Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Introduction

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a vibrant, flavorful meal inspired by the beloved Mexican street food, Elote. Combining tender grilled chicken, savory street corn, and a base of fluffy rice, this dish brings the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and smoky flavors. Topped with a tangy lime crema and fresh cilantro, it’s an incredibly satisfying and fresh meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

I first made this bowl when I was craving something bold and exciting for dinner, and it quickly became a family favorite. The smoky, charred street corn adds a delicious depth of flavor, while the grilled chicken and creamy lime crema tie everything together beautifully. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch, a dinner that’s packed with flavor, or a meal prep idea that’s as tasty as it is easy, this bowl is perfect for all occasions.

What’s great about the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is how customizable it is. You can adjust the heat level with a dash of chili powder, add your favorite toppings like avocado or cheese, or even switch the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter twist. No matter how you make it, this dish is sure to impress!

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Meal prep
• Taco nights
• Grilled chicken lovers
• Fans of Mexican street food

Why You’ll Love This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Here’s why the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl will be your new go-to:

• Savory and Smoky: The grilled chicken and charred street corn bring rich, smoky flavors that perfectly complement the creamy lime crema.
• Perfectly Balanced: The combination of juicy chicken, sweet corn, fresh rice, and tangy toppings creates a harmonious and satisfying meal.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the level of spice, toppings, or protein to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Quick and Easy: This bowl is easy to assemble, making it perfect for a hassle-free weeknight meal or packed lunch.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The crisp corn and vibrant cilantro add a fresh and zesty bite that makes this bowl a delightful option for any occasion.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4 bowls
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 50g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
• 2 ears of corn, husked
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken Breast: Provides lean protein and pairs perfectly with the smoky, spicy flavors of the corn and seasonings.
• Street Corn: The charred corn adds a smoky sweetness and is the heart of this dish, giving it an authentic street food vibe.
• Lime Crema: A zesty lime crema brings tanginess and creaminess, perfectly complementing the bold flavors of the bowl.
• Rice: The rice provides a comforting base, soaking up all the delicious flavors and making the dish hearty and filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls:

Prepare the Chicken and Corn:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked (165°F internal temperature).
   • Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest before slicing into thin strips.
2. Grill the Corn:
   • Place the corn on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until it’s charred and tender.
   • Once cooked, remove the corn from the grill and slice the kernels off the cob.

Make the Lime Crema:

3. Prepare the Crema:
   • In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and chili powder (if using).
   • Stir until smooth and set aside.

Assemble the Bowl:

4. Cook the Rice:
   • Cook the rice according to the package instructions. Set aside.
5. Assemble the Bowls:
   • Start with a layer of rice in each bowl.
   • Top with the grilled chicken, charred corn, and a drizzle of the lime crema.
   • Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a complete meal, but here are a few serving suggestions:

• With a Side Salad: Serve with a simple side salad or some extra vegetables for added freshness.
• For Meal Prep: This bowl is perfect for meal prep! Simply store the ingredients in separate containers and assemble the bowls when ready to eat.
• Tacos: If you’re in the mood for tacos, serve the chicken and corn in warm tortillas for a fun twist on the rice bowl.
• With Avocado: Add some sliced avocado or guacamole for extra creaminess.

Additional Tips for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Here are some tips to ensure your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls turn out perfectly every time:

• Grill the Corn for Extra Flavor: The more charred the corn, the more intense the smoky flavor. Don’t be afraid to get some nice grill marks on it!
• Customize the Toppings: Add your favorite toppings like crumbled queso fresco, pickled onions, or a drizzle of hot sauce for more flavor.
• Use Brown Rice: For a healthier version, swap the white rice for brown rice for more fiber and nutrients.
• Make it Spicy: If you like things spicy, add diced jalapeños to the corn or drizzle the crema with some hot sauce.
• Grill the Chicken Ahead of Time: Grill extra chicken and store it in the fridge for a quick meal later in the week.

Recipe Variations for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Here are a few variations of the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl to try:

• Beef Street Corn Bowl: Swap the chicken for grilled steak or ground beef for a different protein option.
• Vegetarian Bowl: Skip the chicken and add more grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions for a vegetarian version.
• Shrimp Street Corn Bowl: Use grilled shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood-inspired bowl.
• Spicy Street Corn Bowl: Add diced jalapeños to the corn or mix in a bit of chipotle in the crema for an extra kick.
• BBQ Chicken Street Corn Bowl: Swap the seasoning for BBQ sauce on the chicken for a smoky-sweet twist.

Freezing and Storage for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

• Freezing: The chicken can be grilled and frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to use, reheat the chicken and corn and assemble the bowls as usual.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the crema separate to prevent it from making the rice soggy.

Special Equipment for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Here are a few special equipment items to make preparing your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls easier:

• Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill: Essential for grilling the chicken and corn.
• Rice Cooker: A rice cooker can help you make perfectly cooked rice every time.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is necessary for slicing the chicken and corn off the cob.
• Mixing Bowl: A small bowl to mix the crema.
• Meal Prep Containers: Perfect for storing the ingredients if you’re making this as part of meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

1. Can I make this bowl with a different protein?
   Yes! You can swap the chicken for beef, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein.
2. Can I make this bowl vegetarian?
   Absolutely! Skip the chicken and add more grilled vegetables for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
3. Can I make the crema ahead of time?
   Yes, you can make the crema a day ahead and store it in the fridge until ready to use.
4. Can I use frozen corn?
   Fresh corn is best for this dish, but you can use frozen corn if necessary. Just make sure to sauté or grill it for added flavor.
5. Can I meal prep this dish?
   Yes! Grill the chicken and corn ahead of time, and store everything separately for easy meal prep.

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Conclusion

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings the bold tastes of Mexican street food into your home. With tender grilled chicken, smoky street corn, and a creamy lime crema, this bowl is perfect for a quick weeknight meal, a crowd-pleasing dinner, or even meal prep for the week. Its customizable nature ensures you can make it your own, while the fresh, vibrant ingredients create a truly delicious experience. Give this recipe a try, and it’s sure to become a family favorite!

This recipe is as fun to prepare as it is to eat, making it perfect for everything from casual dinners to festive gatherings. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying it solo, this rice bowl is a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

I’d love to see how your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!