Name: Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups cooked rice; 2 lbs chicken breasts (sliced in half, to make thin filets); Seasonings: chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt and pepper; 2 Tablespoons olive oil; 2 ½ cups corn kernels (fresh cut from cob, or frozen); ½ of an onion diced onion; 1 small jalapeno (deveined and seeded, diced (optional)); 1/3 cup mayonnaise ((80g)); ½ cup Mexican crema or sour cream ((120g)); 2 ½ teaspoons tajin (or more, to taste); 1 small lime (juice from); 2-3 Tablespoons milk (to thin sauce); Pinch fine sea salt; 1 ripe avocado (chopped); ½ cup cotija cheese (shredded); ½ cup fresh cilantro (chopped); 1 lime cut into wedges

Introduction to Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

What are Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls?

Street corn chicken rice bowls are a delightful fusion of flavors that bring the essence of street food right to your dinner table. Imagine tender, seasoned chicken paired with sweet, charred corn, all mixed and topped with a creamy tajín-lime sauce. This comforting, easy-to-make dish offers a burst of vibrant Mexican-inspired tastes that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing it with friends, these bowls are not just a meal, they're an experience.

Why are they perfect for young professionals?

For young professionals juggling busy schedules, these bowls are a game changer. They’re quick to whip up, taking just about 25 minutes from start to finish—perfect for those hectic weeknights. Plus, the customizability means you can adjust the ingredients to fit your tastes or any dietary requirements.

Not only do they provide a complete meal with carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, but they also allow you to showcase your culinary skills without the time commitment. Who wouldn’t want to impress a guest with a delicious, home-cooked meal that’s made in a flash? Whether it’s a cozy night in or a quick dinner before friends come over, street corn chicken rice bowls are your go-to for a satisfying, delicious dinner option.

Ingredients for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

When it comes to creating those mouthwatering street corn chicken rice bowls, having the right ingredients on hand is essential. Here's a breakdown of everything you need to whip up this delicious dish.

Main Ingredients List

2 ½ cups cooked rice (for serving)
2 lbs chicken breasts (sliced thinly)
Seasonings: chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 ½ cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
½ onion, diced
1 small jalapeño, deveined and seeded (optional)
⅓ cup mayonnaise
½ cup Mexican crema or sour cream
2 ½ teaspoons tajín (to taste)
Juice of 1 small lime
2-3 tablespoons milk (to thin the sauce)
Pinch of fine sea salt

Optional Ingredients and Toppings

Get creative! You can enhance your street corn chicken rice bowls with:

1 ripe avocado, chopped
½ cup cotija cheese, shredded
½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 lime, cut into wedges

Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences! For even more ideas, explore what ingredients you might already have at home. Infusing local flavors can make your meal exciting too. Enjoy creating this fresh and satisfying dish!

Preparing Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Creating the perfect street corn chicken rice bowls is not only a delightful culinary adventure but also a fun way to spice up your weeknight dinner routine. Let’s walk through the steps together!

Gather and Prepare Ingredients

Before diving into cooking, it’s crucial to gather all your ingredients. This not only makes the process smoother but also ensures you have everything you need. Get the following ready:

2 ½ cups of cooked rice for serving
2 lbs of chicken breasts, sliced in half for thinner filets
Seasonings: chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper
2 ½ cups of corn kernels (fresh or frozen), ½ diced onion, and 1 small jalapeño (optional)
For the creamy sauce: ⅓ cup mayonnaise, ½ cup Mexican crema or sour cream, 2 ½ teaspoons tajín, lime juice, and milk.

Don’t forget any toppings you’d like, such as avocado, cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro! With everything on hand, you’re ready to get cooking.

Make the Creamy Tajín-Lime Sauce

Next up, whip up your creamy tajín-lime sauce. In a mix bowl, combine the mayonnaise and Mexican crema (or sour cream) for maximum creaminess. Squeeze in the juice of one lime, and sprinkle in the tajín. For a smoother consistency, gradually add milk until it reaches your desired thickness. This sauce adds a delicious tangy kick not just to the chicken, but to the entire bowl!

Season and Cook the Chicken

It’s time to focus on the star of the show: the chicken! Season your chicken filets generously with salt, pepper, and the other spices like chili powder and cumin. Heat a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil, and once it’s hot, cook the chicken until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). This step not only locks in flavor but also gives context to the textural contrast of your street corn chicken rice bowls.

Prepare the Street Corn Mixture

In the same skillet, toss in a bit more olive oil if needed and add your corn, onion, and jalapeño. Turn the heat up high and sauté the mixture while stirring occasionally. You’re looking for that lovely char on the corn, which usually takes about 4–5 minutes. Once it’s tender, stir in half of your creamy sauce to create a rich street corn mixture that’s bursting with flavor!

