Standing in my kitchen, I couldn’t help but imagine the lively streets of Mexico, where the intoxicating aroma of grilled corn fills the air. That’s the feeling that inspired my creation of the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. This delightful dish interlaces the savory taste of juicy chicken with sweet, smoky corn—each bite a tribute to the vibrant street food I adore. Not only is this recipe high in protein, making it a perfect fit for meal prep, but it also allows you to whip up a satisfying meal in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re entertaining friends or simply craving a hearty dinner, this bowl is a flavor-packed journey you won’t want to miss. Curious how to bring this fiesta of flavors to your table? Let’s dive in!
Why is this recipe a must-try?
Bold flavors: This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl showcases the deliciousness of Mexican street food, bringing a vibrant taste to your dinner table.
Quick prep: In just 30 minutes, you can have a satisfying, protein-packed meal ready, perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile options: Customize it by swapping chicken for turkey or tofu, or enjoy it in corn tortillas for a tasty taco twist!
Meal prep-friendly: Easily store components separately to keep your meals fresh throughout the week.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether feeding your family or hosting friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress with its rich flavors and colorful presentation. You might also love serving it alongside our Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole for an exciting meal!
Street Corn Chicken Rice Ingredients
• Get ready to ignite your taste buds!
For the Bowl
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast – Provides a hearty protein base; you can substitute it with turkey or tofu for variety.
- 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice – A fluffy foundation that complements the dish; brown rice is a healthier alternative.
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn – Adds sweetness and a delightful crunch, reminiscent of elote; frozen corn requires no extra prep.
- 1 large avocado – This creamy element brings healthy fats; keep it separate until serving for optimal freshness.
- 0.25 cup fresh cilantro, chopped – Lifts the flavor profile with its fresh notes; dried cilantro works in a pinch, but fresh is best.
- 1 lime, juiced – Provides a zesty brightness that elevates the dish; fresh lime juice reigns supreme over bottled options.
- 0.5 cup cotija or feta cheese – Adds a salty, creamy touch to the bowl; you can swap with Parmesan if unavailable.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder – Infuses the chicken with spice and depth; feel free to adjust based on your heat preference.
- 1 splash olive oil for cooking – Necessary for sautéing the chicken; any neutral oil can work just fine.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential flavor enhancers that round out the dish beautifully.
For Serving
- Lime wedges – A squeeze just before eating brightens every bite!
- Additional cilantro – Sprinkle on top for added freshness and a pop of color!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Begin by rinsing 1 cup of jasmine or basmati rice under cold water until it runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender and the water is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork and keep it covered until ready to serve.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the rice cooks, take 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts and season both sides with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. Make sure to coat it evenly for a flavorful kick. Set the chicken aside for about 5 minutes, allowing the spices to penetrate the meat while you prepare for cooking.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil to coat the bottom, about 1 tablespoon should do. Once the oil shimmers, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring the chicken is golden brown and juicy.
Step 4: Sauté the Corn
In the last few minutes of cooking the chicken, add 1 cup of fresh or frozen corn to the skillet. Sauté the corn alongside the chicken for about 3-5 minutes until it turns slightly charred and fragrant. This will introduce a delicious smokiness reminiscent of Mexican street corn, enhancing the overall flavor of your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl.
Step 5: Rest and Chop the Chicken
Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a cutting board. Let it rest for a couple of minutes to retain its juices. Once rested, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces, ensuring an even distribution in your bowl later. The flavorful chicken will be the star of the dish!
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
In a large serving bowl, combine the fluffy rice, sautéed corn, and chopped chicken. Add in 0.25 cup of chopped fresh cilantro and the juice of 1 lime, mixing everything together gently. This blend of warm ingredients will help meld the flavors, offering a burst of fresh taste that’s essential to the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Scoop the mixture into bowls, ensuring a generous portion in each. Top with slices of 1 large avocado and sprinkle with 0.5 cup of cotija or feta cheese for a creamy, salty finish. To elevate your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, serve with lime wedges and extra cilantro on the side, encouraging everyone to add a fresh squeeze of lime to their liking.
What to Serve with Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Elevate your meal experience with these delightful side dishes that perfectly complement the vibrant flavors of your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl.
- Crispy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping up the bowl’s ingredients; they add a satisfying crunch that’s hard to resist.
- Zesty Black Bean Salad: A refreshing contrast that introduces more protein and fiber, enhancing the nutritional value of your meal.
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like bell peppers and zucchini bring smoky flavors and a beautiful mix of colors to the table. Perfect for balancing the richness of the rice bowl!
- Guacamole: Creamy and fresh, it adds richness while echoing the avocado in your main dish, creating a luscious experience.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Infused with citrus and herb, this side echoes the lime in your bowl, amplifying those uplifting flavors.
