Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl brings together the best of street food flavors in a wholesome, vibrant dish. The combination of tender, grilled chicken, sweet and creamy street corn, and fluffy rice makes this a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Topped with creamy avocado, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime, this bowl is packed with flavor and texture in every bite. Whether you’re craving a quick dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to hit the spot. It’s simple, hearty, and bursting with fresh ingredients, making it the perfect balance of comfort and zest.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Flavor Explosion: The combination of grilled chicken, smoky street corn, and seasoned rice creates a burst of bold and comforting flavors in each bite.
2. Quick and Easy: From marinating the chicken to grilling the corn, this recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
3. Customizable: You can add your favorite toppings like avocado, lime, or cilantro, tailoring the bowl to suit your tastes.
4. Healthy & Filling: Packed with protein, vegetables, and fiber, this dish is nourishing and satisfying without being heavy.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish keeps well in the fridge and makes for a great make-ahead lunch or dinner option.

Ingredients

• Chicken:
  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • Olive oil
  • Chili powder
  • Garlic powder
  • Cumin
  • Paprika
  • Salt and pepper
• Street Corn:
  • Corn on the cob or frozen corn kernels
  • Butter
  • Mayonnaise
  • Cotija cheese or feta cheese
  • Lime juice
  • Chili powder
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Rice Bowl:
  • Cooked white rice or brown rice
  • Avocado, sliced (optional)
  • Fresh lime wedges for garnish

Variations

• Add Vegetables: You can add extra veggies like bell peppers, tomatoes, or red onions to enhance the bowl.
• Use Different Protein: Substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp, steak, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Spicy Twist: If you love heat, add sliced jalapeños to the bowl or increase the amount of chili powder in the street corn.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Marinate and Cook the Chicken

• In a small bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade and let sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
• Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly.

Step 2: Make the Street Corn

• If using fresh corn, grill the cobs for about 10 minutes until charred on all sides. If using frozen corn, sauté it in butter over medium heat until golden and heated through.
• In a bowl, combine the cooked corn with mayonnaise, crumbled Cotija cheese (or feta), lime juice, chili powder, and freshly chopped cilantro. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 3: Assemble the Rice Bowl

• Spoon a generous amount of cooked rice into each bowl.
• Layer with sliced chicken and top with the street corn mixture.
• Garnish with sliced avocado, fresh lime wedges, and extra cilantro, if desired.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the bowls immediately, and enjoy the fresh and bold flavors of this vibrant street corn chicken rice bowl.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to keep it juicy and tender.
• Use Fresh Corn for Extra Flavor: While frozen corn is convenient, fresh corn adds a deliciously sweet and smoky flavor when grilled.
• Control the Spice: Adjust the amount of chili powder in the corn mixture to suit your preferred spice level.
• Make it Dairy-Free: If you prefer to make this dish dairy-free, you can use a dairy-free mayonnaise alternative and skip the Cotija cheese.

How to Serve

This dish is perfect as a standalone meal but also pairs wonderfully with a side of tortilla chips or a light green salad. You can serve it with a refreshing drink like iced tea or a lime-infused sparkling water for a perfect meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

• In the Fridge: Store leftover chicken and street corn separately from the rice in airtight containers. The chicken and corn will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat the chicken and corn in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Freezing

• Freezing: While the chicken and street corn can be frozen separately for up to 3 months, the rice and toppings (like avocado) are best served fresh and should not be frozen.

Reheating

• Reheat the chicken and street corn in the microwave or on the stovetop, and prepare fresh rice when ready to serve.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?

Yes, frozen corn works perfectly for this recipe and can be sautéed in butter for a golden, delicious finish.

2. How can I make this dish spicier?

You can increase the chili powder in the corn mixture or add sliced jalapeños to the bowl for an extra kick.

3. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice adds a nice nutty flavor and extra fiber to the dish, but feel free to use any type of rice you prefer.

4. Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor to the dish, and they work just as well as chicken breasts.

5. How long should I marinate the chicken?

Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes, though marinating for up to an hour will deepen the flavors.

6. Can I use a grill instead of a skillet for the chicken?

Yes, grilling the chicken will give it a smoky flavor that complements the street corn beautifully.

7. Can I skip the mayonnaise for a lighter version?

Yes, you can skip the mayonnaise and use Greek yogurt or sour cream as a substitute.

8. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the chicken with grilled tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.

9. Can I add other toppings to the rice bowl?

Feel free to add any toppings you like, such as sour cream, pickled onions, or a spicy salsa for extra flavor.

10. Can I freeze the street corn?

Yes, you can freeze the street corn mixture, but it’s best to enjoy it fresh for the most vibrant flavor.

Conclusion

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is the perfect balance of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and comfort. With tender grilled chicken, sweet and creamy street corn, and fluffy rice, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. It’s customizable, easy to make, and perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re feeding a family or making a quick weeknight meal, this dish will be a go-to favorite.

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