Assemble the Rice Bowls

With everything cooked, it’s time to assemble your street corn chicken rice bowls. Start by spooning cooked rice into a bowl, then layer on the seasoned chicken and a generous scoop of your street corn mixture. Top it off with chopped avocado, a sprinkle of cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro for a pop of color and taste. Don’t forget a wedge of lime on the side for an extra zing! For the finishing touch, drizzle the remaining sauce over the top.

And there you have it, a vibrant, flavor-packed bowl that’s sure to please your palate and impress your dinner guests! Enjoy your creation!

Variations on Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Vegetarian Option

For a delightful vegetarian twist on street corn chicken rice bowls, swap the chicken for roasted vegetables or a hearty mix of black beans and chickpeas. The charred corn still provides that sweet crunch, while you can amp up the flavor with smoky spices like smoked paprika and cumin. Top it all off with the creamy tajín-lime sauce, and you’ll have a satisfying meal that even meat-lovers will appreciate!

Different Protein Options

Looking to switch up the protein in your street corn chicken rice bowls? Tofu and shrimp are fantastic alternatives! For tofu, try marinating it in soy sauce and lime juice for extra flavor before sautéing. If you prefer shrimp, season them with the same spices as the chicken and cook them until they're pink and tender. Both options keep the dish vibrant and delicious, while still delivering that satisfying wow factor!

Explore these variations to keep your meals fresh and exciting!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Tips for seasoning
For your street corn chicken rice bowls, a well-balanced seasoning mix makes all the difference. Combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano to enhance the chicken’s flavor. Don’t be afraid to adjust these spices according to your taste, and always remember to season your corn as well for a cohesive flavor profile.

How to achieve the perfect char on corn
To get that delectable char on your corn, use a high heat setting in your skillet. Add a bit of oil and let it heat up before tossing in your corn and diced onions. Covering the skillet allows the corn to cook evenly while achieving that irresistible exterior. For more tips on achieving a perfect char, check out this helpful guide from Serious Eats.

Serving suggestions for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Ideal side dishes

To complement your street corn chicken rice bowls, consider serving a refreshing black bean salad or a zesty cabbage slaw. Both add a crunchy, vibrant contrast to the creamy goodness of the bowls while enhancing the Mexican flair. If you're in the mood for something hearty, grilled Mexican street corn (elote) can be a delightful addition. You can also try crispy tortilla chips with homemade guacamole for a fun snack on the side.

Beverage pairings

When it comes to drinks, consider a cool infused lemonade—think lime and mint—to balance the savory flavors of your meal. Another refreshing option is sparkling water with a hint of lime or grapefruit to cleanse the palate. For something a little sweeter, a mango or pineapple soda would pair excellently, bringing tropical vibes to your dining experience.

These pairings will enhance your street corn chicken rice bowls and make for a satisfying meal that friends and family will love!

Time breakdown for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Preparation time
Get started in just 10 minutes! This is your chance to chop ingredients and mix that delicious sauce. Prepping in advance means less stress during cooking.

Cooking time
The cooking magic happens in only 15 minutes. That’s all it takes to sear juicy chicken and sauté vibrant corn.

Total time
In just 25 minutes, you can have these flavorful street corn chicken rice bowls ready to serve. Perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something fresh and satisfying!

If you're looking for more exciting options, check out simple sauce recipes on Serious Eats for additional inspiration!

Nutritional Facts for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Calories
One serving of these delightful street corn chicken rice bowls packs approximately 679 calories. This meal is a satisfying option for a busy weeknight while still being deliciously indulgent.

Protein
Loaded with lean chicken, each bowl contains about 47 grams of protein. This makes it a great choice for those looking to fuel their day with hearty nutrition, especially post-workout.

Sodium
However, be mindful of its sodium content, which clocks in at around 803 mg per serving. To make a healthier version, consider reducing the amount of added salt or using lower-sodium alternatives for the sauce.

For more insights into balanced meals, check out this resource on dietary guidelines to help you customize your street corn chicken rice bowls to fit your individual needs!

FAQs about Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Can I make these bowls ahead?

Absolutely! These Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls are a fantastic make-ahead option. You can prepare the chicken and street corn mixture in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat and assemble over freshly cooked rice. This way, you enjoy a quick meal without the fuss!

What if I can't find tajín?

No worries if you can't find tajín! You can substitute it with a combination of chili powder and a squeeze of lime. Alternatively, if you have access to Mexican seasoning blends or chili lime seasoning, those can work beautifully in your bowls, too. Just adjust the quantity to suit your taste!

How can I make them spicier?

If you're looking to kick up the heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the street corn mixture. You could also use a spicy marinade for the chicken or swap in hotter chili powders. Don’t shy away from getting adventurous with your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls!

Conclusion on Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

These street corn chicken rice bowls are a delicious and vibrant option for weeknight dinners, combining rich flavors and textures that everyone will love. Quick to prepare, they're fully customizable to suit your taste, making them the perfect go-to meal for busy professionals. Enjoy every bite!