This Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a tasty combo of juicy chicken, sweet corn, and fluffy rice. It’s colorful and brings all the summer vibes to your table!
If you’re like me, you’ll love how quick and simple it is to whip up. Just toss everything together, and you’re ready for a delicious meal. Perfect for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: The star of the dish! I prefer boneless chicken breasts because they cook quickly. You could substitute with diced tofu for a vegetarian version or shredded rotisserie chicken for even more convenience!
Corn: You can use fresh corn for the sweetest flavor, but frozen or canned corn is a great time-saver. Just be sure to drain canned corn well. I often mix sweet corn with some spicy corn for a kick!
Rice: I love using jasmine rice for its aroma, but basmati is also delicious. If you need a lower-carb option, quinoa works well too. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright touch. If you’re not a fan, parsley will work too, or you can skip it altogether! I sometimes replace cilantro with a dash of green onion for a different flavor.
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the chicken right is crucial for this recipe. Start by cutting the chicken into uniform pieces so they cook evenly. You want them to be small but not too tiny, about 1-inch cubes work well.
- Coat the chicken with the spice mixture thoroughly for balanced flavor.
- Heat the skillet over medium-high. This helps to sear the chicken quickly, keeping it juicy inside.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes or until no longer pink in the center. A meat thermometer reading of 165°F ensures it’s fully cooked.
Let the chicken rest for a minute before adding it to the bowls. This keeps it juicy and flavorful!
Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (jasmine or basmati work well)
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Mix-ins:
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
For Flavor:
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Hot sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious street corn chicken rice bowl comes together quickly! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes for cooking, totaling around 25 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine the chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the diced chicken pieces in this spice mixture until they’re evenly coated. This will add great flavor!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a lovely golden color. Once it’s cooked, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the corn, diced red bell pepper, and red onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the veggies are tender and just a bit charred—this adds a nice depth of flavor!
4. Prepare the Rice:
If your cooked rice needs warming, this is the time to do it. You can microwave it or heat it gently in the skillet for a minute or two.
5. Assemble Your Bowls:
Start by placing a generous scoop of rice in each bowl. Top it with the sautéed corn mixture, the seasoned chicken, and if you like, the black beans and avocado slices. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for freshness!
6. Finish and Serve:
Drizzle freshly squeezed lime juice over everything for a zesty finish. Feel free to add any optional toppings, like shredded cheese, sour cream, or a dash of hot sauce. Serve immediately, and enjoy your vibrant and flavorful street corn chicken rice bowl!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice is a great substitute and offers more fiber. Just keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time—typically around 40-45 minutes to get tender, so plan accordingly!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
The possibilities are endless! You can add diced tomatoes, jalapeños for heat, or a dollop of guacamole. You could also sprinkle on some nuts or seeds for added crunch. Customize it to your liking!
