This Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, sweet corn, and fluffy rice. It’s like a flavor party in a bowl that you can whip up in no time!
You can top it with cheese or avocado for extra yumminess, but honestly, it’s so good that even plain will have you coming back for seconds! I love making this when I want something quick and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: I recommend using jasmine or basmati rice for their fluffy texture and fragrant aroma. If you’re looking for a healthier option, quinoa can work well too!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here. If you’re in a hurry, rotisserie chicken saves time. You can also use tofu for a plant-based choice!
Street Corn: For the corn, use fresh or frozen charred corn. If you can’t find street corn, regular corn works too, but add a bit of lime juice for extra flavor.
Cheese: I like using cheddar or Monterey Jack, but feel free to swap in pepper jack for a kick, or even leave it out for a dairy-free meal!
Sour Cream or Yogurt: Both options add creaminess. Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream for a healthier twist, but regular yogurt works too!
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll nail it! Start by cutting your chicken into uniform pieces, which helps them cook evenly.
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat before adding the chicken to get a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed to let them brown properly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Once cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving; it helps keep the chicken juicy!
Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (can be jasmine or basmati)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup street corn (charred corn kernels, fresh or frozen)
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Toppings:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Optional: sliced avocado, hot sauce, or diced red onion for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious rice bowl will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes getting everything ready and then roughly 20 minutes cooking. Quick, easy, and full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Street Corn Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. This will be your tasty street corn sauce. Set it aside for a moment.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While it’s heating, season the chicken pieces with a little salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and brown, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Add the Corn:
Next, add the street corn to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Give it a good stir and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the corn is warmed through and starting to char. This step adds an extra punch of flavor!
4. Combine with Sauce:
Lower the heat to low. Pour the street corn sauce into the skillet, stirring well to coat all the chicken and corn pieces evenly with that tasty sauce. It should smell wonderful!
5. Assemble the Bowls:
To serve, divide the cooked rice into bowls. Spoon your delicious chicken and corn mixture right on top of the rice. Don’t be shy—load it up!
6. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the chicken and corn while it’s warm so it melts a bit. Then, garnish with fresh cilantro. If you like, add some sliced avocado, a drizzle of hot sauce, or diced red onion for extra flavor fun.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Dig in while it’s warm and enjoy your easy, flavorful street corn chicken rice bowl! It’s a meal that’s sure to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice is a great healthier alternative. Just keep in mind that it takes longer to cook—about 40-45 minutes—so plan accordingly!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it up in a skillet on medium heat. Add a splash of water if it seems dry!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with your favorite plant-based protein, like tofu or tempeh, and use vegan mayonnaise and yogurt for the sauce. It’ll still be delicious!
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative! Some other great toppings include pico de gallo, diced bell peppers, or even crushed tortilla chips for added crunch. Choose what you love!
