Name: Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, thighs, or tenderloins (cut into bite size pieces); 1 tsp smoked paprika; 2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp oregano; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 lime juice of one; 3 cups sweet corn (frozen or fresh works); 2 tbsp light sour cream; 1/4 cup light mayo; 3 tbsp cotija cheese (or finely grated parmesan or queso fresco); 1 tsp chili powder (or tajin); 1/2 lime juice of half of a; salt and pepper (to taste); hot sauce (to taste); 1 cup jasmine rice (uncooked); 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 1 ¼ cup water; 1/4 cup minced cilantro ((skip if you don't like it)); 1 lime juice of one; lettuce; pico de gallo; onions; jalapeno; diced avocado; tortilla chips

Introduction to Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

What are Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls and why are they a must-try?

Have you ever craved a meal that blends bold flavors with simple preparation? Look no further than Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls. These vibrant dishes encapsulate the essence of Mexican street food, offering you a delicious way to enjoy seasoned chicken, creamy street corn, and fluffy cilantro lime rice—all in one bowl!

Imagine sinking into a warm, satisfying bowl packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant, fresh ingredients. These bowls are not only a feast for the palate, but they're also super customizable. You can easily adjust the toppings to fit your dietary preferences or use whatever ingredients you have on hand. Want extra heat? Toss in some jalapeños. Prefer a vegetarian twist? Swap the chicken for beans!

With a prep time of just 5 minutes and a cook time of 25 minutes, you'll find these bowls to be an ideal solution for busy weeknights or meal prep. They're not only nutritious but a fun, engaging way to bring a bit of the streets of Mexico into your kitchen!

Don’t miss out on this culinary adventure; your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Crafting the perfect Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls is all about using the right ingredients. Here’s a breakdown to ensure your bowls are packed with flavor and nutrition!

Chicken Ingredients

For your chicken base, you’ll need:

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, thighs, or tenderloins cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon oregano
1 tablespoon olive oil
Juice of one lime

This combination brings an excellent depth of flavor to the protein that is both savory and slightly tangy.

Street Corn Topping Ingredients

Elevate your dish with this vibrant street corn topping:

3 cups sweet corn (frozen or fresh)
2 tablespoon light sour cream
¼ cup light mayo
3 tablespoon cotija cheese (or finely grated parmesan or queso fresco)
1 teaspoon chili powder or tajin
Juice of half a lime
Salt and pepper to taste
Hot sauce to taste

This topping is what truly captures the essence of street corn, giving your rice bowls that extra kick!

Cilantro Lime Rice Ingredients

For a refreshing and zesty base, the cilantro lime rice requires:

1 cup jasmine rice (uncooked)
½ teaspoon kosher salt
1 ¼ cups water
¼ cup minced cilantro (optional)
Juice of one lime

The fluffy rice complements the toppings perfectly, adding a nice balance to your meal.

Optional Toppings

Feel free to personalize your bowls with these optional add-ons:

Lettuce
Pico de gallo
Onions
Jalapeños
Diced avocado
Tortilla chips

Mix and match to create your ideal bowl!

Preparing Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Creating Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls is not just about following a recipe; it's about evoking flavors that transport you straight to a bustling street market brimming with vibrant ingredients. This dish is a perfect combination of creamy street corn, perfectly seasoned chicken, and zesty cilantro lime rice, all coming together to make a meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process so you can whip up these delicious bowls any night of the week!

Prepare the cilantro lime rice

Begin your culinary journey by preparing the bright and aromatic cilantro lime rice. Here’s how:

In a medium pot, combine 1 cup of jasmine rice with 1 ¼ cup of water and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 12 minutes until the water is fully absorbed.
After cooking, remove the pot from heat but leave it covered for an additional 10 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to become fluffy.
Finally, fluff the rice with a rubber spatula or spoon and stir in ¼ cup of minced cilantro and the juice of one lime, adding a refreshing zing to the rice. Set aside while you prepare the other components.

Cook the seasoned chicken

While the rice is simmering away, it’s time to focus on the chicken:

In a large bowl, toss 1.5 lbs of bite-sized chicken pieces with smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, oregano, kosher salt, olive oil, and the juice of a lime. Make sure every piece is well-coated with the spices.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until the pieces are browned and cooked through. Remember, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking—cook in batches if necessary.

Make the street corn topping

Next up is the star of the show—our creamy street corn topping:

If using frozen corn, heat it in a small pan over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
In a mixing bowl, combine the corn with 2 tablespoons of light sour cream, ¼ cup of light mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons of cotija cheese, lime juice, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and don’t forget a splash of hot sauce if you’re feeling adventurous!

Assemble the rice bowls

Now for the fun part! Bring everything together:

Start with a warm base of your fluffy cilantro lime rice in a bowl.
Layer on the cooked chicken, generously top with the creamy street corn, and finish it off with your favorite toppings. Think diced avocado, pico de gallo, or crunchy tortilla chips for added texture.

And there you have it—your vibrant and flavorful Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls are ready to enjoy! Feel free to customize them to match your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Did you know that street food is often deeply rooted in cultural heritage? It’s always a good conversation starter at the dinner table! For more insights on Mexican cuisine, check out resources from reputable culinary sites. Happy cooking!

