Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Let’s get cooking! Forget sad desk lunches – prepare yourself for a flavor explosion with this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. This isn’t your grandma’s rice bowl; this is a fiesta in a single serving, bursting with vibrant colors and tastes that will transport you straight to a sunny Mexican street corner. Imagine that first bite, the sweet corn kernels popping in your mouth, the tender chicken infused with smoky spices, all nestled in a bed of fluffy rice. It’s the perfect weeknight meal, so easy and quick.

This recipe is a tribute to my epic summer road trip, where I discovered the magic of street corn – and subsequently, the culinary genius of adapting it into a satisfying and healthy meal. Get ready for an adventure for your taste buds!

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl boasts many amazing qualities:

It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.

The flavor profile is a delightful mix of sweet, savory, and smoky.

The vibrant colors of the corn, chicken, and peppers make it visually appealing.

It’s incredibly versatile; feel free to add your favorite veggies!

Ingredients for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Chicken Breast Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for ease of cooking. Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Corn Fresh corn on the cob is ideal, but frozen kernels work perfectly too.

Rice Use long-grain white rice or brown rice, depending on your preference.

Bell Peppers A mix of colors adds visual appeal and flavor variations.

Red Onion Adds a nice bite and complements the sweetness of the corn.

Lime Juice Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the flavors and adds a tangy kick.

Chili Powder Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

Cumin Adds warmth and earthiness to the dish.

Olive Oil Use a high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.

Vegetable Broth Adds moisture and depth of flavor to the rice.

Agar-Agar Powder A plant-based alternative to gelatin, used to thicken the sauce if desired.

Cilantro Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Rice

First, cook the rice according to package directions using vegetable broth instead of water. While the rice cooks, season the chicken with chili powder, cumin, and salt. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, add the chopped bell peppers and red onion to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Sauté for another 3-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Step 3: Combine and Simmer

Add the cooked rice and corn to the skillet. Stir everything together gently to combine. If you want a slightly thicker sauce, whisk together a small amount of agar-agar powder with a little bit of cold water to form a slurry. Add the slurry to the skillet and stir constantly until thickened.

Step 4: Add Lime Juice and Cilantro

Finally, stir in the fresh lime juice and cilantro. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more chili powder or salt if desired.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl to bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with extra cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice, if you like.

This vibrant bowl is a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun, casual gathering. Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken until browned, then set aside. Cook the rice according to package directions. While the rice cooks, prepare the corn salsa and the sauce. Finally, combine everything in bowls for the ultimate Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for beef or turkey. Spice things up with extra chili powder or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Add black beans or avocado for extra creaminess and texture in your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain moisture.

Prepare the chicken: Marinate it for extra flavor. Use fresh corn for a superior sweetness. Don’t overcook the chicken or it’ll be dry.

I once made this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl for a potluck, and it vanished in minutes! Everyone raved about the vibrant flavors and satisfying textures.

The Recipe

: Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a culinary adventure. Imagine the satisfying crunch of perfectly charred corn, the juicy tenderness of seasoned chicken, and the creamy embrace of a cilantro-lime sauce all nestled in a bed of fluffy rice. This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl recipe is your ticket to a fiesta in a bowl, minus the messy cleanup (we’ve all been there!).

Ingredients

:

For the Chicken:

One pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes

One tablespoon olive oil

One teaspoon chili powder

Half teaspoon cumin

Half teaspoon smoked paprika

Quarter teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Corn Salsa:

Two cups fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears of corn)

Half cup red onion, finely chopped

Half cup red bell pepper, finely chopped

Quarter cup chopped cilantro

Juice of one lime

Quarter teaspoon salt

Quarter teaspoon black pepper

For the Cilantro-Lime Sauce:

Half cup mayonnaise (vegan mayonnaise works great!)

Quarter cup sour cream (vegan sour cream is a fantastic alternative)

Quarter cup chopped cilantro

Juice of one lime

Quarter teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice Bowl:

Two cups cooked rice (white or brown, your choice!)

Instructions

:

Step 1

: Preparing the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the cubed chicken with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated. This is where the magic starts. Let the chicken marinade for at least 15 minutes—the longer, the better! Trust me; your taste buds will thank you.

Step 2

: Sizzling the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure a good sear. The sizzle is your soundtrack to success.

Step 3

: Corn Salsa Creation

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the corn salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the corn kernels, red onion, red bell pepper, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix gently, letting the flavors mingle. This is your burst of freshness.

Step 4

: Creamy Cilantro-Lime Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (vegan or otherwise), sour cream (again, vegan options are fantastic), cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. The creamy sauce is the heart of this bowl.

Step 5

: Assembling the Masterpiece

Divide the cooked rice into bowls. Top with the seared chicken, corn salsa, and a generous dollop of the cilantro-lime sauce. Garnish with extra cilantro if you’re feeling fancy. And there you have it—your very own Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. Celebrate your culinary genius!

Tips for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Success

Use a cast iron skillet for that extra-crispy chicken sear. Don’t be shy with the lime juice; it brightens everything up. Let the flavors meld before serving; it enhances the overall taste.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prepare the chicken, corn salsa, and cilantro-lime sauce a day ahead and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the bowls just before serving.

Q: What kind of rice should I use?

A: Use your favorite rice—white, brown, long grain, or short grain. The choice is yours!

Q: Can I add other vegetables?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like diced avocado, black beans, or chopped jalapeños.

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s a testament to the joy of cooking and the satisfaction of creating something delicious and memorable. So go ahead, get cooking, and prepare to be amazed!

Conclusion for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and vibrant street corn salsa create a satisfying and flavorful meal. Its adaptability allows for diverse protein and spice preferences, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The simple steps and readily available ingredients make it an easy yet impressive dish to prepare, offering a delicious and convenient way to enjoy a healthy and tasty meal. Remember to adjust the spice level to your liking!

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FAQs

Can I make this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. You can cook the chicken and rice separately a day or two in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the chicken and rice, then toss everything together with the street corn salsa. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight, so making it ahead might even enhance the taste! Just remember to add the fresh cilantro and lime juice right before serving to maintain that vibrant freshness.

What can I substitute for the chicken in this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?

Feeling adventurous? You’re in luck! This recipe is surprisingly versatile. You could easily swap the chicken for beef, lamb, or even turkey. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, ensuring the protein is cooked thoroughly. For a vegetarian option, try using grilled halloumi cheese or even hearty roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. The possibilities are as endless as your imagination (and your spice rack!).

Is this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl spicy?

The spice level of this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is entirely up to you! The recipe provides a base level of heat from the chili powder, but you can easily adjust it. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it altogether. For those who like things fiery, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños for an extra kick. Remember, taste as you go and adjust the spice level to your personal preference. It’s your bowl, your rules!

How do I make the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl gluten-free?

Making this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl gluten-free is a piece of cake! Just ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in the marinade and the salsa. Also, check the labels of any other pre-made ingredients you might be using, like the chicken broth or spices, to make sure they are certified gluten-free. With a little extra attention to ingredients, you can easily enjoy this delicious and healthy meal even if you’re avoiding gluten. This ensures that everyone can savor this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl.