This Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a tasty mix of chicken, sweet corn, and fluffy rice, all drizzled with a creamy sauce. It’s colorful and full of flavor!
Honestly, this bowl brings all the vibes of street food right to your kitchen. Perfect for busy nights when you want something quick but delicious. Who can resist it? 😋
I love how simple it is to whip up! Just toss everything together, and it’s ready in no time. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftovers. Enjoy it as a fun lunch or dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: I recommend using jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant, fluffy base. If you’re looking for a different option, quinoa or cauliflower rice can be great substitutes for a gluten-free or lower-carb meal.
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a favorite of mine for its convenience and flavor. You can also use leftover grilled chicken or even shredded turkey if you have it.
Street Corn: You can make street corn by grilling fresh corn and mixing it with mayo, cotija cheese, and spices. If cotija is hard to find, feta cheese will work as a reasonable substitute!
Beans: Black beans add a nice protein boost. If you’re not a fan, feel free to leave them out or swap them for pinto beans or chickpeas.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack are perfect for this dish. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Perfectly Sauté Street Corn?
Sautéing street corn is key to achieving that delicious, slightly charred flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium heat—the right temperature will give you color without burning.
- Don’t rush it! Let the corn cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s slightly golden.
- Mix in the remaining ingredients quickly after removing from heat to keep everything fresh and flavorful.
Taking the time to sauté will make your corn more flavorful, so don’t skip this step!
Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (jasmine or basmati recommended)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (grilled or rotisserie chicken works well)
Street Corn:
- 1 cup street corn (corn kernels sautéed or grilled with butter, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime juice, and chili powder)
Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained (optional)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For Garnish:
- 1 lime, cut into wedges for garnish
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes for cooking, making it a quick meal to whip up in just 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Street Corn:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the corn kernels. Sauté the corn for about 3-5 minutes until it’s slightly charred, which will bring out its flavor.
2. Mix the Street Corn:
After the corn is cooked, remove it from the heat. In the same skillet, stir in mayonnaise, cotija cheese (if you have it), lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together, then set it aside to cool slightly.
3. Warm the Chicken:
If your chicken is cold, warm it in a skillet or microwave until it’s hot. This ensures it blends well with the other warm ingredients.
4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until you have a smooth sauce.
5. Assemble the Rice Bowls:
Divide the cooked rice evenly into serving bowls. This is the base of your delicious creation!
6. Add the Toppings:
Top the rice in each bowl with the warmed chicken, street corn, optional black beans, red onion, and shredded cheese if you like. Get creative and layer it up!
7. Drizzle the Creamy Sauce:
Generously drizzle the creamy sauce you prepared over the top of each bowl. This adds a delightful flavor that brings everything together.
8. Garnish:
Garnish each bowl with fresh cilantro and lime wedges to add a burst of freshness.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl immediately while it’s warm. Dive in and enjoy this flavorful, fun meal!
FAQ about Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Can I Use Frozen Corn for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen corn, just thaw it completely before sautéing. You can do this by placing it in the fridge overnight or quickly thawing it in the microwave. Once thawed, sauté it as instructed to bring out the flavors.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time! Cook the rice, chicken, and street corn, and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just assemble and heat everything together when you’re ready to serve!
How Can I Customize the Sauce?
If you’re looking for a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier option, or mix in some avocado for creaminess!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or lime juice to keep it moist as you heat it.
