This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a colorful and tasty meal! Juicy chicken, sweet corn, and fluffy rice come together, topped with zesty lime and creamy sauce for a fiesta in a bowl.
Eating this bowl feels like a mini vacation! I love how easy it is to whip up—just cook the chicken, mix the flavors, and dig in. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: I recommend using white rice for this bowl, as it’s fluffy and absorbs flavors well. If you’re looking for something healthier, brown rice or cauliflower rice works nicely, too.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great choice for this recipe, but thighs can be more flavorful and juicy. You could also use plant-based chicken if you want a vegetarian option.
Corn: Fresh corn really stands out in this dish, but canned corn is a quick substitute. If you have frozen corn, just thaw it beforehand; it’s delicious too!
Mayonnaise: Traditional mayo adds creaminess, but you can experiment with Greek yogurt for a lighter touch or even vegan mayo if you’re avoiding eggs.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a vibrant flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley or green onions can be used instead, though it will slightly alter the taste.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
Cooking chicken can sometimes be tricky! To make sure it’s juicy and flavorful, marinate it well. Here’s how:
- Coat the chicken evenly with your spice mix and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Longer is even better if you have the time.
- When cooking, don’t rush it! Use a medium-high heat and make sure the pan is properly heated before adding the chicken.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute before you slice it. This keeps it moist!
How to Make a Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Street Corn:
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- A pinch of salt
For Garnishing:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional: sour cream or Greek yogurt for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes for cooking, so you’ll spend around 30-35 minutes in total. The chicken needs a little time to marinate, which helps to infuse great flavors into the dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by making a flavorful marinade for the chicken. In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Take the chicken breasts and rub this mixture all over them, ensuring they’re well coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes—this is the perfect time to let those flavors soak in!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Once the chicken is done marinating, heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken in the pan and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to be fully cooked and have a nice golden brown color. After cooking, remove the chicken from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes before slicing it into cubes.
3. Prepare the Street Corn:
In a small bowl, mix the corn kernels with the mayonnaise, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. If you enjoy warm corn, feel free to heat it up before mixing. This will add a lovely, warm touch to your dish!
4. Assemble the Rice Bowl:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! In serving bowls, place a generous scoop of the cooked rice as your base. Top the rice with the sliced chicken cubes and the street corn mixture. If you like, drizzle some sour cream or Greek yogurt over the top for extra creaminess!
5. Garnish and Serve:
To finish it off, sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the entire bowl for a burst of freshness and flavor. Serve immediately, and enjoy your delicious Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating. To thaw, ideally place it in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can submerge the chicken in cold water in a sealed bag for a quicker thaw. Pat dry before applying the marinade to ensure it adheres well.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a light sour cream. For a dairy-free alternative, try using avocado or a mix of mashed avocado and lime juice for creaminess.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best texture, keep the rice and chicken separate from the corn mixture until ready to eat. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Rice Bowl?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in other vegetables such as bell peppers, black beans, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the chicken or mix them into the bowl for a refreshing crunch.
