Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a vibrant and satisfying dish that brings the flavors of Mexican street food right to your kitchen. This recipe features juicy grilled chicken, smoky charred corn, and fluffy rice topped with a zesty lime crema. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or planning for meal prep, this bowl is both delicious and versatile. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how it caters to all occasions!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to Prepare: Whip up this flavorful bowl in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Flavor Explosion: The combination of grilled chicken, smoky corn, and zesty crema delivers a delightful burst of flavors.
  • Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
  • Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is nutritious without sacrificing taste.
  • Great for Meal Prep: Make several servings ahead of time for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools will make preparing your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl easier and more efficient. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Importance of Each Tool

  • Skillet: Ideal for sautéing corn quickly while achieving that perfect char.
  • Mixing bowl: Essential for making the lime crema smoothly without splatter.
  • Measuring cups: Help ensure accurate ingredient proportions for the best flavor balance.

Ingredients

A flavorful and satisfying bowl loaded with juicy grilled chicken, smoky street-style corn, fluffy rice, and a zesty lime crema. This vibrant dish brings together Mexican-inspired flavors for a quick dinner or meal prep idea!

For the Base

  • 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cilantro-lime rice)
  • 2 chicken breasts (grilled and sliced)

For the Corn Mixture

  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Toppings

  • 1/2 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

For the Lime Crema

  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

How to Make Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Step 1: Sauté the Corn

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and sauté the corn kernels for 3-4 minutes until lightly charred. Season with chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Lime Crema

In a small mixing bowl, combine sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, garlic powder, and salt to create your lime crema. Taste it and adjust the lime juice if necessary.

Step 3: Assemble Your Bowl

Start with a base of cooked rice in each bowl. Layer on the grilled chicken slices followed by the charred corn mixture. Then add black beans, diced tomatoes, red onion, and cotija cheese.

Step 4: Drizzle & Garnish

Generously drizzle your homemade lime crema over each assembled bowl. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an extra pop of color.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve immediately while everything is warm and enjoy your delicious Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl!

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Taco Style

  • Use small tortillas to create mini tacos filled with the components of the bowl, perfect for a fun, handheld option.

Salad Bowl

  • Replace rice with mixed greens for a lighter version. Top with the same ingredients for a fresh and crunchy salad.

Burrito Bowl

  • Add more rice and beans to create a hearty burrito bowl. Include avocado slices for extra creaminess.

Family Style

  • Serve the ingredients separately on a large platter, allowing everyone to build their own bowls according to their preferences.

Meal Prep

  • Prepare individual bowls in advance. Store in airtight containers for a quick grab-and-go lunch or dinner option throughout the week.

How to Perfect Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Creating the ultimate Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is all about balance and flavor. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is perfect every time.

  • Choose quality chicken: Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for juicier and more flavorful results.
  • Opt for fresh corn: If possible, use fresh corn kernels as they provide better texture and sweetness compared to frozen or canned.
  • Customize spice levels: Adjust the chili powder and smoked paprika amounts based on your heat preference; you can always add more later!
  • Make it colorful: Include a variety of toppings like diced peppers or avocado to enhance both flavor and visual appeal.
  • Experiment with grains: Try using different types of rice like quinoa or cauliflower rice for added nutrition or flavor variations.
  • Serve immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve your bowls right after assembling them while everything is warm and fresh.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Pairing side dishes with your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

  1. Guacamole
    A creamy avocado dip that complements the flavors of the bowl perfectly. Serve it with tortilla chips for crunch.
  2. Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
    Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, lime, and chili powder adds an authentic touch.
  3. Pico de Gallo
    Fresh tomato salsa made with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice provides a zesty kick.
  4. Chips and Salsa
    Crunchy tortilla chips paired with your favorite salsa make for a classic appetizer or side dish.
  5. Black Bean Salad
    A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and lime dressing offers a protein-rich complement to the main dish.
  6. Cilantro Lime Rice
    Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime enhances the flavors of your bowl while adding extra texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can ensure your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl turns out delicious every time. Here are some pitfalls to be aware of:

  • Skipping the seasoning – Failing to season the corn properly can lead to bland flavors. Always add spices like chili powder and cumin for that authentic taste.
  • Overcooking the chicken – Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Aim for juicy grilled chicken by monitoring cooking times closely.
  • Using cold ingredients – Starting with cold ingredients can affect the dish’s overall warmth and flavor integration. Allow ingredients like beans or corn to reach room temperature before assembling.
  • Neglecting freshness – Using old or stale produce can compromise flavor. Always choose fresh corn, tomatoes, and herbs for a vibrant dish.
  • Not adjusting lime crema – Lime crema is key for balancing flavors. Adjust lime juice based on your taste preference to achieve the perfect zing.

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Keep components (chicken, corn, rice) separated if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

  • Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
  • Make sure everything is cooled before sealing to prevent ice crystals.

Reheating Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread on a baking sheet and heat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes until hot.
  • Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?

A Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a flavorful meal featuring grilled chicken, smoky corn, fluffy rice, and zesty lime crema, inspired by Mexican street food.

How do I customize my Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?

You can customize your bowl by adding different proteins like shrimp or tofu, swapping out rice for quinoa, or adding avocados and jalapeños for extra flavor.

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

Yes! This bowl is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the components in advance and assemble them just before serving.

What type of rice works best for this recipe?

While any cooked rice will work, cilantro-lime rice adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Final Thoughts

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is not only vibrant but also versatile. It’s perfect for quick dinners or meal prep options throughout the week. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings and ingredients; you can’t go wrong with this delightful dish!

Print
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Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl


  • Author: Cecilia
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Introducing the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, a vibrant and satisfying dish that brings the bold flavors of Mexican street food right to your table. This recipe features succulent grilled chicken, smoky charred corn, and fluffy rice drizzled with a zesty lime crema, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or meal prep.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • chili powder
  • smoked paprika
  • cumin
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • black beans
  • diced red onion
  • diced tomatoes
  • cotija cheese
  • cilantro
  • sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • lime juice
  • garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté corn for 3-4 minutes until lightly charred; season with spices.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, garlic powder, and salt to make the lime crema.
  3. Assemble bowls starting with cooked rice as the base; layer grilled chicken slices and charred corn mixture.
  4. Top with black beans, diced tomatoes, red onion, and cotija cheese.
  5. Drizzle lime crema over each bowl and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 19g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 68g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Customize by adding avocado or swapping grains like quinoa for added nutrition. For meal prep convenience, prepare components ahead of time and assemble just before serving.

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Cecilia

Pro Chef & Blogger

Welcome to my culinary corner, where passion meets the plate! I’m a chef with a love for creating delicious and inspiring dishes. Here, I’ll share my best recipes, tips, and tricks to help you bring a taste of magic into your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find something to ignite your passion for cooking. Join me on this flavorful journey and let’s make every meal memorable. Happy cooking.

Cecilia