Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Experience a delightful fusion of flavors with the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. This dish combines tender, spiced chicken with creamy, tangy street corn atop a bed of fluffy rice, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes reminiscent of Mexican street food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bowl offers a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and refreshing. The smoky grilled chicken pairs perfectly with the sweet and spicy notes of the street corn, while the lime-infused rice adds a zesty foundation. It’s a versatile dish suitable for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings, and it’s easily customizable to suit various taste preferences.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1 lime

For the Street Corn:

• 2 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears) or frozen corn, thawed
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
• 2 green onions, diced
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1/2 cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups water or chicken broth
• Zest and juice of 1 lime
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Sliced avocado
• Additional chopped cilantro
• Lime wedges
• Sliced jalapeños
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken:

• In a small bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and lime juice.
• Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Marinate for at least 15 minutes, preferably up to an hour, in the refrigerator.

2. Prepare the Rice:

• Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
• In a medium saucepan, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the rinsed rice and a pinch of salt. Stir once, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
• Remove from heat. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in lime zest, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Keep covered until ready to serve.

3. Cook the Chicken:

• Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
• Remove chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

4. Prepare the Street Corn:

• In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to char slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
• Add diced jalapeño and green onions to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until softened.
• Remove from heat and transfer the mixture to a large bowl. Stir in mayonnaise, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, lime juice, and crumbled cotija or feta cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Assemble the Bowls:

• Divide the cilantro-lime rice among four bowls.
• Top each with sliced grilled chicken and a generous scoop of the street corn mixture.
• Add desired toppings such as sliced avocado, additional cilantro, lime wedges, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Variations

• Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken with grilled shrimp, steak, or tofu for a different protein option.
• Grain Base: Use brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice as a base instead of white rice for added nutrition or a low-carb alternative.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more or less jalapeño, or by incorporating a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
• Cheese Options: If cotija or feta cheese isn’t available, try using grated Parmesan or a Mexican cheese blend.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields 4 servings.
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 50 minutes

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Storage: Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken and corn mixture in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. For best results, reheat the rice separately to maintain its texture. Assemble the bowls just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative or additional olive oil. Use dairy-free mayonnaise and replace the cotija or feta cheese with a dairy-free cheese or omit it entirely.

Can I prepare components of this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rice, marinate and cook the chicken, and make the street corn mixture in advance. Store each component separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat as needed and assemble the bowls with your desired toppings.

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

If you prefer to avoid mayonnaise, you can substitute it with sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a dairy-free yogurt alternative for a similar creamy texture.

Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?

To increase the spiciness, retain the seeds in the jalapeño, add more chili powder, or include a pinch of cayenne pepper in the marinade and street corn mixture. Additionally, topping the bowl with sliced fresh chilies or a drizzle of hot sauce can add extra heat.

Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen corn?

Yes, canned corn can be used as a substitute. Drain and rinse the canned corn before adding it to the skillet. Since canned corn is already cooked, sauté it just until it’s heated through and slightly charred.

What other toppings can I add to customize my bowl?

Feel free to add toppings such as black beans, pico de gallo, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.

How can I make the rice more flavorful?

Cooking the rice in chicken broth instead of water adds depth of flavor. Incorporating aromatics like minced garlic or onion while cooking can also enhance the taste. Stirring in fresh herbs, lime zest, and juice after cooking brightens the flavor profile

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