Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

• servings: 4
• active time: 15
• total time: 40

Ingredients

2 large chicken breasts, diced

1 tsp chili powder

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp cumin

1 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup long-grain rice (cooked as per package instructions)

Juice of 1 lime

2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

For the Street Corn:

2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

1/4 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese

1/2 tsp chili powder

Juice of 1 lime

Salt to taste

1 Diced avocado

1 Chopped tomatoes

1 Sliced jalapeños

Extra cotija cheese

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Toss the diced chicken with chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.

2. Cook the Rice

Prepare the rice according to package instructions.

Once cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro.

3. Make the Street Corn

In a bowl, combine the corn kernels, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.

4. Assemble the Bowls

Divide the rice among serving bowls.

Top with the cooked chicken and a generous scoop of the street corn mixture.

Add any optional toppings, such as diced avocado or sliced jalapeños, for extra flavor and color.

Notes

Grill the Corn: For added flavor, grill the corn before mixing it with the mayonnaise and cotija cheese.

Swap Proteins: Use shrimp, steak, or tofu in place of chicken for a versatile twist.

Meal Prep: Store the rice, chicken, and street corn separately in the fridge for up to 3 days, then assemble fresh bowls when ready to eat.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Variation:

For those who enjoy a little heat, amp up the spice with extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot paprika. A drizzle of your favorite hot sauce, like Sriracha or Tabasco, will add both heat and a tangy kick to the dish. Adjust the level of heat to your preference, starting small and adding more as desired. This variation works especially well with bold flavors and can make the dish more vibrant and exciting, perfect for spice lovers!

Vegetarian Option:

If you’re looking for a meat-free alternative or just want to enjoy a vegetable-packed dish, skip the chicken and either double the amount of grilled vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions) or include a hearty legume like black beans. The black beans will provide a nice protein boost, while the vegetables add texture, color, and fresh flavor. For added depth, you can include a variety of roasted or sautéed veggies like mushrooms, corn, and sweet potatoes, making for a hearty and satisfying vegetarian meal.

Cheesy Twist:

For a richer, creamier texture, stir in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese into the hot rice just before serving. The cheese will melt, enveloping the rice in a smooth, gooey texture that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. You can also sprinkle additional cheese on top after serving for an extra cheesy touch. If you prefer a sharper flavor, a bit of Parmesan or pepper jack cheese could also bring a nice tang and a touch of heat, depending on your preference.

Freezing and Storage

Storage:

To keep your meal fresh and preserve the flavors, store the individual components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This method prevents the chicken, rice, and other ingredients from getting soggy or losing their texture. Each component will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For added convenience, you can prep everything ahead of time and store each element separately—this ensures that when you’re ready to enjoy your meal, everything remains fresh and flavorful.

Reheating:

When it’s time to enjoy your meal, reheat the chicken and rice separately in the microwave until they are thoroughly heated. This ensures that the rice retains its texture and the chicken remains tender and juicy. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating, and you can also add a splash of broth or water to the rice to prevent it from drying out. Serve the reheated chicken and rice with freshly prepared street corn on the side for an extra layer of flavor. The crisp and smoky taste of the street corn will complement the rich, savory components of the chicken and rice perfectly, making for a satisfying and delicious meal.

Nutrition

• Calories: 420
• Total Fat: 14g
• Total Carbohydrate: 38g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 32g