Introduction
If you’re looking for a dish that balances flavor, texture, and nutrition, look no further than the Street Corn Chicken Bowl. This vibrant, hearty meal brings the best of street food into your kitchen, combining juicy chicken, sweet corn, and a medley of spices that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe is not only easy to follow but also incredibly satisfying. In this post, we’ll guide you step-by-step to create your own irresistible Street Corn Chicken Bowl.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
To make the perfect Street Corn Chicken Bowl, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Timing
This Street Corn Chicken Bowl can be prepared in about 30-40 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. Here’s the breakdown:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
- Total Time: 30-40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This will infuse the chicken with a delicious flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 3: Prepare the Corn
If using frozen corn, cook it according to package instructions. If using fresh corn, you can grill or sauté it in the same skillet for added flavor. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and lime juice until smooth. This tangy dressing adds creaminess and ties all the flavors together.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowl
In a serving bowl, layer the cooked rice as the base. Top with sliced chicken, corn, crumbled feta, and avocado. Drizzle the lime mayo dressing over the top, and finish with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking to make your Street Corn Chicken Bowl a bit healthier, consider the following substitutions:
- Use grilled chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor and juiciness.
- Swap out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to reduce fat and increase protein.
- Opt for brown rice or quinoa for a higher fiber content.
- Include more vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, for added nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
This Street Corn Chicken Bowl can be served in many delicious ways. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Pair with a side of tortilla chips and salsa for a complete meal.
- Top with jalapeños for an extra kick.
- Serve with a refreshing salad on the side.
- Make it a burrito bowl by adding beans and wrapping it all in a tortilla.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Street Corn Chicken Bowl turns out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcooking the chicken, which can lead to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F).
- Not seasoning your ingredients properly. Each component needs flavor to shine.
- Using low-quality corn. Fresh or high-quality frozen corn will make a big difference in taste.
- Skipping the resting time for the chicken can result in juices running out when you slice it.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store your Street Corn Chicken Bowl:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Add a splash of water to keep the rice moist.
- For longer storage, freeze the chicken and corn separately for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
The Street Corn Chicken Bowl is a delightful dish that combines the best flavors of street food with a healthy twist. With its vibrant colors and rich textures, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying it for dinner or meal prepping for the week, this bowl is as versatile as it is delicious. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor the irresistible flavors of this Street Corn Chicken Bowl!
PrintIrresistible Street Corn Chicken Bowl Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A flavorful and hearty Street Corn Chicken Bowl, perfect for a quick meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the seasoned chicken in a skillet over medium heat for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
- Prepare corn by cooking according to package instructions or grilling/sautéing fresh corn.
- Mix mayonnaise and lime juice in a small bowl to create the dressing.
- Assemble the bowl with rice, chicken, corn, feta, avocado, and drizzle with lime mayo dressing, garnished with cilantro.
Notes
- Feel free to customize with additional toppings like jalapeños or salsa.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with grilled vegetables or chickpeas.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian option.
What can I use instead of feta cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta, you can use goat cheese, cotija cheese, or even omit it altogether for a lighter version.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes! Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken seasoning to increase the heat level.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free rice and mayonnaise, this recipe can be made gluten-free.
How can I meal prep this recipe?
Prepare the chicken, corn, and rice in advance, and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the bowls as needed throughout the week for fresh meals.