Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a delightful fusion of vibrant Mexican street food flavors and wholesome ingredients, creating a satisfying and nutritious dish. This recipe combines tender, seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, and a zesty street corn salad in one bowl. Inspired by the popular Mexican street food known as elote—grilled corn on the cob slathered in a creamy, spicy sauce and sprinkled with cheese—this bowl captures the essence of those bold flavors in a convenient, easy-to-make meal.

What to Expect:

• Flavor Explosion: Each bite offers a harmonious blend of smoky, spicy, tangy, and creamy elements, making it a true fiesta for your taste buds.
• Balanced Nutrition: Combining lean protein from the chicken, fiber-rich corn, and energy-providing rice, this bowl serves as a well-rounded meal suitable for various dietary preferences.
• Versatility: This bowl is easily adaptable to personal tastes. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or modify it to fit specific dietary needs, such as vegetarian or low-carb diets.

Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl delivers on both flavor and convenience. Its components can be prepared ahead of time, making it an excellent option for meal prepping or serving at gatherings.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the key benefits of this dish, provide a detailed list of ingredients, step-by-step instructions, pro tips, variations, and serving suggestions, and address frequently asked questions to ensure you can recreate this delectable bowl with ease and confidence.

Key Benefits

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a standout choice for any meal. Here are the key benefits that make this dish both enjoyable and nutritious:

Balanced Nutrition

• High-Quality Protein: The inclusion of chicken provides a substantial amount of protein, essential for muscle development and overall health.
• Fiber-Rich Corn: Corn adds valuable dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
• Wholesome Grains: Using whole grains like wild rice enhances the dish’s nutritional profile by contributing additional protein and fiber.

Flavorful and Satisfying

• Mexican Street Food Inspiration: Inspired by traditional Mexican street corn (elote), this bowl captures the authentic smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors that make the cuisine so beloved.
• Creamy and Tangy Elements: The combination of mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and cotija cheese creates a rich and tangy sauce that elevates the overall taste.

Versatility and Customization

• Adaptable Ingredients: This recipe allows for various modifications to suit different dietary preferences, such as substituting proteins or adding extra vegetables. For those seeking gluten-free and dairy-free options, exploring recipes like the Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Breakfast can inspire ingredient swaps that maintain both flavor and dietary needs.
• Meal Prep Friendly: The components can be prepared in advance, making it an excellent option for meal prepping and ensuring quick assembly during busy days.

Accessibility and Convenience

• Simple Preparation: With straightforward cooking methods and readily available ingredients, this dish is accessible to cooks of all skill levels.
• Budget-Friendly: Utilizing affordable ingredients like canned corn and rice makes this a cost-effective meal option without compromising on flavor or nutrition.

By combining these benefits, the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl stands out as a delicious, nutritious, and versatile dish that caters to a wide range of tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients

To create a flavorful Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, gather the following ingredients, for the :

Chicken:

• 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Provides lean protein and absorbs marinades well.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for marinating and cooking the chicken.
• 2 tablespoons lime juice: Adds acidity and tenderizes the meat.
• 2 teaspoons chili powder: Imparts a mild heat and depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: To enhance the savory taste.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Provides a subtle smoky flavor.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Season the chicken to taste.

Rice:

• 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice: Forms the base of the bowl; choose according to preference.
• 2 cups water or chicken broth: Cooking liquid; broth adds extra flavor.
• 1 tablespoon lime juice: Stirred into cooked rice for a citrusy note.
• Salt: To taste, for seasoning the rice.

Mexican Street Corn Salad:

• 2 cups of corn kernels, whether fresh, canned, or frozen: Fresh provides the best flavor; if using canned or frozen, ensure they are drained and thawed.
• 1 tablespoon butter: For sautéing the corn.
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise: Adds creaminess to the salad.
• 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese: Offers a salty, tangy flavor; feta cheese can be a substitute.
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped: Provides freshness and color.
• 1–2 tablespoons lime juice: Adds brightness to the salad.
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Gives a mild heat.
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: Enhances the smoky flavor.
• Adjust the seasoning with Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.

Creamy Lime Dressing:

• 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt: Base of the dressing, offering tanginess.
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Adds richness.
• 1–2 tablespoons lime juice: Provides acidity and freshness.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: For subtle heat.
• Adjust the seasoning with Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.

Optional Toppings:

• Include sliced avocado or guacamole for extra creaminess and beneficial fats.
• Cherry tomatoes halved: Introduce a sweet and juicy element.
• Black beans: Enhance protein and fiber content.
• Jalapeño slices: For additional heat.
• Add fresh cilantro leaves on top for garnish and a refreshing taste.
• Lime wedges: For squeezing over the bowl before serving.
• Roasted Red Pepper Sauce: For a smoky, slightly sweet flavor that enhances the overall taste profile of the bowl.

These ingredients come together to create a vibrant and satisfying bowl that captures the essence of Mexican street corn combined with hearty chicken and rice.

Instructions

Creating a flavorful Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl involves several straightforward steps. Follow this guide to prepare each component and assemble a delicious meal.

