The sizzle of chicken hitting a hot skillet, mingling with sweet, smoky corn—it’s a sound that gets my heart racing. This Protein-Packed Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl brings that joyful street food experience straight to your kitchen. In just 30 minutes, you’ll create a fulfilling dish that combines robust Mexican-inspired flavors with a delightful medley of textures. Whether you’re meal prepping for the busy week ahead or simply need a satisfying dinner, this recipe is a high-protein winner also easily tailored to your taste. Plus, you can swap in turkey or tofu for a fun twist! So, are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners and impress your loved ones with a unique bowl of goodness?
Why You’ll Love This Street Corn Recipe
Bursting with flavor, this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl reinvigorates your dinner routine with delectable Mexican tastes. High protein and wholesome, it delivers nearly 30 grams of protein per serving, perfect for satiating hungry appetites. Quick cooking means you can whip it up in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic meal prep-friendly option. Versatile enough to cater to everyone’s palate, simply switch chicken for turkey or tofu. And let’s not forget the crowd-pleasing appeal—its vibrant colors and textures make it an instant favorite! Pair it with a side of Mexican Street Corn for a complete meal that’s sure to impress!
Street Corn Chicken Rice Ingredients
• Ready to create a flavor-packed bowl? Let’s gather what you need!
For the Bowl
- Chicken Breast – Lean protein that can be swapped with turkey or tofu for a delightful variation.
- Jasmine or Basmati Rice – The perfect base for your dish; any long-grain rice can also work.
- Fresh or Frozen Corn – Adds a sweet crunch; consider grilling for extra smokiness.
- Avocado – Offers a creamy texture; keep it separate to maintain freshness, or use guacamole for added flavor.
- Fresh Cilantro – Enhances the colorful flavor profile; omit if it’s not to your taste.
- Lime Juice – Brightens the dish, and fresh juice brings out the best flavor.
- Cotija or Feta Cheese – Provides creaminess and a tangy bite; can substitute with your favorite shredded cheese.
- Chili Powder – Adds a spicy kick; adjust according to your heat preference.
- Olive Oil – Ideal for cooking; any cooking oil will also suffice.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for elevating the overall flavor of the dish.
Prepare to bring the essence of street food right to your kitchen with this delightful, protein-packed Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Street Corn Chicken Rice
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Begin by cooking the rice for the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl according to package instructions. Typically, this means rinsing 1 cup of jasmine or basmati rice until the water runs clear, then combining it with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
While the rice cooks, season 1 pound of chicken breast with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder for a kick of flavor. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil into a large skillet and heat over medium heat until shimmering. This will allow for a rich, golden sear on the chicken, enhancing the overall taste of your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Carefully add the seasoned chicken breast to the hot skillet, working in batches if necessary to avoid crowding. Sear for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has an internal temperature of 165°F. Look for a delightful browning on the surface, which adds depth to the flavor profile of the dish.
Step 4: Add the Corn
During the last 3-5 minutes of cooking the chicken, add 1 cup of fresh or frozen corn to the skillet. Sauté together until the corn is slightly charred and tender, stirring occasionally. This step will enhance the sweetness of the corn, creating an appealing contrast in textures for your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl.
Step 5: Rest and Chop the Chicken
Once the chicken has reached the correct temperature, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period is crucial for keeping the meat juicy. After resting, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces, making it easy to mix into your flavorful bowl.
Step 6: Assemble the Bowl
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed corn, and chopped chicken. Add a generous handful of chopped fresh cilantro and the juice of one lime, mixing everything gently to combine. This brightens up the dish and mingles the flavors beautifully, enhancing the deliciousness of the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Scoop the hearty mixture into serving bowls, and top each with slices of creamy avocado and a sprinkle of cotija or feta cheese. If desired, add a little extra lime juice or cilantro for garnish. Et voilà! Your vibrant and flavorful Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is ready to enjoy!
What to Serve With Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that enhance the vibrant flavors of your street corn masterpiece.
- Creamy Avocado Salad: The cool, creamy texture of fresh avocado combined with lime juice and cilantro adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty bowl.
- Chimichurri Sauce: Drizzle this herby sauce over your bowl for a zesty kick that complements the smoky corn beautifully and invigorates every bite.
- Spicy Black Beans: These protein-packed beans provide a delightful heartiness and a complimentary spice that balances the sweet and smoky elements of the bowl.
- Grilled Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and onions bring an added depth of flavor and a satisfying chewiness, mixing nicely with the rice.
- Corn Tortillas: Soft tortillas serve as a wonderful vehicle for scooping up the delicious combination of flavors while providing texture and warmth.
- Margaritas: Sip on a refreshing margarita to cleanse the palate and add a festive, authentic touch to your Mexican-inspired meal!
