Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe

There's nothing quite like the vibrant flavors of a Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl to bring a touch of summer to your table, no matter the season. This recipe combines juicy, seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy, zesty street corn for a meal that's as satisfying as it is colorful.

this Recipe

I first whipped up this dish after craving the bold, smoky flavors of Mexican street corn paired with a hearty base. It's now a staple in our home, loved for its comforting yet exciting mix of textures and tastes. Let's dive in and see why this might become your new favorite go-to meal.

Why You'll Love This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Get ready to fall head over heels for this vibrant and flavorful dish. It’s not just a meal; it’s a full sensory experience that will have you coming back for more.

First off, this recipe is a time-saver. With just 30 minutes of cooking, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick but still crave something fresh and homemade.

It’s a budget-friendly option that uses simple ingredients like rice, chicken, and canned corn, making it accessible and easy to prepare without breaking the bank.

The combination of flavors and textures is truly unbeatable. You’ve got tender chicken, creamy street corn, and fluffy rice, all brought together with a tangy lime crema that adds a pop of freshness.

And let’s not forget its versatility. This dish can be customized to suit your preferences—spice it up, make it vegetarian, or add extra toppings like avocado or salsa for a personalized touch.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl lies in its fresh yet straightforward ingredients. Each element contributes to the harmony of flavors and textures that make this dish a standout.

Chicken: For the protein, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal. They’re juicy, flavorful, and less prone to drying out during cooking. However, chicken breasts or even pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can work in a pinch.

Rice: A fluffy bed of white or brown rice forms the foundation of this bowl. For a nutty twist, you could use quinoa or cauliflower rice as a lighter alternative.

Corn: Sweet corn is the star of the show here. While fresh-off-the-cob corn is unbeatable, canned or frozen corn works wonderfully and saves time. Look for fire-roasted varieties for an added smoky kick.

Cotija Cheese: This crumbly, salty cheese is a traditional topping for street corn and lends a creamy, tangy bite to the dish. If you can’t find cotija, feta cheese is a great substitute.

Lime Crema: A simple blend of sour cream, lime juice, and a touch of garlic powder creates a luscious sauce that ties everything together. For a healthier version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

No special equipment is needed for this recipe—just a large skillet, a pot for the rice, and your favorite cutting board.

How To Make This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Creating this bowl of deliciousness is simpler than you think. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by cooking your rice. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your rice according to the package instructions. Fluff it with a fork when done and set it aside, covered, to keep warm.

While the rice cooks, prepare the chicken. Season your chicken thighs with a blend of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let it rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

In the same skillet, make the street corn mixture. Add a touch more olive oil, followed by the corn. Sauté until it’s lightly charred, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and cotija cheese, creating a creamy and tangy street corn base.

Assemble your bowls. Start with a scoop of rice, followed by the sliced chicken. Top with a generous spoonful of street corn. Drizzle the lime crema over the top and garnish with chopped cilantro, extra cotija, and a squeeze of fresh lime.

From start to finish, this dish takes about 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a quick and satisfying meal.

Storage Options

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is just as good the next day, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.

Refrigerator: Store the components separately in airtight containers. The chicken and rice will stay fresh for up to 3 days, while the street corn mixture can last up to 2 days.

Freezer: While the rice and chicken freeze well, the street corn mixture is best enjoyed fresh due to the creamy components. If you plan to freeze, skip the crema and cheese until reheating.

Reheating: Warm the chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep them moist. Add the street corn and lime crema fresh to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable, so feel free to get creative and make it your own.

For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños to the street corn mixture or sprinkle on some cayenne pepper.

Looking for a vegetarian option? Replace the chicken with black beans or roasted sweet potatoes for a hearty plant-based alternative.

To keep things low-carb, swap the rice for cauliflower rice or shredded lettuce to create a flavorful salad bowl.

For an extra layer of flavor, try marinating the chicken in a blend of lime juice, garlic, and your favorite hot sauce before cooking.

Craving more toppings? Avocado slices, pickled onions, or a handful of crushed tortilla chips make great additions to this already flavorful dish.

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures, perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and let it become a beloved staple in your kitchen too!

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