Oh boy, I can’t contain my excitement about sharing this Street Corn Chicken Bowl recipe with you! Every time I make this dish, it feels like summer, no matter what the season is. Growing up, I had a summer job at a local fair, and I remember the intoxicating smell of grilled corn slathered in mayonnaise and lime. This recipe brings back those delightful memories – it’s fresh, vibrant, and every bite feels like a fiesta on my plate!
What I love most about this bowl is its combination of bold flavors and textures. The sweet corn and succulent chicken make for a lovely duo, while the tangy lime and creamy cheese elevate the entire experience. It’s a crowd-pleaser, a one-bowl wonder, and perfect for weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. Let’s dive in!
What’s in Street Corn Chicken Bowl?
Chicken Breast: Tender, juicy chicken breast is the star of the show here. I recommend using fresh, organic chicken for the best flavor, but frozen works too if that’s what you have on hand.
Fresh Corn: Nothing beats fresh corn on the cob, especially when it’s in season! If you can’t find fresh corn, frozen corn is a great alternative and still taste spectacular.
Mayonnaise: This creamy spread is what ties the flavors together. It adds richness to the corn and creates a delightful base for the dish. I like using avocado oil mayonnaise for added health benefits!
Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese adds a salty bite that complements the sweetness of the corn perfectly. If you can’t find Cotija, feta cheese is a great substitute.
Lime Juice: A splash of lime juice adds that zesty tang we all love. Freshly squeezed lime is always best!
Cilantro: If you love it as much as I do, you can’t skip this ingredient! It brings a refreshing pop of flavor.
Spices: Paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, and cumin come together to give the chicken a kick of flavor that pairs beautifully with the corn.
Rice: I like to use brown rice or quinoa for a wholesome base, but feel free to switch it up with your favorite grains!
Is Street Corn Chicken Bowl Good for You?
You bet it is! This dish is packed with protein and fiber, thanks to the chicken and corn.
Chicken Breast: A great source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
Corn: This vibrant vegetable contains antioxidants and vitamins that are excellent for your overall health.
Cilantro: Not only does it taste amazing, but cilantro can help detoxify your body and is rich in vitamins K and C!
However, do keep in mind that the mayonnaise and cheese can add some calories and fat, so it’s all about balance. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your dietary needs, or swap out certain ingredients for healthier options.
Ingredients List
– 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa (serves about 4)
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups fresh corn, cut off the cob (or 1 can of corn)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or avocado oil mayo)
– 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
– Juice of 2 limes
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
How to Make Street Corn Chicken Bowl?
1. **Cook the Rice/Quinoa:** Start by cooking your rice or quinoa according to the package instructions. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Once it’s done, set it aside.
2. **Season the Chicken:** In a large bowl, mix the diced chicken with paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with all those flavorful spices.
3. **Cook the Chicken:** In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Take it off the heat and set aside.
4. **Prepare the Corn:** In the same skillet, add the fresh corn and cook for about 2-3 minutes until slightly charred. If using canned corn, just heat through.
5. **Mix the Corn Sauce:** In a bowl, mix the mayonnaise, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Toss the warm corn in this mixture until coated.
6. **Assemble the Bowls:** To plate, scoop a generous serving of rice or quinoa into each bowl. Top it with the seasoned chicken, the corn mixture, and sprinkle with Cotija cheese and fresh cilantro.
7. **Enjoy:** Grab a fork and dig in!
Fiesta Ideas for Serving
This recipe is wonderfully versatile! You can easily customize it by adding different veggies like avocado, bell peppers, or even black beans. If you want to switch up the flavors, try using different herbs like parsley or adding jalapeños for heat.
Also, don’t be shy about preparing a big batch – leftovers are perfect for lunch the next day! And you can always get creative with your toppings. A dollop of salsa or a dash of hot sauce brings a little extra party to your bowl!
I really hope you give this Street Corn Chicken Bowl a try! It’s sure to bring a smile to your face and a burst of flavor to your day. Don’t forget to share your experience with me! Happy cooking!
