This Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a delightful mix of juicy chicken, sweet corn, and fluffy rice, creating a colorful and tasty meal that’s perfect for any night! 🌽🍗
I love how simple this dish is to whip up after a long day. Just toss everything together and enjoy! Plus, you can top it off with your favorite sauce for an extra kick. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and easy to cook. You can substitute with thighs if you prefer juicier meat, or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice brings a nice texture. If you need a healthier choice, consider quinoa or brown rice instead. Both give a hearty feel to the dish!
Street-style corn: Use fresh corn for the best flavor, but canned corn is perfect for convenience. Look for fire-roasted canned corn for an added smoky taste!
Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack is great, but you can use any cheese you have on hand. Feta or queso fresco can add a unique twist!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Cooked Just Right?
Cooking chicken can be tricky! Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Start with medium-high heat and a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown color.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety. A meat thermometer works wonders!
- Let it rest before slicing—this keeps it juicy!
Remember, practice makes perfect, and soon you’ll be nailing it every time!
Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (jasmine or basmati)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup street-style corn (grilled or canned, drained)
- 1/2 cup black beans (optional)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes or pico de gallo
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema (optional)
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30 minutes total—10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This will add a delicious flavor to your chicken!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is fully cooked through and has a nice golden brown color. Remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
3. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using canned corn, simply heat it in a small pan until warmed through—this should take just a few minutes. If you have fresh or frozen corn, grill or sauté it until it’s slightly toasted for added flavor.
4. Assemble Your Bowls:
Grab two bowls and divide the cooked rice evenly between them. This will be the base of your delicious rice bowl!
5. Add the Toppings:
Now it’s time to top the rice! Add the sliced chicken, street-style corn, black beans (if you’re including them), and diced tomatoes over the rice.
6. Finish with Cheese and Cilantro:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese and chopped cilantro generously over the top of your bowls. It’ll add a wonderful layer of flavor!
7. Add Creamy Goodness:
If you’d like, add a dollop of sour cream or drizzle of Mexican crema for a creamy finish. This really makes everything come together beautifully!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Top your rice bowls with jalapeño slices, if desired, and place some lime wedges on the side. This way, you can squeeze fresh lime juice over your bowl right before eating for a splash of freshness.
9. Enjoy!
Serve your Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls immediately and enjoy your meal! Feel free to get creative with additional toppings like avocado or your favorite hot sauce!
FAQ for Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice is a great healthy alternative. Just note that it will take longer to cook, so make sure to adjust your cooking time accordingly—about 40-45 minutes usually works!
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’d like a meat-free option, you can easily swap the chicken for tofu, grilled shrimp, or even some hearty sautéed vegetables. Beans are also a fantastic protein source to consider!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water to keep the rice moist!
Is This Recipe Customizable?
Definitely! Feel free to play with the ingredients. You can add toppings like avocado, different cheese, or colorful veggies like bell peppers and zucchini for added flavor and nutrition. Make it your own!
