The sizzle of succulent chicken grilling in the backyard often means summer is in full swing, and that’s exactly the vibe I’m bringing to you with this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. Picture a vibrant bowl filled with smoky, charred corn perfectly mixed with creamy mayo and a splash of zesty lime, all resting atop fluffy rice and tender chicken. This recipe is a delightful comfort food that not only satisfies your weeknight dinner cravings but also impresses at any gathering. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable—you can adapt it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Ready to bring a taste of summer to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this fun and flavorful dish that will be your new favorite!
Why Is This Bowl a Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: The blend of smoky corn, zesty lime, and tender chicken creates a fiesta in every bite.
Customizable Delight: Tailor it to your taste – swap chicken for shrimp or tofu, or use quinoa for a lighter twist.
Easy Prep: Quick enough for a weeknight meal, yet impressive enough for weekend gatherings, this dish embodies convenience.
Nutritionally Rich: Packed with protein and vibrant veggies, it’s a satisfying way to nourish your body while keeping it delicious.
Comforting Choice: A perfect balance of flavors and textures, providing the ultimate comfort food experience. Pair it with a refreshing side salad or some crunchy tortilla chips for a complete feast, and if you enjoyed this, check out our Garlic Chicken Broccoli for another healthy option!
Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this deliciously vibrant Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl.
For the Rice
- Rice – The fluffy base of the dish; for extra flavor, cook in chicken broth.
For the Chicken
- Chicken breasts – The star protein; season well to enhance its natural flavors.
For the Seasoning
- Chili powder – Adds warmth; feel free to adjust according to your spice preference.
- Paprika – Introduces smokiness; smoked paprika is a delightful alternative.
- Garlic powder – A great flavor booster; fresh minced garlic can elevate even more.
- Cumin – Adds earthy notes; can be left out for a milder taste.
- Salt & Pepper – Essentials for seasoning; adjust to match your taste.
For the Corn Mix
- Corn on the cob – Sweet and crunchy; canned corn works if fresh isn’t available.
- Mayonnaise & Sour cream – The creamy dressing for the corn; substitute Greek yogurt for a healthy spin.
- Lime juice – Brightens up all the flavors; fresh lime is preferred for that vibrant zing.
- Cotija cheese – Adds a creamy texture; feta is a suitable substitute for a different flavor.
- Fresh cilantro – For garnish; it adds a refreshing touch and is optional based on your tastes.
For Optional Garnishes
- Avocado – Brings creaminess to the bowl; perfect for the rich texture.
- Pickled jalapeños – Adds a kick; adjust based on your heat tolerance.
- Lime wedges – For an extra burst of citrus; perfect for those who love zesty flavors!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by bringing chicken broth or water to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan. Add the rice and a pinch of salt, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and let it sit covered for a few extra minutes for optimal texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the rice cooks, prepare the chicken breasts. In a small bowl, mix chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken with olive oil and sprinkle the seasoning blend generously over both sides. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from the grill and let rest before slicing.
Step 3: Grill the Corn
With the chicken resting, it’s time to grill the corn. Place the ears of corn directly on the grill over medium-high heat. Grill for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are charred and tender. Let the corn cool slightly, then cut the kernels off the cob and set aside for the street corn mix.
Step 4: Make the Street Corn Mix
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the grilled corn kernels with mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and crumbled cotija cheese. Stir until the corn is evenly coated in the creamy mixture. This street corn mix adds a delightful zest to your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, bringing all the flavors together beautifully.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
To create your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, start with a generous scoop of fluffly rice as the base. Layer the grilled chicken slices on top, followed by a hearty portion of the street corn mix. Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and pickled jalapeños, if desired, to add an extra touch of flavor and brightness to your dish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Take a moment to admire your beautifully assembled Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl before serving. The vibrant colors and layers of flavors will surely impress your family and friends. This dish makes for a perfect weeknight dinner or a delightful dish for any summer gathering, capturing the essence of summer in every delectable bite.
Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Variations
Customize your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl to match your unique taste profile and dietary preferences!
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Quinoa Base: Swap rice for quinoa for a protein boost and delightful nutty flavor. Quinoa adds a chewy texture that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
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Shrimp Substitute: Replace chicken with grilled shrimp for a seafood twist. The shrimp’s sweetness pairs wonderfully with the smoky corn mixture.
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Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice. It keeps the dish light while providing a satisfying base.
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Veggie-Packed: Add black beans and diced bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. This delicious addition provides a nice color contrast and enhances the overall flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or sriracha into the street corn mix for those who appreciate some heat. It brings an exciting layer of spicy flavor that elevates the dish.
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Creamy Dream: Experiment with different cheeses, like feta or gouda, for a creative twist on the flavor profile. Each cheese brings its own character, enhancing the creaminess.
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Fresh Herbs: Mix in a handful of fresh parsley or mint alongside cilantro for a vibrant flavor change. These herbs contribute an aromatic brightness that refreshes every bite.
