Introduction
Craving something vibrant and full of flavor? This Zesty Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl with Cilantro-Lime Rice combines smoky, spiced grilled chicken, tangy cilantro-lime rice, and creamy, street corn-style toppings. Packed with bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a variety of textures, this bowl is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility, allowing you to add your favorite toppings and adjust the spice level to your liking.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for You
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with minimal effort but maximum flavor. The marinated chicken, infused with smoky spices and lime, pairs beautifully with the creamy street corn and refreshing cilantro-lime rice. This bowl is also customizable—add your favorite toppings, from avocado to jalapeños, to make it your own. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it ideal for meal prep or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs (about 4) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Street Corn:
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 cup cotija cheese or feta, crumbled
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Rice:
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For Toppings (optional):
- Sliced avocado or guacamole
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapeños
- Extra crumbled cotija cheese
- Additional lime wedges
Directions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, then pour the marinade over the chicken. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to infuse.
2. Cook the Chicken
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
3. Prepare the Street Corn
If using fresh corn, grill the cobs until lightly charred, then cut the kernels off. If using frozen or canned corn, heat the corn in a skillet over medium heat. In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika (optional), and crumbled cotija cheese. Stir the warm corn kernels into the mixture until fully coated. Add fresh cilantro and stir to combine.
4. Prepare the Cilantro-Lime Rice
In a large bowl, toss the cooked white or brown rice with lime juice and chopped cilantro until well combined.
5. Assemble the Bowls
Divide the cilantro-lime rice evenly among serving bowls. Top each bowl with the sliced chicken and a generous portion of the street corn mixture. Add any optional toppings such as sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, extra cotija cheese, and lime wedges for an added burst of flavor.
6. Serve
Serve the bowls warm with extra lime wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of citrus. Enjoy this zesty and flavorful dish!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Grill or grill pan for cooking the chicken
- Large bowl for mixing the rice
- Medium bowl for the street corn mixture
- Knife and cutting board for slicing the chicken and toppings
Tips and Shortcuts
- Marinating Time: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if you’re short on time, a quick 15-minute marination will still provide a delicious result.
- Frozen Corn: If using frozen corn, no need to thaw it first. Simply toss it into the skillet and cook until warmed through.
- Meal Prep: This bowl is great for meal prep. Cook the chicken, rice, and corn ahead of time and store them separately. Assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
- Vegan Option: Replace the chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh, and use a vegan mayo alternative for the street corn mixture.
- Grain Swap: Swap out the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
- Cheese Alternatives: If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta is a great substitute for a similar flavor and texture.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover components (chicken, rice, street corn) in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken and rice in the microwave or a skillet before assembling the bowls. The street corn mixture can be served cold or at room temperature.
Food and Drink Pairings
These Zesty Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls pair wonderfully with a refreshing margarita or agua fresca. If you prefer beer, a light lager or Mexican-style beer will complement the smoky and tangy flavors of the dish. For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling water infused with lime and mint for a refreshing kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use canned corn for the street corn mixture?
A: Yes! If you’re short on time or fresh corn isn’t in season, canned corn works perfectly. Just be sure to drain it well before adding it to the street corn mixture.
Q: How can I make the dish spicier?
A: To amp up the heat, add extra chili powder to the chicken marinade or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the street corn mixture. You can also top the bowls with sliced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce.
Q: Can I grill the chicken indoors?
A: Absolutely! A grill pan or stovetop skillet works just as well as an outdoor grill. Just be sure to heat the pan over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side.
Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe.
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Zesty Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl with Cilantro-Lime Rice
Description
Enjoy a flavorful Zesty Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl with cilantro-lime rice, grilled chicken, and fresh toppings for a vibrant meal. Perfect for any time!