Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe

Introduction

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings together tender, seasoned chicken, creamy street corn, and a bed of fluffy rice. Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Mexican street food, this dish incorporates charred corn, a touch of creamy mayo, tangy lime, and fresh herbs, combined with seasoned grilled chicken and served over a hearty base of rice. The result is a colorful, bold, and refreshing meal that is as delicious as it is visually appealing.

This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or meal prepping for the week ahead. With its easy-to-make ingredients and satisfying flavors, the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a fulfilling, flavorful dinner or impress guests with a vibrant, tasty dish, this recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

• Deliciously Smoky and Sweet: The grilled chicken adds a savory element, while the street corn is sweet and smoky, with a creamy texture that perfectly complements the bold flavors.
• Fresh and Flavorful: With the addition of lime juice, cilantro, and other fresh ingredients, each bite bursts with refreshing flavors that transport you to a warm, sunny street market.
• Complete Meal in One Bowl: This dish combines protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates in one bowl, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal that you can enjoy any time of day.
• Customizable: The beauty of the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is how easily it can be customized to fit your tastes. Add extra toppings, switch up the proteins, or adjust the level of spice—it’s all up to you!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This bowl is easy to prepare in advance, making it a great option for meal prep or a quick, ready-to-go lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40-50 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 bowls
• Calories per Serving: Around 500-600 calories per bowl, depending on the portion sizes and ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 500-600 kcal
• Fat: 22-26g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 6-8g

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts (about 1 lb), boneless and skinless
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lime juice

For the Street Corn:

• 4 ears of corn, husked
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for garnish)

Rice:

• 1 cup white or brown rice
• 2 cups water or chicken broth (for added flavor)
• Salt, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by preparing the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they cook evenly. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure they are evenly coated. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the chicken for an extra burst of flavor.

Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Once the grill is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The chicken should be golden brown with some grill marks and cooked through. After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into strips or bite-sized pieces.

2. Grill the Corn

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the corn. Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the corn with olive oil to prevent it from sticking to the grill. Grill the corn for 8-10 minutes, rotating it every few minutes until the kernels are slightly charred and golden. You may want to char the corn a little more for extra flavor.

Once grilled, remove the corn from the grill and set it aside to cool for a few minutes. Once cool enough to handle, use a sharp knife to cut the kernels off the cob, ensuring you get as much of the corn as possible. Set the corn aside for the street corn mixture.

3. Make the Street Corn Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Add the grilled corn kernels to the bowl with the creamy mixture, stirring gently to coat the corn evenly with the sauce. Sprinkle in the crumbled cotija cheese and mix until the cheese is incorporated into the corn mixture. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a bit more spice, feel free to add extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.

4. Cook the Rice

While the chicken and corn are cooking, prepare the rice. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Add a pinch of salt, then stir in the rice. Cover and reduce the heat to low, allowing the rice to simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains, making it light and fluffy. This rice will serve as the base for your rice bowls.

5. Assemble the Bowls

To assemble your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls, start by spooning a generous portion of the rice into each bowl. Top the rice with a portion of the grilled chicken and a heaping scoop of the creamy street corn mixture. Feel free to pile on the toppings and add extra lime wedges for a burst of citrus.

Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for added flavor and color. If you enjoy extra crunch, consider topping the bowls with crushed tortilla chips. Serve with lime wedges on the side for those who love a zesty kick.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once your bowls are assembled, they’re ready to serve! These Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls are best enjoyed immediately while the chicken is warm and the flavors are fresh. The combination of smoky grilled chicken, creamy corn, and flavorful rice makes for a satisfying and hearty meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Tips for Perfect Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the chili powder in both the chicken and street corn mixture. Alternatively, add a bit more cayenne pepper or hot sauce to spice things up.
• Use Fresh Corn: Fresh, in-season corn will give you the best flavor, but frozen corn can also work if you don’t have fresh ears of corn available. Simply sauté or grill the frozen corn until it is heated through and slightly charred.
• Customize the Toppings: The beauty of these rice bowls is how easily they can be personalized. Consider adding avocado slices, jalapeños, or a drizzle of your favorite salsa for extra flavor.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is great for meal prep. Store the cooked chicken, street corn mixture, and rice in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat the components and assemble your bowl.
• Use Brown Rice for a Healthier Option: If you’re looking for a more nutritious option, try using brown rice instead of white rice. It adds more fiber and a slightly nuttier flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

Variations of Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

• BBQ Chicken Street Corn Rice Bowl: For a different flavor profile, replace the grilled chicken with BBQ chicken. The smoky, sweet BBQ sauce pairs wonderfully with the creamy street corn.
• Veggie Street Corn Rice Bowl: Skip the chicken and add extra vegetables like grilled bell peppers, zucchini, or portobello mushrooms for a satisfying vegetarian option.
• Shrimp Street Corn Rice Bowl: Substitute grilled shrimp for the chicken for a seafood twist. Shrimp’s natural sweetness and delicate texture pair beautifully with the smoky street corn.
• Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl: Add extra heat by incorporating jalapeños or a spicy hot sauce into the street corn mixture. You can also add a spicy crema on top for an added kick.

Storage and Shelf Life

For optimal freshness, store leftover Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken and corn mixture can be stored separately, which helps to preserve their textures and flavors. The dish should be consumed within 3-4 days for the best quality.

If you want to store the rice bowls for a longer period, consider freezing the chicken and rice components separately in freezer-safe bags or containers. These will stay good for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, reheat the rice and chicken, and add the street corn mixture just before serving to maintain its creamy texture.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

While the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with complementary sides can make for a more well-rounded dining experience:

• Mexican Street Fries: Crispy, seasoned fries served with a tangy dipping sauce or guacamole make a great side to this bowl.
• Guacamole and Chips: A bowl of fresh guacamole and crunchy tortilla chips always pairs well with Mexican-inspired dishes like this one.
• Black Beans or Pinto Beans: A side of seasoned beans, either black or pinto, is an excellent source of protein and a perfect complement to the rice bowl.
• Tropical Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with mango, pineapple, and orange slices balances the richness of the bowl with a burst of sweetness.

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Conclusion

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a satisfying, flavorful meal that combines the best of Mexican street food in a simple and delicious bowl. With tender grilled chicken, creamy street corn, and a flavorful base of rice, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd, meal prepping, or simply craving something vibrant and delicious, the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is the perfect choice.