If you’re craving a vibrant and flavorful dish, the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is an ideal choice. This recipe combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and the delightful flavors of street corn, a popular Mexican street food. With its bold flavors and colorful presentation, this dish is a feast for both the eyes and the
palate.
Ingredients
Chicken Breast The foundation of the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is boneless, skinless chicken breasts. About 1 pound of chicken is needed. This lean protein absorbs all the marinated flavors and provides a delicious, tender bite.
Sweet Corn For the sweet corn, you’ll need 2 cups of kernels—either fresh or frozen. Grilled or charred corn adds a smoky depth, but you can sauté the corn for a lighter approach. The sweetness and crunch elevate the texture of the dish.
Rice Use 2 cups of cooked white or brown rice. Brown rice offers more fiber, while white rice has a softer, fluffier texture. Choose based on your preferences.
Fresh Cilantro About ¼ cup of fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness. If you’re not fond of cilantro, parsley or green onions are great alternatives.
Avocado One ripe avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats. Slice or dice it for a smooth contrast to the crunchy corn and chicken.
Lime Juice Squeeze the juice of one lime over the bowl to give the dish a zesty, bright flavor that balances the richness of the other ingredients.
Ingredients for Chicken Marinade
- Lime juice: 2 tbsp
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Black pepper: ½ tsp
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Paprika: 1 tsp
- Cumin: ½ tsp
Ingredients for the Corn
- Butter or oil: 1 tbsp
- Salt: ¼ tsp
- Black pepper: ¼ tsp
Ingredients for the Rice
- Uncooked rice: 1 cup (yields about 2 cups cooked)
- Water: 2 cups
- Salt: ½ tsp
Recipe Preparation
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix lime juice, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin to create the marinade. Coat the chicken breasts in the marinade and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb all the flavors.
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature: 165°F). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juiciness.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Corn
If using fresh corn, steam the cobs for about 5 minutes before carefully cutting off the kernels. Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the corn, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly charred.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water and place it in a pot with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer. White rice cooks in about 18-20 minutes, while brown rice takes 35-40 minutes. Once done, fluff with a fork.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowl
Start by placing a scoop of fluffy rice as the base. Top it with sliced grilled chicken, followed by the sautéed sweet corn. Add fresh cilantro and arrange slices of creamy avocado around the edges. Finish the dish with a squeeze of lime juice. For an extra kick, consider adding crumbled feta or pickled jalapeños.
Serving and Storing
Serving Suggestions
Keep the components separate in the bowl for a customizable experience. You can also serve lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus. Crushed tortilla chips add a satisfying crunch.
For a visually appealing presentation, layer the rice first, followed by the chicken, corn, cilantro, and avocado. This makes your bowl as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.
Tips and Tricks
Chef’s Tips
- Switch up the protein! Grilled shrimp or pulled pork make great alternatives to chicken.
- Add black or pinto beans for extra protein and texture.
- Experiment with different sauces like creamy avocado dressing or a spicy chipotle sauce to elevate the dish.
- For a lighter version, substitute rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa.
For Hosting:
- Serve the ingredients on a large platter for a shareable, fun meal experience.
FAQs
What is a Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl? It’s a flavorful dish inspired by Mexican street food, featuring grilled chicken, sautéed corn, and rice, topped with fresh herbs, avocado, and lime.
Can I make it vegetarian? Yes! Replace the chicken with black beans or grilled vegetables such as zucchini and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth for extra flavor.
How do I store leftovers? Store the individual components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Can I customize my toppings? Absolutely! Feel free to add pickled jalapeños, crumbled cheese, diced tomatoes, or crispy tortilla strips.
Is it gluten-free? Yes, as long as you ensure that any sauces or seasonings used are gluten-free.
What sides pair well with this dish? Pair with a light salad, grilled vegetables, or crispy chips with salsa to complement the flavors.
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