This Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, sweet corn, and fluffy rice. It’s colorful and packed with flavor, making dinner exciting!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: I suggest using jasmine or basmati rice for a great texture and aroma, but brown rice adds more fiber. You can even use quinoa or cauliflower rice if you’re looking for a low-carb option.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are quick to cook. You can swap these with chicken thighs for a juicier option or use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
Street Corn: This usually comes as a mix of corn, mayonnaise, queso, and spices. If you can’t find it, you can mix canned or frozen corn with some may, cheese, lime, and spices for similar flavor.
Cotija Cheese: This adds a nice salty punch, but you can also use feta or grated parmesan as a substitute. For a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast.
How Can I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can sometimes be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get it just right. Start with a hot skillet to sear the chicken, locking in those tasty juices.
- Cut chicken into even bite-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet, as this can steam the chicken instead of browning it.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. A meat thermometer can help!
How Do I Make the Sauce for the Street Corn?
The sauce is key to adding flavor! It’s a simple mix, so you want to get it just right:
- Combine mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and smoked paprika in a bowl.
- Mix well and taste; add more lime juice or spices if you like it tangier or spicier!
- Stir it into your cooked corn and chicken gently to coat everything evenly.
These tips will help you create a delicious and satisfying Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl! Enjoy cooking!
Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup street corn (Mexican-style corn, roasted corn kernels) – fresh or frozen
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as substitute)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, making a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy dinner option that’s sure to please the whole family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Rice:
If you haven’t done so already, cook your rice according to package instructions. Once it’s fluffy and ready, set it aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Make the Street Corn Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. This sauce will give your chicken and corn a creamy, spicy kick!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Season them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
4. Add the Corn:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, add the street corn to the skillet. Stir it in and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the corn is heated through and everything is well combined.
5. Stir in the Sauce:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sauce mixture until the chicken and corn are fully coated. This will add delicious flavor to your dish!
6. Assemble the Bowls:
To serve, spoon a generous amount of rice into each bowl. Top it with the chicken and corn mixture for a colorful and hearty meal.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese over each bowl and garnish with chopped cilantro for freshness. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra tangy boost.
Enjoy your flavorful Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl!
FAQ for Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Can I Use Frozen Corn for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen corn, just add it to the skillet with the chicken and cook it for an extra minute or two to ensure it’s heated through. You don’t need to thaw it beforehand!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt works great as a substitute for mayonnaise. It’ll still provide creaminess while adding a bit of tang! For a dairy-free option, try using avocado or a vegan mayo.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or lime juice to keep it moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Bowl?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just sauté them with the garlic before adding the chicken for a delicious and nutritious boost!
