Name: Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2.5 cups cooked rice (for serving); 2 lbs chicken breasts (sliced in half, to make thin filets); 2 Tablespoons olive oil; 1 to taste seasonings (chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt and pepper); 2.5 cups corn kernels (fresh cut from cob, or frozen); 0.5 of an onion onion (diced); 1 small jalapeño (deveined and seeded, diced (optional)); 0.33 cup mayonnaise ((80g)); 0.5 cup Mexican crema or sour cream ((120g)); 2.5 teaspoons tajín (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); 0.5 cup cotija cheese (shredded); 0.5 cup fresh cilantro (chopped); 1 lime lime (cut into wedges)

Introduction to Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Why You’ll Love Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

If you're on the hunt for a satisfying and delicious meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, these street corn chicken rice bowls will quickly become a go-to favorite. They’re not just a feast for your taste buds; they bring a vibrant mix of flavors that makes every bite a delightful experience. Imagine tender, seasoned chicken paired with sweet charred corn, all balanced by a zesty tajín-lime sauce—it’s like taking a trip to your favorite street food vendor without leaving your home.

What makes these bowls particularly appealing is their versatility. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting out, the recipe is simple and can be tailored to fit your dietary preferences. Want to lighten it up? Swap in cauliflower rice. Craving extra crunch? Toss in some fresh veggies.

Moreover, with a prep time of just 10 minutes and total cooking under 25 minutes, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal on a weeknight! Check out our full recipe for quick and foolproof steps to achieve this flavorful feast. Your weeknight dinners are about to get a whole lot more exciting!

For more tips on using fresh ingredients, check out this guide on cooking with seasonal produce from Food Network.

Ingredients for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Creating delightful Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls begins with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need.

Essential Ingredients for the Chicken

The star of your bowl is juicy chicken! Gather:

2 lbs chicken breasts: Slice them in half for thinner filets, promoting even cooking.
Seasonings: Combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper for a flavor-packed punch.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for searing your chicken to golden perfection.

Key Ingredients for the Street Corn

Next, let’s focus on the vibrant street corn:

2 ½ cups corn kernels: Fresh corn is preferred, but frozen can work in a pinch.
½ of an onion, diced: For added depth and sweetness.
1 small jalapeño (optional): If you enjoy a slight kick.

Ingredients for the Creamy Sauce

Finally, your bowl’s creamy sauce will tie all the elements together:

⅓ cup mayonnaise
½ cup Mexican crema or sour cream: Both add delightful creaminess.
2 ½ teaspoons tajín: This seasoning brings that characteristic zest.
Juice from 1 small lime: Brightens up the flavors.
2-3 tablespoons milk: To achieve your desired sauce thickness.
A pinch of fine sea salt: For balanced seasoning.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re just moments away from a delicious meal that’s sure to impress. For more tips on prep techniques or flavor enhancements, check out this guide on flavor layering. Happy cooking!

Step-by-step Preparation of Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Creating your own Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls at home is a delightful way to explore bold Mexican flavors. Not only are they quick to prepare, but they also deliver a satisfying, fresh meal that can easily accommodate your preferences. Follow this step-by-step guide to make the magic happen in your kitchen!

Prepare your ingredients

Start by gathering everything you need for your street corn chicken rice bowls. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable:

Chicken: Slice your 2 lbs of chicken breasts in half; this will ensure they cook evenly and quickly.
Corn: If you’re using fresh corn, cut it off the cob to yield about 2 ½ cups. Alternatively, frozen corn works just fine!
Vegetables: Dice ½ onion and a small jalapeño (optional, but recommended for a kick!).
Seasonings: Gather chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. You’ll want to have these handy for flavoring the chicken.
Sauce: You'll need mayonnaise, Mexican crema or sour cream, tajín, lime, milk, and a pinch of sea salt.

Make the creamy tajín-lime sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the following to create the creamy sauce that ties everything together:

⅓ cup mayonnaise
½ cup Mexican crema or sour cream
2 ½ teaspoons tajín (adjust according to your spice preference)
Juice from 1 small lime
2-3 tablespoons of milk to achieve your desired consistency
A pinch of fine sea salt

Mix it all until it’s smooth, and set this aside. This sauce is a true game changer, providing that creamy, zesty note that elevates the whole dish!

Season and cook the chicken

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle your desired seasonings (salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, oregano) generously on both sides of the chicken filets. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken in the skillet. Cook until browned and fully cooked through (165°F inside), flipping once. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken and let it rest on a plate before slicing it into strips.

Char the corn and mix with sauce

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then throw in the corn, diced onion, and jalapeño. Increase the heat to high, cover with a lid, and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the corn is nicely charred and tender. Once finished, stir in half of the tajín-lime sauce to create a deliciously creamy street corn mixture. This step not only adds flavor but is a beautiful nod to traditional street corn served in Mexico.

Assemble the rice bowls

Now the fun part! Start by spooning 2 ½ cups of cooked rice into each bowl. Layer on the chicken strips and generously scoop the creamy street corn mixture over the top. Don’t forget to finish with avocado chunks, shredded cotija cheese, and fresh chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges for an extra zest and, if you're feeling indulgent, drizzle a bit more of that creamy sauce on top.