Preparing the Chicken

• Marinate the Chicken:
  • Ingredients:
    • Use 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken, whether breasts or thighs.
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 2 tablespoons lime juice
    • 2 teaspoons chili powder
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
    • Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
  • Steps:
    1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
    2. Place the chicken in the marinade, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
    3. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend.

• Cook the Chicken:
  • Grilling Method:
    1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
    2. Grill the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
    3. Take off the heat and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  • Stovetop Method:
    1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil.
    2. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it is thoroughly cooked.
    3. Let rest before slicing.

Cooking the Rice

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
  • 2 cups water or chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt to taste
• Steps:
  1. Wash the rice under cold water to eliminate excess starch.
  2. In a pot, bring water or broth to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt.
  3. Add the rice, lower the heat, cover the pan, and let it simmer:
     • White rice: 15-20 minutes
     • Brown rice: 40-45 minutes
  4. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in lime juice for added zest.

Preparing the Mexican Street Corn Salad

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups corn kernels, using fresh, canned, or frozen as preferred.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
  • 2 green onions, diced
  • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 lime, zested and juiced
  • ½ cup cotija cheese, crumbled
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Steps:
  • Char the Corn:
    • For fresh corn, strip the kernels right off the cob.
    • Preheat a pan over medium-high heat and drizzle in olive oil. Add corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly charred (about 8-10 minutes).
  • Combine Ingredients:
    • In a large bowl, mix charred corn, jalapeño, green onions, mayonnaise, cilantro, garlic, chili powder, lime zest, and juice.
    • Fold in crumbled cotija cheese.
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assembling the Bowls

• Steps:
  • Divide the cooked rice among serving bowls.
  • Top each bowl with sliced chicken and a generous scoop of the Mexican street corn salad.
  • Garnish with additional toppings such as sliced avocado, extra cilantro, lime wedges, or a drizzle of sour cream if desired.

By following these steps, you’ll create a vibrant and delicious Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl that’s sure to impress and satisfy.

Pro Tips and Variations

Enhance your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl experience with these expert tips and creative variations:

Pro Tips

• Marinating for Maximum Flavor:
  • Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, helping the spices infuse deeply and making each bite more tender and flavorful.
• Achieving Perfectly Charred Corn:
  • Use fresh corn and cook it over medium-high heat until slightly charred. This process enhances the corn’s natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor, reminiscent of traditional Mexican street corn.
• Creamy Dressing Consistency:
  • Blend the sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic, and paprika until smooth to create a silky dressing that ties all the bowl’s components together.
• Freshness of Toppings:
  • Add fresh ingredients like cilantro and lime just before serving to maintain their vibrant color and punchy flavor, elevating the overall taste of the bowl.
• Proper Rice Preparation:
  • Rinse rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch, resulting in fluffy, non-sticky grains that serve as a perfect base for the bowl.
• Resting the Chicken:
  • Allow the chicken to rest briefly after cooking, then slice it into pieces. This allows the juices to be redistributed, ensuring moist and flavorful pieces.
• Balancing Flavors:
  • Taste and adjust seasonings as you prepare each component. A well-balanced bowl should have harmonious flavors, with no single element overpowering the others.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option:
  • Replace the chicken with grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Adding black beans or chickpeas can boost the protein content, creating a satisfying vegetarian alternative.
• Alternative Proteins:
  • Substitute chicken with other proteins like shrimp, steak, or tofu to cater to different taste preferences and dietary needs. For another creative protein-packed bowl idea, check out the Burger Bowl for inspiration on crafting a hearty and flavorful variation. If you’re a fan of unique chicken dishes, the Chicken and Cheese Jalousie Recipe offers another delicious way to enjoy chicken in a rich, savory form.
• Grain Substitutes:
  • Use whole grains like wild rice or quinoa instead of white or brown rice to add a nutty flavor and extra nutrients to the bowl.
• Spice Level Adjustment:
  • Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat, or omit spicy elements for a milder flavor profile.
• Additional Toppings:
  • Customize your bowl with toppings such as avocado slices, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or pickled onions to add extra texture and flavor.
• Dairy-Free Version:
  • Replace dairy ingredients like sour cream and cotija cheese with plant-based alternatives to create a dairy-free bowl without compromising on taste.
• Meal Prep Friendly:
  • Prepare components like rice, chicken, and corn salad in advance and store them separately. Assemble the bowls right before serving for a quick and effortless meal.

