Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

A Flavorful and Satisfying Meal

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl combines the bold, tangy flavors of Mexican street corn with tender, seasoned chicken and fluffy rice for a satisfying and well-balanced meal. This dish brings together smoky, creamy, and zesty elements, making it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner or a meal prep staple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Flavor: A mix of chili-lime chicken, roasted corn, and a creamy, cheesy sauce.
• Well-Balanced Meal: Includes protein, carbs, and healthy fats in one dish.
• Customizable: Easy to adjust spice levels, add more veggies, or swap out ingredients.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well for quick, delicious meals throughout the week.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1 lime

For the Street Corn

• 2 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• ¼ cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro

For the Rice Bowl

• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• ½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• ½ avocado, sliced
• ¼ cup chopped red onion
• ¼ cup diced tomatoes
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

Optional Toppings

• Sliced jalapeños
• Hot sauce
• Sour cream
• Extra cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and lime juice.
2. Coat the chicken with the marinade and let it sit for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for extra flavor).
3. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat and cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked (165°F internal temperature).
4. Remove from heat, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice or dice.

2. Make the Street Corn

1. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat and add the corn.
2. Season with chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly charred.
3. Remove from heat and mix in mayonnaise, crumbled cotija cheese, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.

3. Assemble the Bowls

1. Divide the cooked rice into serving bowls.
2. Top each bowl with sliced chicken, street corn, black beans, avocado, red onion, tomatoes, and cilantro.
3. Add optional toppings like jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra cheese.

4. Serve and Enjoy

• Drizzle with additional lime juice or sour cream if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors!

Variations and Substitutions

• Make it Spicier: Add diced jalapeños to the street corn or sprinkle extra chili powder on the chicken.
• Use a Different Protein: Try shrimp, steak, or tofu instead of chicken.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap rice for cauliflower rice or shredded lettuce.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free cheese or skip it entirely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in a skillet over low heat. Add fresh avocado and toppings after reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get a smoky flavor in the corn without grilling?

You can use a cast-iron skillet over high heat to char the corn, or add a pinch of smoked paprika to enhance the smoky taste.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Yes! Simply season pre-cooked chicken with a little lime juice and chili powder before adding it to the bowl.

What’s the best rice to use?

Jasmine or basmati rice works well, but brown rice or quinoa are great for a healthier option.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Store all components separately and assemble just before serving for the best texture.

Is there a way to make this dish vegan?

Yes! Replace the chicken with marinated tofu and use vegan mayo and cheese alternatives.

How can I make this meal lower in calories?

Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice, skip the cheese, and reduce the mayo in the street corn.

What other toppings go well with this bowl?

Pico de gallo, pickled onions, salsa verde, or crushed tortilla chips all add great texture and flavor.

Can I freeze this dish?

The chicken and rice freeze well, but the street corn and fresh toppings are best added fresh after thawing.

What kind of cheese is best for street corn?

Cotija is traditional, but feta or Parmesan can work as substitutes.

Can I serve this as a wrap instead of a bowl?

Absolutely! Use a large tortilla and roll everything into a burrito for a delicious twist.

Conclusion

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the vibrant taste of Mexican street food to your table. It’s easy to customize, meal-prep friendly, and perfect for a healthy, satisfying meal. Try it today and enjoy every bite!

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