Name: Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups cooked rice (for serving); 2 lbs chicken breasts (sliced in half, to make thin filets); seasonings: chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt and pepper; 2 Tablespoons olive oil; 2 ½ cups corn kernels (fresh cut from cob, or frozen); ½ of an onion onion (diced); 1 small jalapeno (deveined and seeded, diced (optional)); ⅓ cup mayonnaise ((80g)); ½ cup Mexican crema or sour cream ((120g)); 2 ½ teaspoons tajin (or more, to taste); 1 small lime (juice from); 2-3 Tablespoons milk (to thin sauce); 1 pinch fine sea salt; 1 ripe avocado (chopped); ½ cup cotija cheese (shredded); ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro

Introduction to Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

When it comes to satisfying weeknight dinners, street corn chicken rice bowls offer a flavor explosion that is truly hard to resist. Imagine tender, juicy chicken seasoned to perfection, paired with sweet, charred corn inspired by the vibrant street food of Mexico. Each bowl is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings a taste of the street to your home kitchen.

What Makes Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls So Irresistible?

These bowls are all about balance and customization. The creamy tajín-lime sauce ties all the flavors together, adding a creamy tang that perfectly complements the bold spices of the chicken. Plus, they are incredibly quick to prepare—whip them up in just 25 minutes!

The best part? You can adapt each bowl to your liking with toppings like avocados, cilantro, and cotija cheese, making every bite uniquely yours. Learn more about the nutritional benefits of these fresh ingredients and discover how easy it is to integrate them into your diet through sources like Healthline or Food52.

So gather your favorite ingredients, and let’s dive into this delicious recipe. Your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Creating mouthwatering street corn chicken rice bowls at home is easier than you might think! Here's a breakdown of the essential ingredients you'll need to whip up this flavorful dish.

Essential ingredients list

Cooked Rice: 2 ½ cups, for a hearty base.
Chicken: 2 lbs of chicken breasts, sliced in half for thinner filets, seasoned with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Oil: 2 tablespoons of olive oil to get that perfect sear on the chicken.
Street Corn: 2 ½ cups of corn (fresh cut or frozen), ½ onion (diced), and 1 optional jalapeño (deveined and seeded).
Creamy Sauce: ⅓ cup of mayonnaise, ½ cup of Mexican crema or sour cream, 2 ½ teaspoons of tajín, juice from 1 lime, and 2-3 tablespoons of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
Toppings: Finish off with 1 ripe avocado (chopped), ½ cup of cotija cheese (shredded), fresh cilantro (½ cup, chopped), and lime wedges for that zesty kick.

Gather these ingredients, and you're well on your way to enjoying a delicious meal packed with bold flavors and textures!

Preparing Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Creating your own Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls at home is not only a fun culinary experience but also an opportunity to indulge in a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Let’s break down the steps to prepare these delicious bowls with a little guidance and a lot of enthusiasm!

Gather Your Ingredients

The first step to getting started is to gather all your ingredients. This helps streamline your cooking process and ensures you aren’t scrambling for something last minute. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:

2 ½ cups of cooked rice
2 lbs chicken breasts, sliced in half
Seasonings: chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper
2 tablespoons of olive oil
2 ½ cups of corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
½ onion, diced
1 jalapeño, diced (optional)
For the sauce: ⅓ cup mayonnaise, ½ cup Mexican crema or sour cream, 2 ½ teaspoons tajín, juice from 1 lime, 2-3 tablespoons of milk, and a pinch of fine sea salt
Toppings: avocado, cotija cheese, cilantro, and lime wedges

Having everything ready will make your cooking adventure much smoother!

Make the Creamy Tajín-Lime Sauce

Now it’s time to make that irresistibly creamy sauce that will take your street corn chicken rice bowls to the next level. In a mixing bowl, combine:

⅓ cup of mayonnaise
½ cup of Mexican crema or sour cream
2 ½ teaspoons of tajín
Juice from one small lime
2-3 tablespoons of milk for desired consistency
A pinch of fine sea salt

Stir it well and set aside. This vibrant sauce will add a zesty kick to your bowls.

Cook the Seasoned Chicken

For the protein in your bowls, season the chicken breasts with a mix of salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano. Heat a skillet over medium heat, adding 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken and cook until it’s golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Flip it once during cooking to ensure even searing. When done, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest.

Prepare the Charred Street Corn

In the same skillet, you can harness the delicious drippings. If needed, add a tad more oil, then toss in the corn and diced onion (and jalapeño, if using). Increase the heat to high, cover with a lid, and sauté until the corn is beautifully charred and tender, about 4-5 minutes. For the final touch, stir in half of your creamy sauce to create a creamy street corn mixture.

