Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl – Flavorful, Protein-Packed Dinner Idea

street corn chicken rice bowl

Hey there, friend! Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine? If you love bold flavors, then let me introduce you to the incredible Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl! It’s like a fiesta on your plate—complete with juicy chicken, vibrant veggies, and a twist of savory and tangy street corn. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a go-to in your meal prep! Plus, it’s nutritionally packed with protein, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and meal prepping for the week ahead.

Nutritional Benefits

You might be wondering, “What’s so great about this rice bowl?” Well, first off, chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, which helps keep you satiated and supports muscle health. Then there’s the corn! Not only is it sweet and delicious, but it’s also high in fiber and contains vitamins A, B, and antioxidants that are beneficial for your skin and eyesight. Throw in some fresh veggies, and you’ve got a colorful plate filled with nutrients. The best part? You can customize it based on your dietary needs!

Adaptable Variations to Make

• Swap the Protein: Not a fan of chicken? Feel free to use grilled shrimp, tofu, or even black beans for a vegetarian option!
• Different Grain Choices: Instead of rice, try quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even a bed of fresh greens if you’re looking to lighten it up.
• Add Some Heat! For spice lovers, add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha to the top! A little kick can really elevate the flavors.
• Vegan Delight: Swap the chicken for chickpeas and use vegan cheese for a delicious dairy-free option.

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup rice (white or brown)
• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 1 cup corn (canned, frozen, or fresh)
• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (any color you like!)
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup cotija cheese (or any cheese of choice, optional)
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking

Instructions

1. Start by cooking your rice according to package instructions. While the rice cooks, you can prepare the rest of the ingredients.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until fully cooked and golden brown, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Add corn and bell peppers to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the veggies to soften slightly.
4. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and divide it among serving bowls.
5. Top the rice with the chicken and corn mixture and don’t forget to add diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of cotija cheese, and a squeeze of lime juice on top!

Valuable Tips

• If you need to save some time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking yours from scratch!
• For an extra flavor boost, marinate your chicken in lime juice and chili spices for an hour before cooking.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep everything separate to maintain freshness!
• If you want to meal prep, package your grain, protein, and toppings separately for quick assembly during the week.

Equipment Needed

You won’t need much to whip up this flavorful bowl! Here’s what I recommend having on hand:

• A medium pot for cooking your rice
• A large skillet for sautéing
• A spatula for stirring
• A cutting board and knife for chopping
• A serving bowl for your finished product!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen corn? Absolutely! Frozen corn works perfectly—just add it straight to the skillet without thawing.
2. What can I use instead of cotija cheese? Feta or shredded cheddar cheese would be delicious substitutes!
3. How can I make this dish gluten-free? Just ensure your rice is gluten-free and that you use gluten-free spices and condiments.
4. How spicy is it? You control the heat! The chili powder adds flavor rather than intense heat, but feel free to adjust it to your liking.
5. Can I eat this cold? Of course! It can make a delicious lunch option right out of the fridge.

Now that you’re all set to make this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Feel free to share your photos and thoughts, and don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest for more exciting and delicious recipes just like this one. Happy cooking!