If you’re looking for even more variations, consider trying out our Bang Chicken Bowl or indulge in some delicious Greek Chicken Bowls to inspire your meal themes!
What to Serve with Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Creating a cozy, complete meal is easy when you infuse your dinner table with colorful and flavorful sides.
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Tortilla Chips:
The perfect crunchy vessel for scooping or a great side for dipping into sauces. Their lightness complements the bowl’s creaminess beautifully. -
Cilantro Lime Rice:
This aromatic rice mirrors the flavors in the bowl, adding a fresh, zesty touch that makes every bite even more delightful. -
Fresh Green Salad:
A vibrant salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette balances the hearty rice bowl, providing a refreshing contrast of textures. -
Roasted Vegetables:
Caramelized carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini bring sweetness and crunch, enhancing the dish’s colorful presentation and nutritional value. -
Avocado Wedges:
Creamy and rich, avocado brings an extra layer of indulgence, enhancing the richness of the street corn mix and the grilled chicken. -
Margaritas:
Elevate the summer vibes with a refreshing margarita on the side. The citrusy zing pairs perfectly with the zesty flavors of the bowl, enhancing the overall experience.
How to Store and Freeze Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep chicken, rice, and street corn mix separate to maintain texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze components separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Rice and chicken reheat well, while corn is best added fresh.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge. Gently warm up rice and chicken in the microwave, ensuring each is heated to a safe temperature of 165°F before serving.
Assembly Tip: For optimal freshness and texture, add the corn mix just before serving, keeping your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl as delightful as the day it was made!
Make Ahead Options
These Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the rice, grill the chicken, and make the street corn mix up to 3 days in advance. To maintain freshness, refrigerate each component separately in airtight containers. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the rice and chicken gently in the microwave or on the stovetop while keeping the street corn mix fresh to avoid sogginess. After warming, assemble your bowls by layering the rice, chicken, and corn mix, then adding the desired garnishes. This method not only saves time during busy weeknights but also ensures that your meal is just as delicious!
Expert Tips for the Best Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
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Chicken Safety: Ensure that your chicken is fully cooked to 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to prevent undercooking, keeping meals safe and delicious.
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Perfect Rice: Let your rice sit covered for a few extra minutes after cooking. This simple step enhances the fluffiness of your rice, which is essential for your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl.
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Charred Corn Delight: For the best flavor, grill the corn until it’s nicely charred. This adds smokiness and sweetness, elevating the overall dish—don’t rush the grilling process!
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Customize Wisely: Feel free to experiment with toppings! However, ensure that heavy toppings, like avocado, are added just before serving to avoid sogginess.
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Meal Prep Magic: If making ahead, store components separately in the fridge. This keeps everything fresh and allows you to enjoy your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl on demand!
Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe FAQs
What type of corn is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh corn on the cob is ideal for that sweet flavor and crunchy texture. However, if fresh corn is out of season or unavailable, you can easily substitute canned corn. Just drain it well before mixing it into your dish.
How should I store leftovers of the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep each component—rice, chicken, and street corn mix—separate to maintain their textures and flavors. That way, when you’re ready to enjoy it again, everything tastes fresh!
Can I freeze the components of the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?
Certainly! For freezing, place your rice and grilled chicken in freezer-safe containers. You can freeze them for up to 2 months. Remember to cool them completely before sealing. For best results, add the street corn mix fresh right before serving for that delightful creaminess!
What should I do if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly on the grill?
If you find that your chicken isn’t cooking evenly, it’s likely due to uneven heat on the grill. Try flattening the chicken breasts slightly for a more uniform cooking time. Additionally, if you’re using a thicker part of the breast, it may need a bit longer. Always check with a meat thermometer—make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This recipe can be easily adjusted for various dietary needs. For gluten-free options, make sure your seasonings and mayo are certified gluten-free. You can also replace chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein source. Additionally, if you’re concerned about dairy, substituting Greek yogurt for mayo in the corn mix is a great option.
How can I adjust the spice levels in the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?
If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of chili powder when seasoning the chicken and in the corn mix. Adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to your bowl can also help temper the heat. For those who like it spicy, feel free to add more chili or include sliced jalapeños as a topping!
Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl: A Flavorful Summer Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the Rice: Bring chicken broth to a rolling boil. Add rice and a pinch of salt, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes.
- Prepare the Chicken: Mix chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Coat chicken with olive oil and sprinkle seasoning. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Grill the Corn: Place corn on the grill over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until charred. Let cool and cut kernels off cob.
- Make the Street Corn Mix: Combine corn, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and cotija cheese in a bowl. Mix well.
- Assemble the Bowls: Start with rice, layer grilled chicken, street corn mix, and add garnishes like cilantro, avocado, and jalapeños.
- Serve and Enjoy: Admire your assembled bowl before serving. It captures summer in every bite.