I've always loved the bold flavors of street corn, so I decided to mix it with grilled chicken and rice for a meal that's both hearty and quick to make. The creamy sauce, smoky spices, and fresh toppings come together in a way that feels like a treat but is still simple enough for a busy weeknight. If you're looking for a dish that's packed with flavor and easy to customize, this one's worth a try.
What You'll Love About This Recipe
This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the best of Mexican street food with a hearty, satisfying meal.
- Bold Flavors: Enjoy the perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and tangy tastes from charred corn, creamy sauce, and zesty lime.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it's perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
- Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs while keeping it delicious.
Recipe
This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl combines the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn with tender chicken and fluffy rice for a satisfying meal. It's a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors that's easy to prepare and packed with freshness.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: sliced avocado, hot sauce
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper to create the sauce.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the corn kernels until slightly charred, about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, grilled chicken, and charred corn.
- Drizzle the sauce over the mixture and toss gently to coat.
- Top with crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and optional avocado slices.
- Serve immediately with a lime wedge on the side.
Notes:
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with grilled tofu or black beans.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder.
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serving: 4
Calories: ~450 per serving
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Equipment
To prepare the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, you'll need a few essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient. Here's what you'll require:
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Mixing bowls (small and medium)
- Whisk or fork
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs or spatula
- Serving bowls or plates
Nutrition
This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a balanced meal packed with essential nutrients. It combines protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs for a satisfying dish.
- High in protein from chicken and black beans.
- Rich in fiber from corn and black beans.
- Contains healthy fats from avocado and olive oil.
- Provides essential vitamins like vitamin C and B6.
- Low in added sugars, making it a wholesome choice.
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love serving my street corn chicken rice bowl with a fresh salad, like a simple green mix or a tangy citrus slaw, to keep things light. Grilled veggies, such as zucchini or bell peppers, add a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the dish. And don't forget a creamy avocado dip or warm tortilla chips for that extra bit of fun!
Fresh Salad Options
Since a fresh salad can really brighten up any meal, I love pairing my street corn chicken rice bowl with something crisp and colorful. A kale Caesar adds a creamy, crunchy contrast, while a tangy beet salad brings earthy sweetness that complements the dish's smoky flavors. Both options are light yet satisfying, balancing the bowl's richness and adding a pop of color to your plate.
Grilled Vegetable Sides
While fresh salads are a great way to add crunch and brightness to the street corn chicken rice bowl, grilled vegetables bring a smoky, charred flavor that pairs perfectly with the dish. I love tossing sliced charred zucchini and roasted peppers on the grill, letting them pick up that delicious caramelized edge. They're simple to make, add depth to the meal, and feel like a treat every time.
Creamy Avocado Dip
To take your street corn chicken rice bowl to the next level, a creamy avocado dip is the perfect complement. I love how the avocado benefits shine, adding healthy fats and a silky texture. For dip variations, I'll mix in lime juice, garlic, or cilantro for extra zing. It's so easy to whip up, and it pairs wonderfully with the bold flavors of the bowl. Trust me, it's a game-changer!
Warm Tortilla Chips
When I'm serving up a street corn chicken rice bowl, I always think about adding something crunchy to the mix, and warm tortilla chips are my go-to. These crispy snacks are perfect for scooping up creamy avocado dip or bolder, spicy dips. I love how they balance the bowl's rich flavors. Warming them just before serving makes them extra irresistible, and they're always a crowd-pleaser.
Citrusy Slaw Pairing
If you're looking for something fresh and zesty to complement the rich flavors of a street corn chicken rice bowl, a citrusy slaw is the way to go. I love tossing crunchy cabbage with a zesty dressing of lime juice, honey, and a splash of olive oil. The tangy marinade cuts through the dish's richness, adding a bright, invigorating bite. It's my go-to side for balance and texture!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh?
I've wandered through fields of corn in my mind, imagining its journey from farm to table. Yes, I've used frozen corn—its storage keeps summer alive, and thawing it gently brings back that golden warmth I crave.
Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
I'm not sure if this recipe includes gluten-free ingredients, but I'd recommend checking for gluten-free alternatives like tamari instead of soy sauce or ensuring the spices and corn don't contain additives. I'd double-check labels to confirm.
Can I Substitute Chicken With Tofu?
I'm wondering if I can swap chicken for tofu, exploring protein alternatives. Tofu's texture holds up well, absorbing flavors beautifully. It's a versatile choice, offering a plant-based twist while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying without missing a beat.
How Long Does It Take to Prepare?
The prep time's about 20 minutes—chopping, mixing, getting everything ready. The cooking duration's another 20, give or take. I usually finish the whole thing in under an hour if I'm focused.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Like a well-oiled machine, I can plan ahead with meal prep. I'd store components separately—rice, chicken, and toppings—in airtight containers. For storage tips, I'd keep sauces on the side to maintain freshness and texture.
