Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl: A Delicious and Easy Meal

Are you craving a meal that combines the zesty flavors of Mexican street corn with tender chicken and fluffy rice? Look no further than this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl.

This dish is not only packed with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

• Flavorful Fusion: Combines the best elements of Mexican street corn with juicy chicken and rice.
• Balanced Flavors: The lime, chili powder, and Cotija cheese create a perfect blend of tang and spice.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like avocado, black beans, or extra cilantro.
• Quick and Easy: Simple to make yet feels like a gourmet meal.
• Ideal for Meal Prep: Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal effort.

Equipment Needed

• Skillet
• Wooden Cutting Board
• Chef Knife
• Mixing Bowls

Ingredients and Substitutions

For the Chicken

• Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless): Can be substituted with chicken breasts.
• Lime juice: Adds freshness; lemon juice can be used as an alternative.
• Avocado oil: Substitute with olive oil or vegetable oil if needed.
• Chili powder: Adds a smoky flavor; paprika can be used if preferred.
• Garlic powder: Or fresh garlic cloves, optional, for seasoning.
• Salt and black pepper

For the Street Corn Topping

• Sweet Corn kernels (grilled, if possible): Fresh or frozen.
• Red onion, thinly sliced: Optional, adds crunch.
• Sour cream: Can be substituted with Greek yogurt.
• Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess; can be omitted or replaced with extra sour cream.
• Cotija cheese: Substitute with feta or queso fresco.
• Chili powder: Adds flavor to the corn mixture.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste.
• Lime wedges: For extra zest.

For the Rice and Assembly

• Cooked Jasmine rice: Use white, brown, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Fresh cilantro: Optional, or substitute with parsley or green onions for garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken for Flavor

1. Season the Chicken:
   • In a bowl, mix lime juice, avocado oil, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
   • Marinate in the fridge for at least 15-30 minutes to enhance flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated chicken thighs.
   • Cook each side for about 8-10 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
   • Remove the chicken, let it rest, then slice it into chunks or strips.
3. Prepare the Street Corn Topping:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine grilled corn, thinly sliced red onion, sour cream, mayonnaise, crumbled Cotija cheese, and a sprinkle of chili powder.
   • Add salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lime juice to taste, mixing everything well.

4. Prepare the Rice:
   • If using cold or leftover jasmine rice, add a splash of water and reheat in the microwave or in a pan over low heat until it’s warm and fluffy. Stir occasionally to ensure even reheating.
5. Assemble the Bowls:
   • Start with a base of rice in each bowl.
   • Top with sliced chicken, a generous spoonful of the street corn mixture, extra Cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro.
   • Place a lime wedge on the side for added zest.
6. Serve:
   • Serve warm and, if desired, give a final squeeze of lime over the top just before eating.

Top Tips

• Char the Corn: For deeper flavor, grill or cook the corn in a hot skillet until slightly charred. This adds a smoky taste that pairs well with the creamy toppings.
• Use Fresh Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice in both the marinade and the street corn topping brightens the dish and balances the richness of the sour cream and mayo.
• Reheat Rice with Water: When reheating rice, add a splash of water to keep it fluffy and prevent it from drying out.
• Add Extra Heat: For a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeño or a sprinkle of cayenne to the street corn topping.

Extra Topping Ideas

• Diced Avocado or Guacamole: Adds creaminess and a rich flavor that balances the smoky and spicy elements in the bowl.
• Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro add a bright, juicy element.
• Sliced Jalapeños: Fresh or pickled jalapeños bring heat and a nice tang.
• Shredded Lettuce: Adds crunch and a refreshing contrast to the warm rice and chicken.
• Radish Slices: Thinly sliced radishes bring a mild peppery crunch.
• Sliced Green Onions: Adds a mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• Hot Sauce or Sriracha: A drizzle of hot sauce or sriracha adds extra spice for those who love heat.

FAQs

Conclusion

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is the perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a go-to meal for any occasion.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick and delicious dinner, this recipe has you covered. Enjoy!

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