Introduction
Welcome to a burst of flavor with this delightful Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl! Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines tender, seasoned chicken with sweet corn, creamy sauce, and bright toppings that will transport your taste buds straight to a sun-drenched street market. Not only is it easy to whip up, but it’s also satisfying and full of vibrant tastes and textures. Let’s dive into this delicious meal that’s sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Hot sauce (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, along with chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the corn. For fresh corn, grill or sauté it until it develops a lovely char. If using frozen or canned corn, warm it in a separate pan until heated through.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, half of the crumbled cotija cheese, and chopped cilantro until well combined.
- Once the chicken and corn are ready, it’s time to assemble the rice bowls! Start with a generous layer of cooked rice as your base, followed by the flavorful chicken and sweet corn.
- Drizzle the creamy mayonnaise mixture over the assembled bowls. Finish by generously sprinkling the remaining cotija cheese, adding the delicious avocado slices, and garnishing with more cilantro if desired.
- Serve your bowls immediately, with hot sauce on the side for those who love a little extra heat!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize the toppings! Some chopped red onion or diced tomatoes can add an extra pop of freshness.
- If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a great shortcut, just shred it and mix it in!
- This meal is easily doubled for a larger crowd or meal prep for the week ahead. Store the components separately to keep everything fresh.
Cooking Techniques
Cooking the chicken to a golden brown not only enhances the flavor but also gives a lovely texture contrast to the creamy components of this dish. Charring the corn brings out its natural sweetness, adding depth to the bowls. Mixing the sauce in a separate bowl allows for easy mixing while ensuring a balanced flavor distribution when drizzled over your delicious creation.
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and more nutrients, making it a great alternative.
What if I don’t have cotija cheese?
You can substitute feta cheese or even queso fresco for a similar creamy and salty flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free, making it a wonderful option for gluten-sensitive diners.
Conclusion
This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s as easy to make as it is enjoyable to eat. With its colorful presentation and stunning mix of flavors and textures, it’s sure to brighten up any dinner table. Gather your loved ones—meal times spent together are always more meaningful, and this bowl will make it extra special! Enjoy every bite!