Assemble Your Delicious Rice Bowls

Now comes the fun part! Grab your bowls and start by spooning in the cooked rice as the base. Top it off with the seasoned chicken, a generous helping of your charred street corn, and garnish with avocado, cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro. Don’t forget a lime wedge on the side for that extra burst of freshness, plus a drizzle of that creamy tajín-lime sauce.

Your homemade Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls are now ready to be savored! Enjoy this flavorful meal with family or friends, and don’t be shy about making it your own with additional toppings or components. Happy cooking!

Variations on Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Vegetarian Alternative

If you're looking for a vegetarian twist on street corn chicken rice bowls, consider swapping the chicken for seasoned tofu or jackfruit. Tofu, when marinated and grilled, absorbs flavors beautifully and provides protein while jackfruit offers a delightful texture that mimics shredded meat. Don't forget to add extra veggies like bell peppers and zucchini for a pop of color and nutrients!

Different Protein Options

Craving variety? Try using shrimp, turkey bacon, or even chicken ham instead of chicken for your street corn chicken rice bowls. Shrimp cooks up quickly and adds a fun seafood twist, while turkey bacon brings that smoky flavor without the extra fat. For those who prefer chicken, chicken ham can be a great alternative—just slice it up and stir it into your bowl for that savory kick.

Cooking tips and notes for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Tips for perfect flavor balance

Achieving the perfect flavor balance in your street corn chicken rice bowls starts with your seasoning blend. Make sure to evenly coat your chicken with spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika for that smoky kick. For the street corn, a squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the flavors and adds tanginess—don't skip this step! If you love heat, consider adding more jalapeño or even a splash of hot sauce to taste.

Recommendations for meal prep

These bowls are meal prep-friendly! Prepare components like the seasoned chicken and charred street corn in advance, storing them in separate airtight containers in the fridge. Cooked rice can also be made in large batches and frozen. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat everything and assemble your bowls—dinner will be ready in a flash! For more meal prep inspiration, check out this article on time-saving tips.

Serving suggestions for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Ideal pairings and garnishes

When crafting your delicious street corn chicken rice bowls, consider pairing them with complementary flavors and textures that truly elevate the dish. Here are some suggestions:

Fresh Avocado: Its creamy texture balances the heat and bright flavors beautifully.
Crispy Tortilla Strips: For that extra crunch, toss some homemade or store-bought tortilla strips on top.
Sliced Radishes: Their crispness adds a refreshing bite and a pop of color.
Lime Wedges: Serve with lime for a zesty kick that brightens the entire bowl.

Feel free to customize these bowls further! Want an extra kick? Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce. Need some greens? A simple side salad with mixed lettuce or a corn salad pairs wonderfully, too. For an even heartier meal, consider serving these bowls with a side of black beans or a refreshing cucumber salad. Enjoy exploring your flavors!

Time Breakdown for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Preparation time
Get ready to whip up these delicious street corn chicken rice bowls in just 10 minutes. This includes all the necessary chopping, measuring, and mixing. Your recipe station will be sparkling clean before you know it!

Cooking time
In only 15 minutes, you’ll be cooking up your seasoned chicken and charred corn to perfection. Keep an eye on those flavors melding together for a zesty kick!

Total time
All in all, you can serve these wonderful street corn chicken rice bowls in just 25 minutes. That's right, a flavorful dinner ready to impress in less than half an hour! Perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

Ready to dive into this tasty dish? Let’s get cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

When you're diving into a delicious bowl of street corn chicken rice bowls, knowing the nutritional breakdown is helpful for conscious eaters. Each serving contains approximately:

Calories: 679 kcal - A filling option for a balanced meal.
Protein: 47g - Perfect for muscle recovery and keeping you satiated.
Fat: 36g - Includes healthy fats, contributing to overall wellness.

These bowls not only delight your taste buds but also offer a wholesome dining experience! For more nutritional insights, check out the USDA's food data site.

FAQs about Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! To create gluten-free street corn chicken rice bowls, simply ensure that your seasonings and sauces (like mayonnaise and sour cream) are gluten-free. Additionally, serve the dish over gluten-free rice or choose an alternative like quinoa for added texture.

How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm everything in the microwave or on the stove, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. If you find the sauce has thickened, a splash of milk can help revive its creamy consistency!

What can I use instead of chicken?
If you’re looking for a meat-free option, consider sautéing shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas for a hearty substitute in your street corn chicken rice bowls. These alternatives will soak up all the delicious flavors just like the chicken and keep your meal satisfying.

Conclusion on Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

In conclusion, street corn chicken rice bowls are a delightful, vibrant meal option that combines convenience with rich flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, they allow for personalization to suit any palate. Give this recipe a try, and prepare for it to become a favorite in your home.

For more ideas and inspiration, explore Tastes Better from Scratch.