Oh, let me tell you about one of my absolute favorites—the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl! It’s one of those dishes that takes me back to sunny days spent at outdoor fairs with my friends, eating off little paper plates, and just soaking in the good vibes. The street corn is creamy, spicy, and oh-so-addictive, and when you pair it with tender chicken and a fluffy rice base, you’ve got a meal that’s bursting with flavor and joy!
I first stumbled upon this recipe during a summer barbecue a couple of years ago. My friend made it, and I was hooked after the very first bite. It’s such a unique blend of textures and flavors that it’s become a staple in my meal rotation. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep or a fun weeknight dinner when you want something special!
What’s in Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?
Chicken: I typically use boneless, skinless chicken thighs here because they are juicy and flavorful. You can use breasts if you prefer a leaner option, but be warned—thighs are the real MVP!
Rice: A fluffy bed of rice is essential. I use jasmine rice for its fragrant nature, but you can opt for brown rice or even cauliflower rice if you want a healthier twist.
Sweet Corn: Fresh corn is a must for that street corn flavor! If it’s not in season, canned or frozen works just fine, but fresh really elevates the whole dish.
Mayonnaise: This is a game-changer! It adds creaminess and richness to the corn mixture. Hints of lime juice mixed in give it that signature zesty kick.
Cheese: Cotija cheese is my favorite—it’s tangy and crumbly—perfect for sprinkling on top. Feta cheese can be a great substitute too if Cotija is hard to find.
Spices: You’ll need chili powder, smoked paprika, and lime. These spices not only flavor your chicken beautifully but also bring that wonderfully vibrant color to the dish.
Is Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Good for You?
Oh, you bet it is! This dish has a great balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats.
Chicken: Provides a solid source of protein, which is great for muscle-building and keeping you full.
Rice: Offers energy through carbohydrates, and when you choose a whole grain option, it adds fiber to your diet as well.
Corn: It’s not just delicious; it’s also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Sweet corn can be quite nutritious!
However, do keep in mind the creamy sauce and cheese adds calories, so just be mindful of your portions if you’re watching your intake.
Ingredients
– 2 cups of jasmine rice (serves about 4)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup sweet corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
– Lime wedges (for serving)
How to Make Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?
1. Start by cooking your rice according to package instructions. I usually opt for a 1:1.5 rice to water ratio for fluffy jasmine rice.
2. While the rice is cooking, heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Season the chicken thighs with chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss them into the hot skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Once done, remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
4. In the same skillet, add the corn and cook for about 2-3 minutes until it’s slightly charred. This gives it that delightful street corn feel.
5. In a bowl, mix the cooked corn with mayonnaise, lime juice, and half of the cotija cheese. Stir to combine everything.
6. To assemble, place a generous scoop of rice in your bowl, top with sliced chicken, and then spoon on that amazing corn mixture.
7. Finish with a sprinkle of the remaining cotija cheese, and if you’re feeling fancy, some freshly chopped cilantro and lime wedges on the side.
Serving Suggestions and Fun Variations
This bowl is quite versatile! You can swap out the rice for quinoa or even lettuce if you want a lighter meal.
Feeling adventurous? Add some diced avocados or jalapeños for extra kick and flavor. You can also drizzle some hot sauce over the top for those who like it spicy!
If you’re having a dinner party, consider making a little assembly line for guests to customize their bowls. It’s interactive and oh-so-fun!
I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you! I encourage you to give it a go. It’s a beautiful dish that blends together cheerful flavors and hearty ingredients—it’s bound to make your taste buds dance. After trying it, drop me a line and let me know how yours turned out! Happy cooking!
