Quick Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love street corn and crave a hearty meal, this recipe will become a new favorite. The grilled chicken adds a smoky depth, while the creamy, cheesy street corn topping takes things to the next level. It’s all balanced out with seasoned rice, making it a well-rounded meal. Plus, you can customize your bowl with your favorite toppings, like avocado, cilantro, or spicy jalapeños, to make it your own!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make a delicious Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup long-grain rice

• 2 ears of corn, husked

• ¼ cup mayonnaise

• ¼ cup sour cream

• ¼ cup cotija cheese, crumbled

• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional toppings:

• Chopped cilantro

• Diced avocado

• Sliced jalapeños

• Hot sauce

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Marinate the chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lime juice, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes (or longer if time allows).

2. Cook the rice: While the chicken marinates, rinse 1 cup of long-grain rice under cold water to remove excess starch. Cook the rice according to the package instructions, typically using a 2:1 water-to-rice ratio. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.

3. Grill the corn: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat. Brush the corn with olive oil and place it on the grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is charred on all sides. Remove from the grill and let cool slightly before cutting the kernels off the cob.

4. Grill the chicken: After the corn is done, place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.

5. Prepare the corn mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the grilled corn kernels with mayonnaise, sour cream, crumbled cotija cheese, and a squeeze of lime juice. Mix well to coat the corn evenly. Season with additional chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

6. Assemble the bowl: Start by adding a generous scoop of rice to each serving bowl. Top the rice with slices of grilled chicken, then spoon the street corn mixture over the top. Add optional toppings like chopped cilantro, diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, and a drizzle of hot sauce.

7. Serve and enjoy: Your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is ready to be served! Garnish with extra lime wedges for an added burst of freshness.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 bowls

• Total Time: 50 minutes

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

Variations

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is highly customizable:

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with grilled tofu, black beans, or roasted vegetables for a hearty vegetarian meal.

• Add Beans: Black beans or pinto beans make a great addition for more protein and fiber.

• Different Proteins: You can also swap chicken for grilled shrimp, steak, or ground turkey to create a different twist on the dish.

• Low-Carb Option: Substitute the rice with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option while keeping all the delicious flavors.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover components (rice, chicken, and street corn) separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If reheating the chicken, be sure to warm it gently to keep it tender. For the street corn mixture, you can warm it in a pan with a bit of extra sour cream or mayonnaise if needed to maintain creaminess.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the rice and corn mixture in advance. Just assemble everything when you’re ready to serve.

2. What can I use instead of cotija cheese?

If you don’t have cotija cheese, you can use feta cheese as a substitute for a similar crumbly texture and tangy flavor.

3. How do I grill corn without a grill?

You can grill corn on a stovetop grill pan or even roast it in the oven. Just make sure to rotate the corn frequently to get a charred exterior.

4. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice for a slightly nuttier flavor and more fiber, though it may require a bit more cooking time.

5. Is this recipe spicy?

The level of spice depends on how much chili powder and optional hot sauce you use. Adjust to your preference for a milder or spicier bowl.

6. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, you can substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream or vegan sour cream, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

7. How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (75°C) to be fully cooked.

8. Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn works well in this recipe. Simply thaw and sauté it to get some color before mixing with the creamy sauce.

9. Can I add more vegetables to the bowl?

Absolutely! Feel free to add roasted bell peppers, grilled zucchini, or any veggies you like for extra flavor and nutrition.

10. How do I make the rice more flavorful?

You can cook the rice in broth instead of water for added flavor. Adding a bay leaf or a squeeze of lime juice while cooking can also enhance the taste.

Conclusion

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a delightful combination of smoky grilled chicken, creamy corn topping, and perfectly seasoned rice. This versatile recipe can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for dinner tonight or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to impress.