This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a colorful meal packed with flavors! It features juicy chicken, sweet corn, and fluffy rice, all mixed with a tangy sauce. Yum!
When I make this bowl, I love how every bite brings a taste of summer. It’s like a party in my mouth! Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover chicken. What’s not to love?
This dish is super easy to put together, and you can customize it with your favorite toppings. I often add some avocado and cilantro for an extra touch. Enjoy every spoonful!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: I used white rice for this recipe, but brown rice or quinoa can be great alternatives. They both add texture and extra nutrients, which is a nice bonus!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a wonderful option too. You can also try tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian route.
Corn: Sweet corn is essential! Fresh corn on the cob is best when in season, but frozen corn works just fine. If you want a different flavor, try black beans or diced bell peppers.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: This creamy blend is delicious, but you can substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter choice, which also adds protein. Vegan mayo can replace regular mayo for a dairy-free option.
Spices: The chili powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika are key players. If you want to mix it up, try Cajun seasoning or taco seasoning for a unique flavor twist.
How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but a few tips can help you nail it! Start with marinating the chicken in the spice blend for extra flavor. Always preheat your skillet to ensure a nice sear.
- Heat olive oil over medium-high heat. It should shimmer but not smoke.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Don’t flip too soon; let it develop a good crust.
- Check for doneness using a meat thermometer (165°F) or slice it to ensure it’s no longer pink inside.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
How to Make Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup sweet corn (fresh or frozen)
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (for cooking)
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 15 minutes marinating the chicken, and then another 15 to cook everything and assemble the bowl. It’s a quick and fulfilling meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by taking your chicken breasts and placing them in a bowl. Now, sprinkle in the chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to rub the spices all over the chicken until it’s well coated. Let the chicken marinate for about 15 minutes to soak in all those delicious flavors.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Next, heat up some olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice golden sear. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into pieces.
3. Preparing the Street Corn:
In the same skillet, toss in the sweet corn. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the corn is slightly charred and has a lovely aroma. Once it’s done, stir in the lime juice and let it cook for an additional minute. This will give the corn a zesty kick!
4. Making the Sauce:
While the corn is cooking, let’s whip up the creamy sauce. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and another tablespoon of lime juice. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This will be a delicious topping for your rice bowl!
5. Assembling the Bowl:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Grab a serving bowl and add a generous scoop of cooked white rice as the base. Top it with slices of the cooked chicken, followed by the charred corn. Drizzle your creamy sauce over the top for that extra flavor.
6. Garnishing:
For a fresh touch, sprinkle some chopped cilantro over your bowl. This will not only add flavor but also make your dish look beautiful!
7. Serving:
Enjoy your delicious Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl right away while it’s warm! It’s a delightful mix of flavors that you won’t want to miss!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice is a great substitute and adds extra fiber to your meal. Just keep in mind that brown rice usually requires a longer cooking time, so cook it according to package instructions before assembling your bowl.
What If I Don’t Have Mayonnaise or Sour Cream?
No problem! You can substitute plain Greek yogurt for both mayonnaise and sour cream. It will provide a similar creaminess but with added protein. Just use the same amounts, and you’ll have a delicious sauce!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the bowl, covering it to retain moisture, for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. You can also add a splash of water to the rice to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Bowl?
Definitely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers, zucchini, or even diced tomatoes. Just make sure to sauté them until they’re cooked to your liking before adding them to the bowl!
