This Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, sweet corn, and fluffy rice. It’s colorful and packed with flavor, making it a hit at the dinner table!
I love how quick this dish comes together—just toss everything in a bowl and enjoy! Plus, it’s perfect for left-overs, if you can keep any around! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: I recommend using jasmine or basmati rice for their fluffy texture and aroma. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can swap it for brown rice or quinoa, which adds extra fiber.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook and juicy. If you’re in a hurry, pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken works great for a faster meal. You could even use tofu for a vegetarian version!
Corn: Street-style corn is essential for that fresh sweetness. You can use frozen or canned corn if fresh isn’t available. If you want a twist, try adding black beans for extra protein and texture.
Cheese: Cotija cheese is traditional and adds a nice salty flavor. Feta is a fine substitute, or you can skip the cheese altogether for a lighter dish.
Lime: Fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors. If you’re out of limes, lemon juice will work in a pinch.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken well can be a challenge, but it’s all about timing and temperature. Here’s how to get juicy and flavorful chicken:
- First, pat the chicken dry, helps the spices stick and promotes browning.
- Use medium heat so the chicken cooks evenly. Cooking too fast can lead to dryness.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
Trust me, taking these steps makes a big difference in your chicken’s flavor and tenderness! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably jasmine or basmati)
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup street-style corn (can use frozen or canned corn, or fresh corn kernels)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese
- 1 small lime, juiced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
- Hot sauce or chipotle sauce, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 15 minutes to cook, so you can have this delicious meal ready in about 25 minutes total! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal at home.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the chicken:
First, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels; this helps them brown nicely. In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Then, rub this spice mix all over the chicken evenly.
2. Cook the chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. To check if it’s fully cooked, cut into the thickest part—the juices should run clear. Once done, remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
3. Prepare the street corn:
While the chicken is resting, grab a small bowl. In it, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Then, fold in the cooked corn kernels until they are nicely coated in the creamy dressing.
4. Assemble the bowls:
To put everything together, divide the cooked rice into serving bowls. Top each bowl with the sliced chicken, street corn mixture, crumbled cheese, and chopped cilantro. If you like, add some avocado slices on top for extra creaminess.
5. Serve:
Finally, drizzle your favorite hot sauce or chipotle sauce over the bowls if you’re feeling spicy! Serve immediately while everything is warm and enjoy your delicious Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute the Chicken for Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use tofu for a vegetarian option, shrimp for a seafood twist, or even pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein you choose.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through or heat gently on the stove. Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain texture.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
You can prepare the street corn mixture and cook the chicken a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. Just reheat the chicken and corn before serving, then assemble the bowls with freshly cooked rice!
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt. You can also blend avocado for a creamy texture without the extra calories!
