This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a fun mix of flavors! It features juicy chicken, sweet corn, and fluffy rice, all topped with creamy sauce and fresh herbs. Yum!
Every bite feels like a little fiesta in your mouth! 🎉 I love making this for a quick dinner, and it always puts a smile on my face (and my belly)!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: You can use either white or brown rice, depending on your preference. Brown rice is nuttier and more nutritious. Quinoa also makes a great alternative if you’re looking for a different texture or a gluten-free option.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy and lean. If you want a juicier choice, opt for thighs. For a quicker option, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver—just shred it and mix it in!
Corn: Fresh corn adds sweetness and crunch, but you can use frozen or canned corn for convenience. If using canned, drain it well. Grilled corn gives a smoky touch, which I absolutely love.
Optional Ingredients: The jalapeño adds a nice kick! If you’re sensitive to spice, omit it or use bell peppers instead. Fresh lime is a must for brightness—don’t skip it!
How Do I Ensure Tender, Juicy Chicken?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but there are a few key tips to keep it juicy. First, always let your chicken rest after cooking to allow the juices to settle.
- Keep the heat at medium-high. This helps you get a nice sear.
- Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side—use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C) for doneness.
- Use the rub! It not only flavors the chicken but helps keep it juicy. Make sure to coat every piece evenly.
How to Make Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rice Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or grilled)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional for spice)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
For Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish, including time to cook the chicken, prepare the corn, and assemble your delicious rice bowls. It’s a quick and tasty meal perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this tasty mixture all over the chicken breasts. Heat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Once done, take it off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes, then dice it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, grill it lightly until it gets a nice char, or you can boil it for a few minutes until tender. Once it has cooled down, carefully cut the kernels off the cob. If you have canned or frozen corn, just heat it up until warm.
3. Combine the Base:
Now it’s time to build your bowls! Start by dividing the cooked rice into serving bowls. This will be the delicious base for your chicken and toppings.
4. Assemble the Bowl:
Top the rice in each bowl with the diced grilled chicken, corn kernels, chopped red onion, sliced jalapeños if you like a bit of spice, and a handful of fresh cilantro. Look at those vibrant colors! It’s so appetizing already!
5. Add Toppings:
Spoon some sour cream over each bowl to add creaminess, and sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese for some salty flavor. Yum!
6. Serve:
Don’t forget the lime! Garnish your bowls with lime wedges and a little extra cilantro if you’re feeling fancy. Serve right away and let everyone squeeze some lime juice over their bowls before digging in. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Frozen Corn in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to heat it through before adding it to the bowl. You can microwave it for a couple of minutes or sauté it in a pan with a tiny bit of oil until warmed. This keeps the flavors vibrant and ensures the texture works well with the other ingredients.
What Can I Substitute for Cotija Cheese?
If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta cheese is a great substitute as it has a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor. Alternatively, goat cheese can work well too for a creamier touch. Just crumble it over the top like you would cotija.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken and rice in the microwave until heated thoroughly, stirring occasionally. Add fresh toppings like cilantro and lime juice after reheating for the best flavor!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Bowl?
Yes! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like diced bell peppers, avocado, or even black beans for added protein and nutrients. Just ensure you adjust the quantities to maintain a good balance in the bowl!
