Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Name: Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded (Can be boiled, grilled, or baked); 2 cups canned street corn (Drain and rinse before use); 2 cups cooked rice (Cilantro lime rice is recommended for flavor); 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (For freshness and flavor); 1/4 cup lime juice (Fresh lime juice preferred); 1/2 cup sour cream (To create the dressing); 1 tsp smoked paprika (For flavor in the dressing); to taste Salt and pepper; Optional toppings: avocado, lime wedges, jalapeños (Customize your bowls)

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls are a delightful dish that combines all of the rich flavors of traditional elote-style street corn with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a smoky dressing. This recipe takes inspiration from street food vendors who serve up corn on the cob slathered in creamy mixtures and spices. The mix of textures and flavors provides a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep!

With the right ingredients, you can bring this delicious street food experience right into your kitchen. This recipe is easy to follow and requires just a few simple steps and ingredients. You will be amazed at how quickly you can whip up a bowl that brings the vibrant flavors of the street to your dining table. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxing weekends, these rice bowls are a treat that never disappoints.

Why make this recipe

There are many reasons to make Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls. First and foremost, they are incredibly tasty. The combination of savory chicken, sweet corn, and zesty dressing creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Additionally, they are very easy to prepare. With minimal cooking required, this recipe is approachable even for those who might not consider themselves expert cooks.

Another reason to love these rice bowls is their versatility. You can easily modify the recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you want to add some heat with jalapeños or make it vegetarian by replacing chicken with another protein, the possibilities are endless. Furthermore, this dish is a great way to utilize leftovers, making it a practical choice that helps reduce food waste.

Finally, Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare several servings in advance, making it simple to grab a healthy and satisfying meal during your busy week. Just reheat, add some toppings, and enjoy!

How to make Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Making Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls is a straightforward process. Begin by gathering your ingredients and setting up your cooking space. This will help make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Once you’re ready, the first step is to prepare your chicken. If you do not already have shredded chicken on hand, you can easily cook a pound of chicken breast by boiling, grilling, or baking it. After cooking, shred the chicken and set it aside. Next, grab your canned street corn. Drain and rinse the corn to get rid of any excess liquid before mixing it into your chicken.

Now it’s time to mix everything together. In one bowl, combine your cooked chicken, street corn, and lime juice. Then, in another bowl, prepare the smoky dressing by mixing sour cream, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

When everything is ready, it’s time to assemble your bowls. Start with a base layer of cilantro lime rice, and top it with your chicken and corn mixture. Finally, drizzle the smoky dressing on top and add any optional toppings you desire. And that’s it – simple as pie!

Ingredients:

1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
2 cups canned street corn
2 cups cooked rice
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup lime juice
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: avocado, lime wedges, jalapeños

Directions:

To begin making your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls, follow these simple steps:

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, street corn, and lime juice. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to ensure the chicken and corn are well coated with the zesty lime flavor.

Step 2: In a separate bowl, create the smoky dressing. Mix the sour cream, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: To serve, layer the cilantro lime rice into serving bowls. Next, add the chicken and corn mixture on top, drizzling the smoky dressing over it. Finish with any optional toppings if you desire. Serve immediately for the best flavor!

Time Breakdown

The total time to prepare and serve Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls is about 30 minutes. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Cooking chicken (if not pre-cooked): 15-20 minutes
Preparing other ingredients: 5 minutes
Assembling the bowls: 5 minutes

This makes it a perfect quick meal when you want something fresh and filling without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to serve Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls can be served in various ways. You could place the ingredients neatly in a bowl, allowing everyone to see the colorful layers. The bright yellow corn, tender chicken, and vibrant cilantro create a beautiful presentation.

Additionally, feel free to offer optional toppings in small bowls on the side. This allows everyone to customize their bowls to their liking. Lime wedges and avocado slices are great for adding freshness, while jalapeños can provide that extra heat for spice lovers.

How to store Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! Storing these rice bowls is easy. Simply place any leftover chicken corn mixture into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. Be sure to store the cilantro lime rice in a separate container to maintain its texture.

Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you are ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the microwave until heated through. Be mindful that the avocado may brown, so it’s best to add it fresh when serving.

Tips to make Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Here are some simple tips to enhance your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls:

For more flavor, marinate the chicken in lime juice and spices before cooking. This will infuse the meat with a zesty taste.
Use fresh corn when it’s in season for an even better flavor. You can grill it and then cut the kernels off the cob for a delicious twist.
Adjust the creaminess of the dressing based on your personal preference. If you prefer it richer, add a bit more sour cream.
You can use brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier option. This adds more fiber and nutrients to your meal!

Variation

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls are very versatile! If you’re looking to switch things up, consider some of these variations:

For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with black beans or grilled veggies, such as bell peppers and zucchini.
Swap out the sour cream for Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor that’s also a bit healthier.
Experiment with different types of rice. Cauliflower rice works well for a low-carb version.
Add more toppings, such as diced tomatoes or shredded cheese for extra flavor and color.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

While specific nutritional information may vary depending on portion sizes and additional ingredients used, a typical serving of Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls may include:

Calories: 450-550
Protein: 30-40g
Carbohydrates: 40-50g
Fat: 15-20g
Fiber: 4-6g

This balanced meal provides a good source of protein, carbohydrates to fuel your day, and healthy fats, making it a satisfying option.

FAQs

Can I make Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls ahead of time?
Yes! These bowls are great for meal prepping. You can prepare most components in advance and assemble them at mealtime.

What can I substitute for chicken?
You can use tofu, black beans, or grilled shrimp as alternatives. These substitutions create a different but still delicious meal.

What’s the best way to cook chicken for this recipe?
Grilling, baking, or boiling the chicken works well. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before shredding.

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls are sure to be a hit at your next meal! With their vibrant flavors and ease of preparation, these rice bowls bring a taste of the street to your dining experience. Enjoy!