- Chilled Mexican Street Corn Salad: A light and refreshing choice, this dish mirrors the corn in your bowl while adding a creamy, tangy twist that everyone will love.
- Margaritas or Palomas: For a touch of celebration, these cocktails bring a festive flair to your meal, perfectly pairing with the bold flavors of your bowl.
- Flan: This creamy, caramel dessert offers a sweet ending to your meal, balancing the savory components with its delightful richness.
Expert Tips for the Best Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
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Preheat the Pan: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps to achieve a lovely sear and keeps the meat juicy.
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Don’t Skip the Rest: Allow your chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This step locks in the flavors and moisture, ensuring every bite is tender.
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Customize the Heat: Adjust the chili powder to suit your taste. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with half of what’s recommended and build up from there in your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl.
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Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always opt for fresh lime juice and cilantro for the best flavor. Bottled juice can be convenient, but it doesn’t compare to the brightness of fresh.
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Store Separately: For meal prep, store the avocado, rice, and chicken in separate containers. This keeps everything fresh and prevents browning until you’re ready to eat.
Make Ahead Options
These Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the rice and season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. The chicken can be cooked and chopped ahead of time, then refrigerated for up to 3 days. Simply sauté the corn closer to serving for that fresh, smoky flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy your bowl, just heat the rice and chicken together, add the sautéed corn, and finish with fresh avocado and cheese. This way, you can enjoy a wholesome meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Street Corn Chicken Rice
Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Keep avocado separate to prevent browning.
Freezer: You can freeze the chicken and corn mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating: For best results, reheat the chicken and corn in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, then add fresh avocado and other toppings before serving.
Meal Prep: Consider storing components separately in the fridge to maintain texture and flavor, especially for the Street Corn Chicken Rice bowl ingredients.
Street Corn Chicken Rice Variations
Get ready to explore delightful twists on this delicious dish that can tantalize your taste buds even further!
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Turkey Swap: Use ground turkey instead of chicken for a lighter twist without sacrificing flavor. The taste will remain robust and satisfying.
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Tofu Delight: Try cubed tofu for a plant-based option that’s equally protein-rich. Marinate for added flavor; it’s a perfect choice for vegetarians!
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Taco Style: Serve the components wrapped in corn tortillas for a fun taco night experience. It’s a great way to mix things up with hands-on dining!
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Cheesy Boost: Melt a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack on top for an extra layer of richness. This melty addition elevates the comfort food experience.
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Flavor Explosion: Add a spoonful of your favorite salsa or pico de gallo for an extra kick. The fresh ingredients will brighten the overall flavor profile.
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Spice it Up: Increase the amount of chili powder or add cayenne pepper for those who love heat. Feel the fiery thrill with every bite!
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Fresh Greens: Swap the rice for a bed of fresh mixed greens for a light, salad-like version. Top with the same ingredients for a refreshing twist.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: Substitute plain rice for cilantro lime rice to enhance the flavor richness even more. It’s a zesty choice that complements the dish beautifully.
Whether you’re looking to infuse more flavor, try new textures, or cater to dietary preferences, these variations allow you to personalize your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl experience. For even more delicious inspiration, don’t forget to check out our Sticky Garlic Chicken and Street Corn Chicken recipes!
Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe FAQs
What type of corn should I use for this recipe?
You can use either fresh or frozen corn for your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. Fresh corn provides a delightful sweetness, while frozen corn is convenient and requires no prep, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
How should I store leftovers from the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to keep the avocado separate to prevent browning.
Can I freeze the chicken and corn mixture? How?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken and corn mixture! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, you can either reheat it directly from frozen in a skillet over medium heat or thaw it overnight in the fridge.
What if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly?
Very! If you find that your chicken isn’t cooking evenly, it may be too thick. I recommend pounding the chicken breasts to a uniform thickness, about 1 inch thick, before seasoning. This allows them to cook evenly and reach the correct internal temperature of 165°F.
Is this recipe suitable for kids or those with allergies?
Absolutely! The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is customizable to suit different dietary needs. For kids, consider reducing the chili powder for a milder flavor. If allergies are a concern, be mindful of the cheese; you can skip it altogether or use a dairy-free alternative. Always check for individual ingredient sensitivities!
Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl: A Flavorful Feast at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse rice under cold water. Combine with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to boil, reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender. Fluff and keep covered.
- Season both sides of chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and chili powder. Let it sit for about 5 minutes.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Place seasoned chicken in skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through.
- In the last few minutes of cooking, add corn to the skillet and sauté until slightly charred, about 3-5 minutes.
- Remove chicken and let rest. Chop into bite-sized pieces once rested.
- Combine rice, sautéed corn, chopped chicken, cilantro, and lime juice in a large serving bowl.
- Serve the mixture in bowls, topping with avocado slices and cotija or feta cheese. Offer lime wedges and extra cilantro on the side.
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