If you’re craving a meal that brings together the vibrant flavors of street food with the comfort of a hearty rice bowl, the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is the perfect choice. This dish is a delightful combination of tender grilled chicken, sweet and smoky street corn, and zesty lime-infused rice. It’s a complete meal that packs a punch of flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a symphony of textures and flavors. The smoky, charred corn adds a sweet crunch, while the juicy chicken provides a savory contrast. The creamy, tangy dressing ties everything together, making this dish a family favorite. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Street Corn:
- 2 ears of corn, husked
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
For the Rice Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the chicken breasts with the spice mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
2. Grill the Corn
- Brush the corn with melted butter and sprinkle with smoked paprika.
- Place the corn on the grill, turning occasionally, until it’s charred and tender, about 10 minutes.
- Remove the corn from the grill and let it cool slightly. Once cooled, cut the kernels off the cob.
3. Assemble the Street Corn
- In a mixing bowl, combine the grilled corn kernels with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro.
- Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and stir to combine.
4. Build the Rice Bowl
- In a large bowl, start with a base of cooked rice.
- Drizzle lime juice over the rice and mix in the black beans.
- Top the rice with the sliced chicken, street corn mixture, avocado slices, and red onion.
- Garnish with extra cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Tips for Making the Best Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
- Make it Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
- Use Leftovers: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover grilled chicken or rice.
- Swap the Protein: Feel free to substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp, tofu, or steak for a different twist.
Nutritional Information
This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s high in protein from the chicken and beans, rich in fiber from the corn and rice, and loaded with healthy fats from the avocado. It’s a balanced meal that will keep you satisfied and energized.
Conclusion
The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves a flavorful, satisfying meal. It brings the best of street food into your kitchen, offering a delicious and nutritious dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of summer in every bite!
Serving and Storage Tips for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a Fresh Salad: Complement your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl with a simple side salad, such as a cucumber and tomato salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, for a refreshing contrast.
- Top with Crunchy Toppings: Add some extra crunch by topping the bowl with crushed tortilla chips, toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds), or crispy fried onions.
- Serve with Salsas and Sauces: Enhance the flavors by serving the bowl with a side of salsa, guacamole, or a drizzle of chipotle mayo for added richness and spice.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the components (chicken, rice, corn, and toppings) separate if possible to maintain their freshness and texture.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If the street corn mixture contains mayonnaise, it’s best to reheat it separately and add it to the bowl after warming. Avocado is best added fresh to maintain its texture and flavor.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken and rice separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. However, it’s best to prepare the corn mixture and fresh toppings just before serving for optimal taste.
Pro Tip for Meal Prep
- Prepare in Advance: Cook a large batch of rice and chicken at the beginning of the week, and assemble the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls as needed. This makes for a quick, easy, and delicious lunch or dinner option during busy days. Just store the prepared ingredients separately, and combine them when ready to eat.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy the vibrant flavors of the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl even on your busiest days!
1. Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn for the street corn mixture?
Yes, you can use frozen corn if fresh corn isn’t available. Simply thaw the frozen corn and sauté it in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s slightly charred. Then, proceed with the recipe as usual. While fresh corn provides a slightly sweeter and more authentic flavor, frozen corn is a convenient and tasty alternative.
2. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can make a vegetarian version by substituting the grilled chicken with grilled or sautéed tofu, tempeh, or even roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. The street corn and other toppings will remain the same, making it a delicious and satisfying vegetarian meal.
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, to make this dish dairy-free, you can replace the cotija cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative or simply omit it. For the mayonnaise in the street corn mixture, use a dairy-free or vegan mayonnaise. The rest of the ingredients are naturally dairy-free, so this adjustment will allow you to enjoy a lactose-free version of the recipe.
4. What can I use instead of cotija cheese if I can’t find it?
If cotija cheese isn’t available, you can substitute it with feta cheese, which has a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor. Parmesan cheese or queso fresco are also good alternatives that will work well in this recipe. Each of these options will give the dish a slightly different but equally delicious taste.