By applying these pro tips and exploring various adaptations, you can tailor the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl to your personal preferences, ensuring a delightful and customized dining experience.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl with complementary sides and beverages that elevate the meal’s flavors and provide a well-rounded dining experience. Here are some recommendations:

Side Dishes

• Mexican Rice (Arroz Rojo):
  • A flavorful side made by cooking white rice with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and broth, resulting in a vibrant red hue. This dish adds depth and authenticity to your meal.
• Tlayudas:
  • Often referred to as Mexican pizzas, tlayudas are large, crispy tortillas topped with refried beans, cheese, lettuce or cabbage, avocado, and your choice of meat. They offer a delightful crunch and a variety of textures.
• Chilaquiles:
  • A traditional Mexican dish featuring lightly fried corn tortillas simmered in green or red salsa, topped with pulled chicken, cheese, and sometimes eggs. Chilaquiles provide a comforting and hearty accompaniment.
• Kale and Corn Salad with Chipotle-Lime Dressing:
  • A nutritious salad combining massaged kale, fresh corn, avocado, cotija cheese, and a zesty chipotle-lime dressing. This lightened-up version of elote adds freshness and a spicy kick to your meal.
• Nachos:
  • Crispy tortilla chips topped with melted cheese, jalapeños, beans, and other toppings of your choice. Nachos add a fun and shareable element to your dining experience.
• Quick Sautéed Vegetables:
  • Prepare a medley of seasonal vegetables sautéed with garlic and a squeeze of lime. This simple side adds color and nutritional balance to your bowl.

Beverages

• Agua Fresca:
  • A refreshing, non-alcoholic beverage made from fruits, cereals, flowers, or seeds blended with sugar and water. Popular flavors include hibiscus, tamarind, and various fruits.
• Margaritas:
  • A timeless Mexican beverage featuring tequila, lime juice, and triple sec, typically served in a salted-rim glass. Margaritas complement the bowl’s flavors with their citrusy zest.
• Mexican Beer:
  • Light lagers like Corona or Modelo Especial offer a crisp and refreshing pairing that doesn’t overpower the meal’s flavors.
• Horchata:
  • A sweet, creamy beverage made from rice, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon. Horchata provides a soothing contrast to the savory and spicy elements of the bowl. For those looking to explore more flavor-rich dishes that pair well with these beverages, the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is another comforting option that offers a creamy and savory profile.

By incorporating these sides and beverages, you can create a diverse and satisfying meal that highlights the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine, perfectly complementing your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl.

Conclusion

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, combining the smoky sweetness of charred corn, the savory richness of seasoned chicken, and the satisfying heartiness of rice. This dish not only brings the vibrant essence of Mexican street food to your kitchen but also offers versatility to suit various dietary preferences and occasions.

Key Takeaways:

• Flavorful Experience: Each component—from the zesty street corn salad to the tender chicken—contributes to a harmonious and exciting culinary journey.
• Nutritional Balance: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, this bowl serves as a wholesome meal that satisfies both taste and health considerations.
• Customizable and Accessible: With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can easily adapt this recipe to include your favorite flavors or accommodate dietary needs.

Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or planning a meal for guests, the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl stands out as a versatile and delectable option. Its combination of familiar ingredients presented in an innovative way ensures it will become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

*Embrace the bold flavors and enjoy crafting this satisfying dish that brings a touch of street food charm to your dining table.

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Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl – Flavorful and Easy Recipe

ZikoWilson

Savor the bold flavors of this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, combining juicy grilled chicken, zesty street corn salad, and fluffy cilantro-lime rice. It's a quick, budget-friendly meal perfect for lunch or dinner.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Main Dish

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 4 serves

Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

• Grill or skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Cooking pot with lid
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice freshly squeezed
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Street Corn Salad:

• 2 cups corn kernels grilled or charred
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1/4 cup cotija cheese crumbled, or use feta as an alternative
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

For the Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice or brown rice for a healthier option
• 2 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• Salt to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Sliced red onions
• Additional cotija cheese
• Lime wedges for garnish

Instructions

 

Marinate the Chicken:

• In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Add chicken breasts, coat well, and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  

Cook the Rice:

• Rinse rice under cold water.
• In a pot, bring water or broth to a boil. Add rice and salt.
• Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until water is absorbed (about 18-20 minutes).
• Fluff the rice, stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro, and set aside.
  

Grill the Chicken:

• Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat.
• Grill marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  
• Remove, let rest, and slice.

Grilling and Preparing Corn:

• Grill the corn cob over an open flame for 2-3 minutes on each side until the kernels are charred.
  

Prepare the Street Corn Salad:

• In a mixing bowl, combine grilled corn, mayonnaise, sour cream, cotija cheese, lime juice, chili powder, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
• Stir until well mixed.
  

Assemble the Bowl:

• Place a layer of cilantro-lime rice at the bottom of each bowl.
• Top with grilled chicken slices and a scoop of street corn salad.
• Garnish with red onions, extra cotija cheese, and lime wedges.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

SERVING: 350g | CALORIES: 420kcal | CARBOHYDRATES: 35g | PROTEIN: 32g | FAT: 18g | SATURATED FAT: 6g | CHOLESTEROL: 110mg | SODIUM: 480mg | POTASSIUM: 650mg | FIBER: 3g | SUGAR: 4g | VITAMIN A: 520IU | VITAMIN C: 7mg | CALCIUM: 110mg | IRON: 2.2mg

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Recipe Notes

• Substitutions: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier twist.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
• Variations: Add sliced avocado or diced tomatoes for added freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Ingredients and Components

Serving Suggestions and Pairings