Flavor-Packed Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

A Burst of Flavor in Every Bite

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a delicious fusion of Mexican street corn flavors and hearty, protein-packed chicken, all served over a bed of fluffy rice. The combination of creamy, tangy, and smoky flavors makes this dish a satisfying meal for lunch or dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Full of Flavor: Smoky grilled chicken, zesty lime, creamy cotija cheese, and sweet corn make for an irresistible combination.
• Easy to Make: This dish comes together in under 45 minutes, making it a great weeknight dinner option.
• Customizable: You can adjust the spice level, swap proteins, or use different types of rice to suit your preferences.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Make a batch and enjoy flavorful meals throughout the week.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

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

For the Street Corn Mixture:

• 1½ cups corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• Juice of ½ lime

For the Rice Bowl:

• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• 1 avocado, sliced
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
• 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional for heat)
• Additional lime wedges for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Rub the spice blend onto both sides of the chicken.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and squeeze fresh lime juice over the chicken. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
4. Grill or pan-sear the chicken over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
5. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.

2. Make the Street Corn Mixture

1. If using fresh corn, grill it until slightly charred and cut the kernels off the cob. If using frozen or canned corn, sauté in a dry skillet until lightly charred.
2. In a bowl, combine corn, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, cilantro, chili powder, and lime juice. Mix well and set aside.

3. Assemble the Rice Bowls

1. Divide the cooked rice between serving bowls.
2. Top each bowl with sliced chicken.
3. Spoon the street corn mixture over the chicken.
4. Garnish with avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeño (if using).
5. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.

Recipe Variations

• Protein Swap: Use shrimp, tofu, or grilled steak instead of chicken.
• Grain Options: Substitute rice with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or farro for a different texture.
• Extra Heat: Add a drizzle of hot sauce or sprinkle some cayenne for an extra kick.
• Dairy-Free: Skip the cotija cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Microwave for 1-2 minutes or reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Store all ingredients separately for easy meal prep and assembly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning, mix chopped jalapeños into the corn mixture, or drizzle hot sauce on top.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Simply omit the cotija cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

What type of rice works best?

White rice, brown rice, jasmine rice, or even cauliflower rice work well for this bowl.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Absolutely! Cook the chicken, rice, and corn mixture in advance and store them separately. Assemble when ready to eat.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise in the corn mixture?

Greek yogurt or sour cream work well as substitutes for mayo.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Yes! If you’re short on time, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.

How do I get a smoky flavor without a grill?

Use smoked paprika in the seasoning and char the corn in a dry skillet for a smoky effect.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all your seasonings and ingredients are gluten-free.

What other toppings can I add?

Pickled onions, black beans, roasted red peppers, or a dollop of salsa would all be great additions.

Can I serve this cold?

Yes! This dish works well as a cold rice bowl, especially on hot days.

Conclusion

This Flavor-Packed Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a vibrant, satisfying meal loaded with textures and bold flavors. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s a guaranteed hit. Try it today and enjoy a delicious fusion of street corn magic with a protein-rich, hearty bowl!

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