This Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a fun meal that mixes juicy chicken, sweet corn, and fluffy rice. It’s colorful and packed with flavor!
You can whip this up in no time, and it’s great for busy days. I love topping mine with some fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a zesty finish. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Jasmine rice adds a nice aroma and fluffy texture. You could also use basmati or even brown rice for a healthier option. If you’re in a pinch, instant rice works too!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep it lean and easy. Feel free to use thighs for more flavor, or even grilled tofu for a vegetarian option.
Street Corn: Canned street corn is quick and convenient, but frozen corn adds a fresher taste. Make sure to thaw it first! You can also make your own street corn mix by grilling fresh corn and adding similar flavors.
Cotija Cheese: Crumbled cotija brings a salty kick. If you can’t find it, feta works as a great substitute. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll nail it every time! Here’s what to do:
- Start with even thickness: Pound the chicken breasts to ensure they cook evenly.
- Heat your skillet to medium: This allows a nice sear without overcooking.
- Let it rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to sit for a few minutes before slicing. This locks in juices and keeps it tender.
Following these steps will help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken to top off your rice bowl!
Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (jasmine or basmati preferred)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Street Corn Mixture:
- 1 can (15 oz) street corn (or use frozen corn, thawed)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as substitute)
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (additional for the corn mixture)
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced avocado
- Chopped green onions
- Hot sauce
Time Needed:
This delicious bowl takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 25 minutes to have this tasty meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by mixing chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub this spice mix all over both sides of the chicken breasts for great flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
3. Make the Street Corn Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and chopped cilantro. Stir in the canned or thawed corn until everything is mixed well. This will be a creamy and zesty topping for your rice bowl!
4. Assemble the Bowls:
Divide the cooked rice evenly between your serving bowls. On top of the rice, place the sliced chicken and a generous scoop of the street corn mixture. Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese over each bowl for that perfect finishing touch.
5. Add Toppings:
Now for the fun! Garnish each bowl with slices of avocado, chopped green onions, and a drizzle of hot sauce if you love a little spice. Don’t forget to add some fresh cilantro leaves for an extra burst of flavor!
6. Serve:
Serve these delicious bowls immediately, with extra lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. Enjoy your flavorful, colorful Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl!
FAQ for Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice is a great choice for extra fiber and nutrients. Just keep in mind that it may take longer to cook, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.
Can I Substitute the Chicken for Another Protein?
Yes! Feel free to use grilled shrimp, steak, or even plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking times based on your protein choice.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on a stovetop. You may want to add a splash of lime juice to refresh the flavors!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! You can increase the amount of chili powder in the spice mix or add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the street corn mixture for an extra kick. Customize to your spice preference!