- Tropical Fruit Salsa: Sweet pineapple or mango salsa drizzled with lime elevates the dish with a burst of fruity freshness that harmonizes wonderfully with the savory elements.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy, lightly salted sweet potato fries add a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness, making the meal even more satisfying.
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote): This classic dish brings additional layers of flavor, incorporating creamy, cheesy goodness that pairs perfectly with the rice bowl.
How to Store and Freeze Street Corn Chicken Rice
Fridge: Store your assembled Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep the avocado separate to maintain its freshness until serving.
Freezer: If you need to freeze leftovers, it’s best to keep the chicken, rice, and corn separate in airtight containers or freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken and rice mixture in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm. Add fresh avocado and toppings after reheating for the best texture.
Meal Prep: For optimal meal prep results, store components separately to avoid sogginess and blend them just before enjoying your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl.
Expert Tips for Street Corn Chicken Rice
• Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for juiciness and safety.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Opt for fresh lime juice instead of bottled for a vibrant flavor boost that elevates your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl.
• Meal Prep Wisely: Store the rice, chicken, and corn separately; assemble just before serving to keep ingredients fresh and prevent sogginess.
• Flavor Fusion: Allow your bowl to rest for a few minutes after assembly; the flavors deepen and blend beautifully, enhancing your meal’s overall taste.
• Creative Alternatives: Don’t hesitate to switch proteins! Turkey or tofu work wonderfully, adding variety to your delightful Street Corn Chicken Rice experience.
Variations & Substitutions for Street Corn Chicken Rice
Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity and customize this dish to suit your preferences!
- Turkey Swap: Substitute chicken with ground turkey for a leaner protein option that’s just as tasty.
- Tofu Alternative: For a plant-based choice, replace chicken with firm tofu; marinate it in lime juice before cooking for extra flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to amp up the heat levels in your bowl.
- Vegetable Boost: Toss in some colorful bell peppers or zucchini while sautéing for added nutrition and crunch.
- Cheese Variation: Instead of cotija, try pepper jack or a dairy-free cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Cajun Fusion: Use Cajun seasoning instead of chili powder for a zesty twist that adds depth and warmth.
- Grilled Perfection: Grill your chicken and corn for an undeniable smoky flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- Salad Twist: Transform this recipe into a refreshing salad by serving over mixed greens with a zesty lime dressing.
Explore these suggestions to find your perfect combination! And if you’re craving more deliciousness, why not try Garlic Parmesan Chicken or indulge in a delightful side of Street Corn Cucumber?
Make Ahead Options
These Protein-Packed Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls are perfect for meal prep lovers! You can cook the rice and sauté the corn up to 3 days in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, season and cook the chicken breast up to 24 hours ahead, ensuring to cool it completely before storing to maintain its juiciness and flavor. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the rice and corn together, chop the chicken, and assemble your bowls with avocado and cheese just before eating. This way, you’ll enjoy the same restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort on busy nights—just as delicious as fresh!
Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe FAQs
What type of corn should I use for the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?
You can use either fresh or frozen corn for this recipe. If you’d like to enhance the smokiness, grilled fresh corn works beautifully. Just char it on the grill or in a skillet before adding it to your bowl.
How can I store leftovers from my Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?
Store your assembled Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s best to keep the avocado separate until serving to maintain its freshness.
Can I freeze my Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?
Absolutely! For freezing, store the individual components—chicken, rice, and corn—in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and enjoy it again!
What if my chicken isn’t cooking through?
If you find that your chicken isn’t cooking through, ensure your skillet isn’t overcrowded and the heat is at medium. You might need to cook it a bit longer, making sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer for safety—it should reach 165°F.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you have a dairy allergy, you can substitute cotija or feta cheese with a dairy-free cheese of your choice, or simply omit the cheese altogether. For gluten-free options, ensure your rice is certified gluten-free and check all packaged ingredients.
Can I meal prep this dish for the week?
Definitely! To best meal prep your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, store the rice, chicken, and corn separately in airtight containers. This keeps everything fresh and prevents sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply combine and add your toppings!
Savory Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl for a Flavor Burst
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook 1 cup of jasmine or basmati rice per package instructions, typically rinsing until water runs clear, then combining with 2 cups water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender.
- While the rice cooks, season 1 pound of chicken breast with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon chili powder. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the seasoned chicken in the skillet for 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Add 1 cup of corn in the last 3-5 minutes of cooking chicken, sautéing until charred and tender.
- Remove chicken from skillet, let rest for 5 minutes, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, sautéed corn, chopped chicken, cilantro, and lime juice. Mix gently.
- Serve in bowls topped with avocado slices and cheese, with optional extra lime juice or cilantro.
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