect for any night. Enjoy creating a dish your friends and family will love!





![- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine pasta - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought) - 1/2 cup heavy cream - 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese - Fresh basil leaves for garnish - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Gather these ingredients before you start cooking. The pasta and chicken form the base of your dish. The creamy pesto sauce adds rich flavor. The cherry tomatoes bring a burst of freshness. The Parmesan cheese tops it off with a salty kick. Fresh basil leaves make it look gorgeous. Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. If you have the time, try making your own pesto. It’s simple and tastes amazing. You can adjust the flavors to your liking. You can also swap the pasta type if you want. Just keep in mind that different shapes may change how the sauce clings to the pasta. For the chicken, you want it juicy and tender. The seasoning is key here. Use good quality olive oil, salt, and pepper. This will help keep the flavor bright and fresh. Once you have everything, you’ll be ready to make a delicious meal. If you want the full recipe, check out the complete guide for step-by-step instructions. Start by boiling a large pot of water. Add a good amount of salt to the water. This will help flavor the pasta. Once the water is boiling, add your spaghetti or fettuccine. Cook it until it is al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. When done, drain the pasta. Make sure to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later. While the pasta cooks, get ready to season the chicken. Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken breasts. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken. Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes. You want the chicken to turn a nice golden brown. Check that the juices run clear when you cut into it. Once cooked, take the chicken out of the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice it into thin strips. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium-low. Add your basil pesto to the pan and stir it. You want to warm it through but not burn it. After about a minute, slowly pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Stir it all together until it is well mixed and heated, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Now, add the cooked pasta to the skillet with your creamy pesto sauce. Toss the pasta gently to make sure it gets coated evenly. If the sauce looks too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water. This will help you reach your desired creamy consistency. To finish, fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and the sliced chicken. Stir everything together for another 2 minutes. This will warm the chicken and tomatoes through. Finally, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. Toss it lightly to mix. For a bright touch, garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. For a full recipe, check out the details above! You can use homemade or store-bought pesto for this dish. Homemade pesto gives you full control over flavors, but store-bought saves time. If you want a stronger basil taste, simply add more fresh basil leaves to your mix. For a milder flavor, blend in more nuts or cheese. This helps balance the taste to your liking. To keep your chicken juicy, avoid overcooking it. Cook chicken breasts in a hot skillet for 6-7 minutes on each side. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Rest the chicken for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices stay inside. You can make your sauce thicker or lighter based on your taste. For a richer sauce, use more heavy cream. If you want a lighter option, try half-and-half or low-fat milk. Adding a splash of pasta water helps adjust the sauce's thickness too. This way, you can achieve the perfect creamy texture for your chicken pesto pasta. For the Full Recipe, check out the detailed instructions to create this delightful dish! {{image_4}} Adding vegetables to your Chicken Pesto Pasta makes it even better. It boosts flavor and nutrition. Seasonal veggies like spinach or bell peppers work great. Spinach adds a nice green color. Bell peppers give a sweet crunch. You can toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking. This way, they stay bright and fresh. If you need gluten-free pasta, you have choices! You can use rice pasta or chickpea pasta. These options taste great and cook well. Just follow the package instructions. Cooking times may differ, so keep an eye on them. You want your pasta to be tender but not mushy. Not in the mood for chicken? Try shrimp or tofu instead! Shrimp cooks fast and adds a nice twist. Just sauté them until they turn pink. Tofu is a fantastic plant-based option. Make sure to press it first to remove extra water. Adjust cooking times based on what you choose. This keeps your dish delicious and exciting. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. Store any leftovers in the fridge. Use a tight-sealing container to keep your chicken pesto pasta fresh. Glass containers work well, as do plastic ones. Make sure to let it cool down before putting it away. It stays good in the fridge for up to three days. To freeze your chicken pesto pasta, pack it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. Just label the bag with the date so you remember when you froze it. When reheating, use the microwave or stovetop. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir between each burst to ensure even warming. On the stovetop, add a splash of water or cream to keep it moist. This helps keep the creaminess intact. Enjoy your meal again as if it were fresh! To make chicken pesto pasta from scratch, follow these basic steps: 1. Cook the pasta. Boil water in a large pot, add salt, and cook your choice of spaghetti or fettuccine until al dente. 2. Prepare the chicken. Season boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear them in olive oil until golden brown. 3. Make the sauce. In the same skillet, mix basil pesto with heavy cream until warm and creamy. 4. Combine. Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce and sliced chicken. Adjust the sauce with reserved pasta water if needed. 5. Serve. Garnish with cherry tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil. You can find the full recipe above for a detailed guide. Yes, you can make chicken pesto pasta ahead of time. Here are some tips: - Cooked pasta and sauce. Prepare the chicken and sauce, then store them separately from the pasta. This keeps them fresh. - Refrigerate. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. - Freeze. For longer storage, freeze the chicken and sauce. Use within two months for best flavor. - Reheat. When ready, reheat the chicken and sauce. Cook the pasta fresh to keep it al dente. Chicken pesto pasta pairs well with various side dishes. Consider these suggestions: - Garlic bread. A warm, crispy slice complements the creamy pasta. - Salad. A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish. - Roasted vegetables. Seasonal veggies add color and nutrients to the meal. Chicken pesto pasta can be a healthy option. Here’s why: - Protein. Chicken provides lean protein, which is vital for muscle health. - Basil and olive oil. These ingredients are rich in antioxidants and healthy fats. - Pasta. Whole-grain pasta offers fiber, which aids digestion. - Portion control. Adjust the serving size to fit your dietary needs. Absolutely! You can use various pasta types. Here are some alternatives: - Whole wheat pasta. Adds extra fiber and nutrients. - Gluten-free pasta. Great for those with gluten sensitivities. - Zoodles. Spiralized zucchini for a low-carb option. - Penne or rigatoni. These shapes hold the sauce well, providing a satisfying bite. In this post, I covered how to make a delicious chicken pesto pasta. We discussed the main ingredients and their roles, along with simple steps for cooking. I also shared tips for perfecting your dish and exciting variations to try. In closing, this recipe is easy and flexible, letting you customize flavors. Whether you choose to add veggies or change proteins, your meal will impress. Enjoy this tasty dish and make it your own!](https://dishtreats.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/ae0d281d-adb6-406a-8a42-58bd8911a0b3-768x768.webp)

