Oh my goodness, friends! If you’ve ever wandered the bustling streets of Mexico, you’ve inevitably stumbled upon street corn, or as we call it “Elote”. This delightful dish brings together char-grilled corn, creamy toppings, and an explosion of flavors that just dance on your taste buds. Well, you can take that street food goodness and elevate it to a wholesome “Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl”!
Let me tell you; this recipe is not just one of my favorites because it’s incredibly delicious, but it also turns every meal into a festive occasion! I first made this bowl during a summer barbecue with friends, and it quickly became a hit! The combination of grilled chicken, vibrant, fresh corn, and zesty lime turns a simple weeknight dinner into something that feels so much more special. Plus, this bowl is totally customizable, so you can adapt it to your tastes!
What’s in Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?
Now, let’s talk about what makes this bowl not just tasty but also a colorful feast for your eyes!
Chicken: We’re using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, marinated to perfection. I go for thighs for their juiciness, but feel free to use whichever you fancy!
Corn: Fresh sweet corn is key! If it’s not corn season, frozen corn works just fine, though nothing beats the flavor of fresh. Just grill it for that charred goodness!
Lime: This vibrant fruit brightens the whole dish! Make sure you get fresh limes – they have that zesty punch that bottled lime juice just can’t compete with!
Cilantro: Fresh herbs always make a meal pop! I absolutely love cilantro for its refreshing taste, but if you’re not a fan, you can leave it out.
Rice: You can use any rice you like! I prefer brown rice for its nuttiness, but white rice can work just as well if you’re in a pinch.
Crema: Mexican crema or sour cream adds a creamy richness. It’s the glue that holds everything together and makes each bite delightful.
Is Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Good for You?
Now, let’s have a real chat about health. Each of these ingredients brings something to the table in terms of nutrition.
Chicken: Great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repairs and fills you up.
Corn: Loaded with fiber and vitamins, corn can aid in digestion and provide essential nutrients.
Lime: Not just for zest but packed with vitamin C which helps boost your immune system!
Cilantro: This herb isn’t just for flavor; it’s been linked to various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.
Rice: Depending on what you choose, brown rice is high in fiber whereas white rice provides quick energy. Choose according to your dietary needs.
Just keep in mind that moderation is key. If you’re keeping an eye on carbs or calories, you might want to lighten up on the rice or crema.
Ingredients
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
– 2 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or grilled)
– Juice of 2 limes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cups cooked rice (brown or white)
– 1/2 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
– 1 tsp chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder (for seasoning)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Additional lime wedges for serving
This recipe serves about 4 people, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week!
How to Make Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?
1. **Marinate the Chicken:** In a bowl, combine the chicken, juice of one lime, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (you can even do this overnight for extra flavor!).
2. **Cook the Chicken:** Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat, and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. **Prepare the Corn:** If you’re using fresh corn, grill it until it’s charred and sweet. If using frozen, just sauté it for a couple minutes in a pan until heated through.
4. **Make the Rice:** Cook your rice according to the package directions.
5. **Assemble the Bowls:** In a bowl, start with a scoop of rice, top with sliced chicken, corn, a dollop of crema, and sprinkle with cilantro. Squeeze fresh lime juice over everything for that zesty kick!
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Add extra lime wedges on the side for your guests to enjoy. Dig in and experience the fiesta in a bowl!
Fiesta Twists and Serving Suggestions
Now, here’s where you can get creative!
– **Add Avocado:** Sliced or diced avocado can bring that extra creaminess to the bowl!
– **Spicy Kick:** If you like a little heat, throw in some sliced jalapeños or drizzle some hot sauce on top!
– **Swap Out Ingredients:** Try using quinoa instead of rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
– **Make it Vegetarian:** Swap the chicken for grilled portobello mushrooms or even crispy tofu for a delightful twist.
This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is such a fun and vibrant dish to make and share. I can hardly wait for you to try it! Trust me, once you do, you’ll be tossing this into your regular meal rotation. And hey, don’t forget to share your creations with me – I love hearing about how your culinary adventures go! Enjoy!
