Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Introduction

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl has quickly become one of my favorite go-to recipes. It’s the perfect combination of bold, flavorful chicken, creamy Mexican street corn, and fluffy rice. The spices on the chicken and the zesty, tangy street corn create a symphony of flavors that are irresistible. What I love most is how easy it is to make—everything comes together quickly in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a hearty lunch. My family couldn’t stop talking about it when I first made it, and it’s now a regular in our meal rotation. This recipe is customizable, easy to prepare, and packed with flavors that transport you straight to the streets of Mexico.

Ingredients

To make this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Street Corn:

• 1 1/2 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 cup cotija or feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Rice Bowl:

• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cilantro-lime rice)
• Extra lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl:

1. Cook the Chicken:

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly golden. Remove from heat and set aside.

1. Make the Street Corn:

• In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the corn and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the corn is slightly charred and crispy. In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, cheese, lime juice, and cilantro. Add the cooked corn to this mixture and stir until well combined.

1. Assemble the Bowl:

• Divide the cooked rice among bowls. Top each with the seasoned chicken, a generous spoonful of the street corn mixture, and extra cheese or cilantro if desired. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4 bowls
• Calories per serving: 450 kcal
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 600mg

Note: Nutrition information is approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl can be served in various ways:

• As a Complete Meal: Serve the rice bowls as a hearty main dish for lunch or dinner.
• Add Extra Toppings: Feel free to top the bowl with extra cotija cheese, cilantro, or even a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
• Family Style: Serve the components separately (chicken, rice, street corn, and toppings) for a fun, interactive meal where everyone can build their own bowl.
• As a Party Dish: Serve the rice bowls at a gathering for a flavorful, filling option that’s sure to satisfy your guests.

Additional Tips

1. Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, add more chili powder to the chicken or street corn mixture, or even a chopped jalapeño to the corn mixture.
2. Use Grilled Chicken: For extra flavor, grill the chicken instead of cooking it in the skillet. This will give the chicken a smoky flavor that complements the other ingredients.
3. Make It Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with black beans or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian version of this dish.
4. Use Fresh Corn: If possible, use fresh corn on the cob, which can be roasted or grilled for even more flavor in the street corn mixture.
5. Customize the Rice: For an even more flavorful rice base, cook the rice in chicken broth or add cilantro and lime for a bright, zesty twist.

Recipe Variations

• Chicken and Shrimp: Replace the chicken with shrimp for a different protein option. Sauté the shrimp with the same spices for a lighter, seafood version of the bowl.
• Grilled Veggies: Add grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or squash to the street corn for more texture and flavor.
• Spicy Street Corn: For a kick, add a few dashes of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the street corn mixture.
• Substitute Rice: Use quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even couscous as an alternative to the rice for a different base.
• Taco Bowl Variation: Transform this bowl into a taco-inspired dish by adding black beans, guacamole, or a drizzle of taco sauce on top.

Serving Suggestions

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl can be served alongside various sides or enhanced with additional toppings:

• With Tortilla Chips: Serve the rice bowl with crispy tortilla chips for extra crunch.
• With a Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a lighter meal.
• With Salsa or Guacamole: Enhance the bowl with a side of fresh salsa or guacamole for added flavor and creaminess.
• Top with a Fried Egg: Add a fried egg on top for a richer, more indulgent meal.
• Serve with Mexican Street Corn Salad: If you’re in the mood for more corn, make a side of Mexican street corn salad to complement the flavors of the bowl.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This dish can be frozen if you want to make it ahead of time. Store the chicken, rice, and street corn separately in airtight containers. When ready to serve, simply reheat each component and assemble the bowl. Freezing the street corn might slightly alter its texture, but it will still be flavorful.
• Storage: Store any leftover Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through. The rice and chicken hold up well to storage, while the street corn can be kept in a separate container to maintain its freshness.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

• Yes, frozen corn works perfectly in this recipe. Just thaw and sauté it as you would with fresh corn.

1. How can I make this recipe spicier?

• You can increase the chili powder, add a chopped jalapeño to the street corn, or drizzle some hot sauce on top for extra heat.

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

• Yes, you can use brown rice. It will add a nuttier flavor and a bit more fiber to the dish.

1. Can I substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt?

• Absolutely! Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a slightly tangier and healthier option.

1. How do I make the chicken more flavorful?

• Marinate the chicken for 30 minutes with lime juice, garlic, and extra spices to enhance the flavor before cooking.

1. Is this dish gluten-free?

• Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free mayonnaise and make sure your ingredients are free from gluten.

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prep the components in advance. Store the chicken, rice, and street corn separately, then assemble when ready to serve.

1. How can I make this dish dairy-free?

• Use dairy-free alternatives such as vegan sour cream and omit the cotija or feta cheese, or substitute with a dairy-free cheese.

1. Can I add more toppings to the rice bowl?

• Yes, you can add toppings such as avocado, diced tomatoes, or even a drizzle of your favorite dressing for more flavor.

1. Can I use quinoa instead of rice?

• Yes, quinoa makes a great substitute for rice, adding a slightly nutty flavor and extra protein.

Conclusion

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a satisfying and flavorful meal that combines all the best elements of Mexican street corn in a filling, hearty bowl. The juicy chicken, creamy street corn, and fluffy rice come together with a touch of spice and tang, making it a meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. With endless variations and easy-to-follow steps, this dish can easily become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal to impress guests, this street corn chicken rice bowl has you covered. Enjoy!

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