This Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl combines juicy chicken with sweet corn and fluffy rice. It’s a colorful and tasty meal that’s quick to make on weeknights!
You can top it with your favorite sauces for an extra kick! I usually add a bit of spicy salsa because, why not make it fun? 🌽🍗
This bowl is a lifesaver for busy days. Just cook the chicken, mix in corn and rice, and you’re ready to eat! It’s yummy and filling—perfect for the whole family!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Rice: White rice is classic, but I often use brown rice for added fiber. Quinoa can also work for a gluten-free option!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are great. If you’d like to save time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut!
Street-Style Corn: I love grilling fresh corn, but canned corn is convenient too. Just rinse it well to reduce sodium. You can even use frozen corn—just thaw it before adding.
Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack gives a nice creamy texture. If you’re looking for dairy-free, try a plant-based cheese or skip cheese altogether for a lighter dish.
Seasonings: The chili powder and smoked paprika add warmth and depth. If you prefer less spice, reduce the chili powder or swap it for a mild paprika.
How Can I Cook Chicken Perfectly for This Bowl?
The key to juicy chicken is cooking it just right! Here’s how:
- Start your skillet on medium-high and add olive oil; let it heat up.
- Coat the chicken with spices to enhance flavor—don’t skip this step!
- Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer; the chicken should reach 165°F internally.
- Rest the chicken for a few minutes to let the juices settle before slicing. This helps keep it juicy!
Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken every time for your rice bowl!
How to Make an Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup street-style corn (grilled or canned corn kernels)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Optional toppings: sour cream, sliced avocado, jalapeño slices, hot sauce or salsa
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook—perfect for a quick and satisfying meal! Just cook the chicken, warm the corn, and assemble it all together. Easy peasy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by preheating a skillet over medium-high heat and adding the olive oil. While it heats up, season the chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This will add a burst of flavor!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked (it should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F). Once done, remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Then slice it into strips.
3. Warm the Corn:
While the chicken is cooking, take your corn (whether it’s fresh grilled or canned) and warm it in a separate pan or microwave until it’s just heated through. It won’t take long, just a minute or so!
4. Assemble the Bowls:
Now, it’s time to put it all together! Divide the cooked rice evenly into bowls. Top each bowl with the sliced chicken, warmed corn, and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese. Yum!
5. Add Final Touches:
Garnish the bowls with fresh cilantro and squeeze a wedge of lime over the top for a burst of freshness. Feeling adventurous? Add any optional toppings like sour cream, avocado slices, or jalapeños to give your bowls extra flair!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the bowls immediately while everything is warm and delicious. Dig in and enjoy your flavorful, easy street corn chicken rice bowl!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Proteins for This Bowl?
Absolutely! While chicken is delicious, you can substitute it with grilled shrimp, tofu, or even beef. Just adjust cooking times accordingly: shrimp cooks faster, while tofu should be pan-fried until golden.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also use black beans or chickpeas for added protein and keep the corn for flavor!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on a skillet, adding a splash of water if needed to keep the rice moist.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative with toppings! Some great options include diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, fresh avocado, lime crema, or pickled onions. You can even add a drizzle of your favorite dressing!