Enjoy your homemade Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls! Not only are they a feast for the eyes, but they are bursting with flavor—perfect for a casual dinner that's sure to impress!

For more delicious recipes and inspiration, don't forget to check out resources from culinary experts or blogs that focus on authentic Mexican cuisine!

Variations of Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

For a kick of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a spicy chili powder blend to your street corn chicken rice bowls. You might even drizzle in a bit of hot sauce for extra flavor. The charred corn combined with spicy chicken creates an exciting dish that elevates your weeknight dinner. Pair it with cooling toppings like avocado and cilantro to balance the spice.

Vegetarian Version

If you’re leaning towards a lighter, plant-based meal, swapping the chicken for seasoned grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu works wonders. You can still enjoy that delectable creamy street corn mixture atop a bed of rice, making for a satisfying vegetarian bowl that’s full of flavor. Try tossing in some black beans for added protein, or even adding a touch of lime zest for an added zing!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Ingredient Quality Matters

When crafting your street corn chicken rice bowls, always opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients. Fresh corn enhances sweetness and texture, while using organic chicken can make a significant difference in flavor. Check your herbs and spices for freshness, as they can elevate your dish remarkably. For more info on selecting quality ingredients, check out resources like TheKitchn and Serious Eats.

Tips for Perfect Chicken

To ensure your chicken is succulent and flavorful, slice the breasts into thin fillets for even cooking. Marinade them for at least 30 minutes—if time allows—to let the spices penetrate. Cook over medium heat in a hot skillet for a perfect sear, flipping only once to maintain juices.

How to Ensure Perfect Char on Corn

For that sought-after char, use high heat and a bit of oil when sautéing your corn and onion. Don’t overcrowd the pan, and resist the urge to stir constantly. Letting them sit allows a beautiful golden crust to form, enhancing the overall flavor of your street corn chicken rice bowls. A splash of lime juice just before serving will add a bright finish!

Serving Suggestions for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Creative toppings

Elevate your street corn chicken rice bowls by adding a variety of toppings that pack a flavor punch! Consider drizzling extra creamy tajín-lime sauce on top or adding a sprinkle of Feta cheese for a tangy twist. You can also include sliced pickled red onions for a zesty crunch or diced fresh jalapeños to amp up the heat. Don’t shy away from fresh herbs like chopped mint or green onions to bring a vibrant freshness to each bite.

Pairing side dishes

Complete your meal with some delightful side dishes. A crisp cabbage slaw or grilled asparagus pairs beautifully, providing a balance to the rich flavors of the bowls. You could also whip up some spicy black bean salad—rich in protein and fiber, it's a fantastic complement to your street corn chicken rice bowls. If you fancy something light, serve with a refreshing watermelon salad to cleanse the palate.

For more inspiration on side dishes, check out recipes from Serious Eats or explore flavorful options at AllRecipes.

Time Breakdown for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Preparation Time
You'll need about 10 minutes to prepare all the ingredients for these flavorful street corn chicken rice bowls. This includes chopping the vegetables and mixing the delicious sauce.

Cooking Time
The cooking process takes approximately 15 minutes, featuring everything from sautéing the chicken to charring the corn for that smoky flavor we crave.

Total Time
In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a vibrant and satisfying meal that serves five people — perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet delicious!

For more meal inspiration, check out this article on healthy weeknight dinners.

Feel free to adjust the cooking time as necessary based on your kitchen skills or equipment. Enjoy your cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Calories

Each serving of these delicious street corn chicken rice bowls contains approximately 679 calories. This makes it an excellent choice for a hearty meal without going overboard.

Protein Content

Packed with 47 grams of protein per bowl, these rice bowls are a fantastic option for those looking to boost their protein intake. The chicken serves as a great source to support muscle recovery and overall well-being.

Key Vitamins and Minerals

These bowls are not only tasty but also nutritious. They offer:

Vitamin A: 494 IU (essential for eye health)
Vitamin C: 21 mg (boosts immune function)
Calcium: 158 mg (strengthens bones)
Iron: 2 mg (supports energy levels)

For more in-depth nutritional benefits, check out sources like the USDA FoodData Central to dive into the specifics of each ingredient!

As you enjoy this meal, you're not only treating your taste buds but also fueling your body with essential nutrients, making these street corn chicken rice bowls a smart weekly dinner choice.

FAQs about Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the street corn chicken rice bowls in advance. Cook the chicken and prepare the street corn mixture, then store them separately in the fridge. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat everything, assemble your bowls, and enjoy! This is a great option for meal prepping for busy weekdays.

What can I substitute for the mayonnaise?

If you're looking to replace mayonnaise in the street corn chicken rice bowls, consider using Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. It offers creaminess and a tangy flavor that enhances the dish. Alternatively, you can use avocado or a plant-based mayo to maintain that rich texture without the eggs.

How can I add more vegetables?

There are plenty of ways to amp up the veggie content in your bowls! Try adding diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even black beans for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also toss in some leafy greens like spinach or kale for a fresh crunch. The options are endless, so get creative!

Conclusion on Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

These street corn chicken rice bowls are a delightful fusion of flavors, making them an ideal choice for any weeknight dinner. With their quick prep time and hearty ingredients, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again. Enjoy customizing them to your taste, and happy cooking!