Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe

If you’re craving a vibrant, hearty, and flavorful meal, this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe is the perfect solution. Juicy, seasoned chicken paired with fluffy rice and topped with a creamy, tangy street corn mixture creates a delicious bowl that’s ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Packed with bold flavors and simple ingredients, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!

What is a Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?

A Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl combines the savory elements of marinated chicken, a creamy street corn topping inspired by Mexican elote, and a bed of fluffy rice. The dish captures the essence of street corn with tangy lime, creamy cheese, and smoky spices, bringing a fresh and flavorful twist to your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Vibrant Flavors: The combination of smoky chicken, creamy corn, and seasoned rice is irresistible.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit dietary preferences or available ingredients.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare the components ahead of time for a quick, delicious meal.
• Family Favorite: Perfect for both adults and kids with its mix of textures and flavors.

Ingredients for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1 lime

For the Rice:

• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cilantro-lime rice works well)
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Juice of 1/2 lime
• Salt, to taste

For the Street Corn Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1/4 cup (60ml) mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup (25g) crumbled cotija or feta cheese
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Juice of 1/2 lime
• Chopped cilantro, for garnish

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Skillet or grill pan
• Mixing bowls
• Rice cooker or saucepan
• Knife and cutting board
• Whisk or fork

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken, tossing to coat. Marinate for at least 20 minutes or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator.

2. Cook the Rice

Prepare the rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, stir in butter, garlic powder, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Set aside and keep warm.

3. Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips or bite-sized pieces.

4. Prepare the Street Corn Topping

In a mixing bowl, combine the corn kernels, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, minced garlic, chili powder, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Mix well to combine.

5. Assemble the Bowls

Divide the cooked rice among serving bowls. Top with slices of chicken and a generous scoop of the street corn mixture. Garnish with extra cilantro or cheese if desired.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of fresh, bold flavors!

Tips for Perfect Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

• Marinate for Flavor: Let the chicken marinate longer for deeper, more vibrant flavors.
• Char the Corn: For an authentic street corn taste, char the corn in a skillet or grill pan before mixing it with the other ingredients.
• Use Fresh Lime: Freshly squeezed lime juice enhances the tanginess of the dish.
• Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder to suit your preferred level of heat.

Recipe Variations and Additions

1. Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with black beans or grilled tofu for a meatless alternative.
2. Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat.
3. Grain Swap: Use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a different base.
4. Extra Veggies: Include diced avocado, chopped tomatoes, or shredded lettuce for additional textures and flavors.

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

• As a Standalone Meal: These bowls are hearty and satisfying on their own.
• With Tortilla Chips: Serve with tortilla chips on the side for scooping up the corn topping.
• Family Style: Arrange the components in separate dishes and let everyone build their own bowls.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Storage: Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken and rice in the microwave or a skillet. Serve the street corn topping cold or at room temperature.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken and rice for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen corn?
Yes! Thaw the corn first or cook it directly in a skillet to char it for extra flavor.

2. What’s a good substitute for cotija cheese?
Feta cheese or Parmesan are great substitutes if cotija isn’t available.

3. How do I make this dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free mayonnaise and omit the cheese, or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

4. Can I grill the chicken?
Absolutely! Grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor that complements the street corn topping.

Conclusion

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe is a delightful mix of bold flavors and fresh ingredients, making it a perfect choice for any meal. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or serving dinner to family and friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and experience the vibrant, satisfying taste of these street corn-inspired bowls. Don’t forget to share your feedback and subscribe for more delicious and easy recipes!

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