Flavor-packed Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Have you ever craved a meal that’s a little bit fresh, a little bit smoky, and a whole lotta flavor? I totally get that feeling, especially after a busy day when you need something that’s quick yet satisfying. That’s exactly what inspired this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl—a meal that combines tender grilled chicken, sweet street corn, and creamy Cotija cheese for a mouthwatering, customizable dinner.

The best part? This recipe is versatile! You can add your favorite toppings like creamy avocado, black beans, or even a drizzle of hot sauce to give it a personal touch. So, let’s get started, and trust me—you’re going to love how simple and delicious this meal is.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This meal comes together in just 50 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a meal prep option.
• Packed with Flavor: The grilled chicken and street corn are bursting with smoky, tangy goodness, topped off with Cotija cheese and lime for a fresh kick.
• Healthy & Customizable: This is a balanced meal with lean protein, vegetables, and grains. Plus, you can mix and match toppings to fit your cravings.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl:

For the Chicken:
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs, fresh lime juice, avocado oil, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder (or freshly minced garlic), salt, black pepper.

For the Street Corn Topping:
Sweet corn kernels (grilled or frozen), red onion (thinly sliced), sour cream (reserve some for topping), mayonnaise, crumbled Cotija cheese (extra for garnish), chili powder, salt, pepper, lime wedges.

For the Rice and Assembly:
Cooked rice, fresh cilantro (for garnish).

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season & Marinate the Chicken:
   In a bowl, combine lime juice, avocado oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Coat the chicken thighs with this marinade and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful your chicken will be!
2. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs for about 8-10 minutes per side, or until they’re fully cooked. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it thinly.
3. Prepare the Street Corn Topping:
   In a bowl, combine grilled corn (or sautéed frozen corn), red onion, sour cream, mayonnaise, Cotija cheese, and chili powder. Add salt and pepper to taste. For extra zing, squeeze a little lime juice into the mix!
4. Prepare the Rice:
   Reheat the rice by adding a splash of water and warming it in the microwave or on the stove. This keeps the rice fluffy and prevents it from drying out.
5. Assemble the Bowls:
   Start with a layer of rice, followed by the sliced chicken, street corn topping, extra Cotija cheese, and cilantro. Garnish with lime wedges, and if you’re feeling extra indulgent, drizzle some sour cream on top. Optional: Finish with a sprinkle of Tajín for that extra burst of flavor.

Tips & Variations

• Char the Corn: For a smokier flavor, grill the corn or cook it in a hot skillet until slightly charred. This adds a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the creamy toppings.
• Use Fresh Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brings brightness to both the marinade and the street corn topping. It helps balance the richness of the sour cream and mayo.
• Make It Spicy: If you like heat, feel free to toss in chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into the street corn topping for a fiery kick.
• Extra Toppings: This recipe is so versatile! Try adding diced avocado, pico de gallo, shredded lettuce, or even radish slices for some extra crunch.

Serve It With These Amazing Recipes

Looking for more healthy dinner ideas for meal prep or exciting chicken meals to try? Here are some delicious options to mix up your weeknight dinners:

• Quick Chicken Stir-Fry: Easy and Delicious – This stir-fry recipe is perfect for busy nights when you need something fast but flavorful.
• Baked Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Asparagus – A wholesome meal with the perfect balance of protein and veggies.
• Grilled Salmon: The Ultimate Guide – Looking for a seafood alternative? This grilled salmon is both healthy and delicious.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef and Rice – If you love rice-based dishes, these stuffed peppers are a hearty option.
• Turkey Chili: Healthy, Hearty, and Delicious – A healthier alternative to chili with lean turkey that’s packed with flavor.
• Smoothie Bowl Breakfast Ideas to Boost Your Morning Energy – For a lighter meal option, try these smoothie bowls to start your day energized.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is everything you need in one meal—delicious, healthy, and super customizable. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s sure to satisfy. I hope this recipe inspires you to get in the kitchen and create something fresh and exciting.

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