Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a delightful fusion of flavors, perfect for any occasion! With juicy marinated chicken, sweet charred corn, fluffy rice, and a creamy sauce, this dish stands out for its vibrant taste and ease of preparation. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this bowl has you covered. Its versatility makes it a favorite for meal prep or a cozy family meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The combination of spices and ingredients creates an explosion of taste in every bite.
• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use fresh, frozen, or canned corn based on what you have at home.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for prepping ahead of time; just reheat and enjoy!
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like avocado or extra cheese to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the right tools on hand. These will make the preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill pan or skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Small bowl for sauce
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill pan or skillet: Essential for cooking the chicken evenly while achieving those delicious grill marks.
• Mixing bowl: Makes marinating the chicken easy by providing ample space for mixing ingredients thoroughly.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accuracy when adding spices and other ingredients, leading to consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is packed with bold flavors! Juicy marinated chicken, charred sweet corn, fluffy rice, and a creamy, zesty sauce come together for a satisfying meal. Inspired by Mexican street corn, this dish is easy to make and perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner.

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons lime juice

For the Base

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 ½ cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)

For the Toppings

• 1 tablespoon butter
• ¼ cup cotija cheese, crumbled
• ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 avocado (optional), sliced

For the Creamy Sauce

• ¼ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons mayo
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

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How to Make Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and lime juice. Coat the chicken thoroughly in this marinade. Allow it to sit for at least 15–30 minutes to absorb all those wonderful flavors.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat your grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken. Cook each side for 5–7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). After cooking, let the chicken rest before slicing it into strips.

Step 3: Char the Corn

In the same pan used for cooking chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add corn and cook it for 3–5 minutes until it becomes slightly charred. Season with a pinch of salt and chili powder to enhance its flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together sour cream, mayo, lime juice, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir thoroughly until smooth and set aside.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowl

Start with a base of cooked rice in your serving bowls. Next, layer on sliced chicken followed by charred corn. Drizzle generously with your creamy sauce. Finally, sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro on top. If desired, add slices of avocado for an extra creamy touch.

Enjoy your delicious Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl!

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Serving your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is an opportunity to get creative and enhance the flavors of this delightful dish. Here are some suggestions to elevate your meal presentation and enjoyment.

Add Fresh Ingredients

• Lime Wedges: Squeeze fresh lime over the bowl for an extra tangy kick.
• Chopped Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add sliced jalapeños on top.
• Radish Slices: Thinly sliced radishes provide a crunchy texture and vibrant color.

Pair with Beverages

• Agua Fresca: A refreshing fruit-infused water that complements the dish well.
• Margaritas: A classic choice that enhances the Mexican-inspired flavors.
• Iced Tea: Sweetened or unsweetened, iced tea can balance the richness of the bowl.

Use Unique Bowls

• Colorful Bowls: Serve in brightly colored bowls to make the dish visually appealing.
• Bento Boxes: Use bento boxes for a fun, compartmentalized presentation.

How to Perfect Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

To achieve a delicious Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, consider these tips that will enhance your cooking experience and flavor profile.

• Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour for deeper flavor absorption.
• Grill for Flavor: If possible, grill the chicken instead of pan-searing for a smoky taste.
• Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn enhances sweetness; if using frozen or canned, try charring it for added depth.
• Balance Creaminess: Adjust sour cream and mayo ratios in your sauce for desired creaminess without overwhelming flavors.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding black beans or diced tomatoes for additional texture and nutrition.
• Let It Rest: Allow cooked chicken to rest before slicing to retain its juices, resulting in tender pieces.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Complementing your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that pair nicely.

1. Refried Beans: Creamy beans add protein and richness, enhancing satisfaction.
2. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A fresh salad featuring corn, lime, and spices mirrors flavors from the main dish.
3. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adds richness and pairs perfectly with the bowl’s ingredients.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa offer a delightful contrast in texture.
5. Elote (Mexican Grilled Corn): This grilled corn on the cob is seasoned similarly to street corn, making it a perfect match.
6. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime brightens up each bite of chicken rice bowl.
7. Grilled Veggies: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrition on the side.
8. Tostones (Fried Plantains): Crispy plantains add a unique crunch and sweetness that balances savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks make simple mistakes that can affect the quality of their Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always allow at least 15-30 minutes for the marinade to infuse the chicken with taste.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) for juicy results.
• Using Unseasoned Corn: If you skip seasoning the corn, it may taste dull. Adding a pinch of salt and chili powder enhances its natural sweetness.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Substituting fresh ingredients for dried ones can alter flavors. Whenever possible, use fresh cilantro, lime, and corn for an authentic taste.
• Not Balancing Flavors: Failing to balance creamy and tangy elements in your sauce might leave your dish one-dimensional. Aim for a perfect mix of sour cream, mayo, and lime juice for richness with zest.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

• Place components separately in freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; however, the texture of rice may change upon reheating.

Reheating Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil; heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving for maximum freshness.

What are good substitutes for cotija cheese?

If cotija cheese is unavailable, feta or crumbled queso fresco works well as alternatives while still providing a creamy texture.

How do I customize my Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?

Feel free to add toppings like diced jalapeños or black beans for extra flavor and texture! You can also swap proteins, using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and can be easily portioned out into individual servings.

Final Thoughts

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is not only bursting with flavor but also offers versatility for various dietary preferences. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe allows room for customization. Try adding your favorite toppings or adjusting spice levels to suit your taste! Enjoy creating this delicious dish!

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Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a vibrant and delicious dish that brings the flavors of Mexican street corn right to your table. This bowl features juicy marinated chicken, sweet charred corn, fluffy rice, and a creamy sauce that ties everything together. Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is not only easy to make but also highly customizable. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying a cozy family meal, each bite will leave you craving more. Add your favorite toppings for an extra burst of flavor and texture!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 ½ cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• ¼ cup cotija cheese, crumbled
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons mayo
• 1 tablespoon lime juice

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Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken with olive oil, spices, salt, and lime juice for at least 15 minutes.
2. Cook the marinated chicken in a grill pan over medium-high heat for 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
3. In the same pan, char the corn with butter for 3–5 minutes.
4. Mix sour cream, mayo, lime juice, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper to create the creamy sauce.
5. Assemble your bowl with rice as the base followed by sliced chicken, charred corn, sauce drizzle, and toppings.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 560
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 65g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: Allow chicken to marinate longer for deeper flavor. Use fresh corn for enhanced sweetness; if using frozen or canned corn, char it to deepen flavor. Customize with toppings like avocado or jalapeños to suit your taste.