Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! You’re going to love this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. Whenever I need a quick, delicious dinner that feels like a fiesta in a bowl, this recipe comes to my rescue. I first stumbled upon it during a summer trip to a local food festival. The sweet, smoky corn paired with succulent chicken and fluffy rice just blew my mind!
Now, this is not just your traditional bowl of rice and chicken; it’s so much more. Picture this: warm, cheesy corn, juicy grilled chicken, and the perfect blend of spices all mingling together on a bed of fluffy rice, topped with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for that extra zing. Trust me, my friends, it’s like a party in your mouth, and it’s incredibly easy to whip up at home!
What’s in Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?
Chicken Breast: The star of the show! I usually opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts since they cook up tender and juicy. If you’re a bit adventurous, try marinating the chicken in some lime juice and spices for an added kick!
Street Corn Style Corn: For that authentic street food flavor, I love using corn on the cob that’s grilled or charred. The sweet, smoky notes really elevate the dish. If fresh corn isn’t available, canned or frozen corn can work too—just give it a good sear in a skillet for some color.
White Rice: A perfect base for our bowl! I use jasmine rice, but feel free to substitute with brown rice for a nuttier flavor or quinoa for a protein boost.
Queso Fresco or Cotija: This crumbly cheese adds a delightfully creamy texture and a saltiness that just ties everything together. You can find it in the cheese section of most grocery stores!
Cilantro: Fresh herbs always brighten up a dish! Chop up some fresh cilantro to sprinkle on top for a fresh flavor that will make your taste buds dance.
Lime: A good squeeze of lime juice not only adds freshness but also helps to cut through the richness of the cheese and chicken.
Is Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Good for You?
You bet it is! This dish can be a truly balanced meal if you keep an eye on portions.
Chicken Breast: A fantastic source of lean protein, it’s perfect for muscle maintenance and repair.
Corn: Packed with vitamins and fiber, corn is a fun way to sneak in some veggies and add sweetness to the bowl. Just keep an eye on the amounts since it can be high in sugar.
Rice: The key here is to choose whole grain options like brown rice, which is higher in fiber and nutrients than white rice.
Cilantro and Lime: These not only provide flavor but also add a healthy dose of vitamins without added calories.
Ingredients
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (serves 4)
– 2 cups corn (fresh or canned)
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1 cup queso fresco or cotija cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional spices: paprika, cumin, chili powder (for seasoning the chicken)
How to Make Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and any spices you like—paprika or cumin work great! Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil, and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F).
2. **Cook the Corn:** While the chicken is cooking, in another skillet, add a little more olive oil. If you’re using fresh corn, cut the kernels off the cob, and toss them into the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the kernels are golden brown.
3. **Assemble the Bowls:** Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes and then slice it. In a bowl, layer the rice, followed by the juicy chicken, then the sautéed corn, and sprinkle the cheese on top.
4. **Finish with Freshness:** Drizzle lime juice all over and finish with fresh cilantro. If you like it spicy, feel free to add some hot sauce or jalapeños on top!
Serving Suggestions for Your Street Corn Fiesta!
– Feeling fancy? Add some avocado slices or guacamole for creaminess.
– Want extra crunch? Toss in some crushed tortilla chips right before serving.
– Make it a salad by swapping the rice for fresh greens!
– You could even make this a meal prep star—just pack separate containers so you can have this delightful bowl through the week.
I really hope you give my Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl a try! It’s become a staple in my household, and with every bite, I’m transported back to that vibrant summer festival. I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Share your experiences, and let’s keep this culinary fiesta going!