Variations on Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Vegetarian Version with Grilled Veggies

If you’re looking to swap the protein for something plant-based, try a vegetarian version of street corn chicken rice bowls. Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and portobello mushrooms bring out a fantastic smoky flavor that complements the creamy street corn beautifully. Simply marinate the veggies in olive oil, lime juice, and your favorite spices before grilling. This not only makes the dish hearty and satisfying but also adds a fresh twist that even meat-lovers will enjoy.

Spicy Twist with Jalapeños and Sriracha

For those who crave a kick, add in some sliced jalapeños and a drizzle of sriracha to your street corn chicken rice bowls. The heat from the jalapeños pairs perfectly with the sweet corn, enhancing the overall flavor profile. You can also mix sriracha into the street corn topping for an extra punch. When you combine these spicy elements, it elevates a cozy dish into a hearty, mouthwatering experience.

Feel free to get creative and mix in your favorite toppings! What variations will you try?

Cooking tips and notes for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Tips for perfectly cooked chicken

To achieve juicy and flavorful chicken in your street corn chicken rice bowls, start by marinating your chicken for at least 15 minutes. This allows the spices and lime juice to penetrate deeply. Cooking over medium-high heat helps develop a beautiful brown crust while keeping the inside tender. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F is the magic number. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cooking in batches ensures even browning.

How to achieve fluffy rice

For fluffy cilantro lime rice, rinsing the jasmine rice until the water runs clear removes excess starch, preventing clumping. Use a tight-fitting lid when cooking to trap steam. After simmering, let the rice rest for 10 minutes before fluffing it with a fork. Stir in lime juice and cilantro gently to avoid mashing the grains. Enjoy your homemade street corn chicken rice bowls!

Serving suggestions for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Pairing with sides

To elevate your street corn chicken rice bowls, consider pairing them with fresh sides. A zesty cucumber salad or tangy black bean salsa can balance the flavors beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, whip up some roasted sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness. All these options complement the smoky and creamy elements of the dish while enhancing your nutritional intake.

Best serving dishes for presentation

When it comes to presentation, opt for wide, shallow bowls that allow the vibrant colors of your street corn chicken rice bowls to shine. Choose earthy, rustic styles to evoke a cozy feel, or go for sleek, modern designs if you prefer a contemporary touch. Don’t forget to garnish with lime wedges and fresh cilantro—these small additions create an inviting visual that’s sure to impress your guests! For additional ideas on plating, visit Food52 or check out Pinterest for inspiration.

Time Breakdown for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Preparation Time
Getting ready for your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls is a breeze! You'll spend about 5 minutes prepping your ingredients, which makes this recipe perfect for busy weeknights.

Cooking Time
Once you're prepped, the cooking process takes around 25 minutes. This includes cooking the chicken, making the street corn topping, and fluffing up that delicious cilantro lime rice.

Total Time
In just 30 minutes, you'll have a colorful, nutritious meal ready to enjoy. These bowls are quick to prepare, so you can focus more on savoring each bite rather than spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for a satisfying dinner with family or friends!

Looking for a way to make clean up easier? Consider cooking everything in one skillet and choosing dishes that go seamlessly from stove to serving. For meal prep tips, check out this article that shares additional strategies for streamlined cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Calories

Each serving of these delicious street corn chicken rice bowls packs in approximately 566 calories. This makes them a hearty option for dinner, striking a fantastic balance between satisfying and nutritious.

Protein

With 47 grams of protein per bowl, these rice bowls offer a significant protein punch, which is essential for muscle recovery and keeping you full. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a meal that energizes you!

Carbohydrates

Each bowl contains about 58 grams of carbohydrates, providing a solid source of energy. The fluffy cilantro lime rice and sweet corn not only add flavor but also contribute to your daily carb needs, making this a well-rounded meal option.

In summary, these street corn chicken rice bowls are not only delicious but also a fantastic choice for a nutritious weeknight dinner. For more detailed insights on nutritional guidelines, check out Nutrition.gov to help you navigate your dietary goals.

FAQs about Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Can I customize the toppings?

Absolutely! One of the best features of these street corn chicken rice bowls is their versatility. Top your bowl with anything you love. Consider adding crisp lettuce, zesty pico de gallo, diced avocado, or spicy jalapeños. Feeling adventurous? Try crushed tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch!

How can I meal prep these bowls?

Meal prepping these bowls is super easy! Cook your chicken, street corn topping, and cilantro lime rice separately, then store them in airtight containers. Portion them out for the week. When you're ready to eat, simply heat them up and assemble your bowl. This way, you have a delicious and nutritious meal ready in minutes!

What can I substitute for cotija cheese?

If you can't find cotija cheese, don't worry! You can substitute it with finely grated Parmesan or queso fresco. Both will add that creamy, salty flavor you’re looking for. Alternatively, dairy-free cheese can work well if you prefer a plant-based option!

Conclusion on Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

In just 30 minutes, you can whip up these street corn chicken rice bowls that are bursting with flavor and nutrition. Perfect for meal prep, they keep well and are incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize them with your favorite toppings. Enjoy a cozy, delicious dinner that’s sure to please everyone at your table!