Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

If you’re craving a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s as comforting as it is vibrant, this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is the perfect dish for you. Combining tender grilled chicken, a creamy and tangy street corn topping, and a bed of fluffy rice, this bowl is a fiesta of flavors and textures. It’s simple to make, filling, and incredibly delicious, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead. Whether you’re a fan of street corn or just looking for a tasty bowl to enjoy, this recipe will hit the spot every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bold and Flavorful: The combination of smoky grilled chicken, sweet corn, and zesty lime gives this bowl a burst of flavor in every bite.
2. Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty and satisfying without the long cook time.
3. Versatile: You can customize the toppings to your liking, from adding avocado to using different cheeses or even switching up the protein.
4. Healthy and Filling: With lean chicken, fiber-rich corn, and whole grains, this dish is nutritious and satisfying.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store it for easy, delicious meals throughout the week.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Olive oil
• Chili powder
• Garlic powder
• Cumin
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper

For the Street Corn:

• Corn on the cob or frozen corn kernels
• Butter
• Mayonnaise
• Cotija cheese or feta cheese
• Lime juice
• Chili powder
• Fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Rice Bowl:

• Cooked white rice or brown rice
• Avocado (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh lime wedges (for garnish)

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a bit of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the chicken marinade or street corn for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Cheese Options: If you can’t find Cotija cheese, feta cheese works great as a substitute, or try using queso fresco.
• Add Beans: For added protein, consider topping your bowl with black beans or pinto beans.

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 it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through and juices run clear.
• Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest before slicing it thinly.

Step 2: Make the Street Corn

• If using fresh corn, grill it until charred on all sides, about 10 minutes. If using frozen corn, sauté it in butter until golden and heated through.
• In a bowl, combine the cooked corn with mayonnaise, Cotija cheese, lime juice, chili powder, and fresh cilantro. Stir well to coat the corn with the mixture.

Step 3: Assemble the Rice Bowl

• Spoon a generous amount of cooked rice into each bowl.
• Layer the sliced chicken on top of the rice, followed by a generous portion of the street corn mixture.
• Garnish with sliced avocado, a squeeze of lime, and fresh cilantro for extra flavor and color.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the rice bowl with extra lime wedges on the side for an added burst of freshness.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep the juices locked in, ensuring a tender bite.
• Use Fresh Corn When Possible: Fresh grilled corn adds extra flavor, but frozen corn works well if fresh isn’t available.
• Customize Toppings: Feel free to add extra toppings like salsa, sour cream, or a sprinkle of cheese to make this bowl your own.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Keep an eye on the chicken and remove it as soon as it’s done to ensure it remains juicy.
• Use Leftover Rice: If you have leftover rice, this is the perfect recipe to use it up.

How to Serve

This dish is ideal served as a hearty and flavorful main course. You can enjoy it just as it is or add a side of tortilla chips for a bit of crunch. If you’re looking for extra freshness, a simple green salad would pair wonderfully with the bold flavors of the chicken and street corn.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

• In the Fridge: Store any leftover rice, chicken, and street corn in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken and street corn in the microwave or on the stove. If needed, add a splash of water or broth to the rice to keep it from drying out.

Freezing

• Freezing: You can freeze the chicken and street corn mixture for up to 2 months. Make sure the rice is fully cooled before freezing. Reheat the dish in the microwave or stovetop when ready to serve.
• Reheating from Frozen: Thaw the components overnight in the fridge before reheating. If frozen rice is used, you may need to add a little water when reheating to keep it from becoming too dry.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and will be even juicier due to their higher fat content.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare all the components in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Just assemble the bowls right before serving.

3. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to either the chicken marinade or the street corn for a spicy kick.

4. Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, frozen corn works just as well as fresh. Just make sure to sauté it in butter until golden for the best flavor.

5. Can I substitute the mayonnaise in the street corn?

You can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream if you prefer a lighter or tangier alternative.

6. What other toppings can I add to the rice bowl?

Feel free to add extra toppings like sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, or shredded cheese.

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

Yes, brown rice works just as well and adds extra fiber to the dish.

8. How do I make the chicken more tender?

Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the meat. You can also pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for more even cooking.

9. Can I add beans to the rice bowl?

Yes! Black beans or pinto beans would be a great addition for extra protein and flavor.

10. How long does this dish last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is the ultimate comfort food with its balanced flavors of smoky chicken, creamy street corn, and fresh rice. It’s quick, versatile, and perfect for busy nights when you want a delicious, satisfying meal without a lot of effort. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your rotation!

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