Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe

Craving a delicious, flavorful, and filling meal? Look no further than this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. With juicy grilled chicken, smoky charred corn, creamy avocado, and a zesty lime finish, this dish brings all the flavors of summer in one hearty bowl. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or meal prep idea, this recipe is easy to make and sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Flavorful: The combination of smoky chicken, charred corn, and tangy lime creates an irresistible flavor profile.
2. Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, from choosing the rice to adding your favorite toppings.
3. Healthy & Balanced: With protein-rich chicken, fresh vegetables, and complex carbs from rice, this bowl is as nutritious as it is tasty.
4. Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
5. Versatile: You can swap out ingredients—try adding black beans, swapping chicken for shrimp, or using quinoa instead of rice for a fresh twist.

Ingredients

Chicken

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

Street Corn

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

Rice Bowl

• Cooked white or brown rice
• Sliced avocado (optional)
• Fresh lime wedges for garnish

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add more veggies, like bell peppers, onions, or roasted sweet potatoes.
• Spicy Kick: Add some chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the corn mixture for extra heat.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
• Rice Alternative: Instead of white or brown rice, use quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even couscous for a unique twist.

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 sit for at least 15 minutes.
• Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, until fully cooked and juices run clear.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly.

Step 2: Make the Street Corn

• If using fresh corn, grill the cobs for about 10 minutes until charred, turning occasionally for even cooking.
• If using frozen corn, sauté it in butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until golden and heated through.
• In a bowl, combine the cooked corn with mayonnaise, crumbled Cotija or feta cheese, lime juice, chili powder, and chopped cilantro. Stir well.

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 the street corn mixture.
• If desired, add sliced avocado, a squeeze of lime, and a sprinkle of cilantro for extra freshness and flavor.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the rice bowl immediately, garnished with fresh lime wedges on the side for an extra zing.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Marinate the Chicken: If you have more time, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to an hour for deeper flavor.
• Grilling the Corn: For the best street corn, ensure your grill is hot enough to achieve that signature charred flavor.
• Add Toppings: Feel free to add additional toppings like salsa, sour cream, or even a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce to customize your bowl.
• Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken.

How to Serve

Serve the street corn chicken rice bowl as a satisfying lunch or dinner. Pair it with a side of chips, a refreshing drink like iced tea, or a simple side salad. You can also serve it as a build-your-own style meal, allowing everyone to assemble their bowls with their favorite toppings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

• In the Fridge: Store leftover chicken, street corn, and rice separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, microwave the chicken and rice separately until warmed through. Heat the corn mixture on the stove or in the microwave.

Freezing

• Freezing the Components: You can freeze the grilled chicken and corn separately. The rice can also be frozen in a separate container. When ready to eat, defrost and reheat the components in the microwave or on the stove.
• Freezing the Whole Bowl: If you plan to freeze the entire bowl, it’s best to assemble the bowl without avocado, as it doesn’t freeze well. Freeze the rice, chicken, and street corn mixture together, then add fresh avocado when serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work perfectly in this recipe and will add extra juiciness and flavor.

2. Can I make the corn mixture ahead of time?

Yes, the corn mixture can be made up to a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just stir in fresh cilantro before serving.

3. Can I substitute the mayonnaise in the corn mixture?

Yes, you can substitute sour cream, Greek yogurt, or even a dairy-free option like avocado for a different flavor.

4. What other vegetables can I add to the rice bowl?

You can add roasted vegetables, sautéed peppers, onions, or even grilled zucchini for more variety.

5. Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, frozen corn is a great alternative to fresh corn and can be sautéed directly in the skillet.

6. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add some chopped jalapeños to the street corn mixture or drizzle with hot sauce to add a spicy kick.

7. Can I use quinoa instead of rice?

Yes, quinoa would be a great substitution for rice, offering more protein and a slightly nutty flavor.

8. How do I ensure the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

9. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, omit the chicken and add black beans or grilled vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.

10. How can I add more flavor to the rice?

Try seasoning the rice with a little lime zest, garlic powder, or a pinch of cumin for extra flavor.

Conclusion

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, it’s sure to become a favorite. The combination of juicy chicken, charred corn, and fresh toppings makes this bowl a perfect balance of texture and taste. Plus, it’s easy to customize and make your own. Enjoy!

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