Introduction to Street Corn Chicken Bowl
Welcome to the delightful world of the Street Corn Chicken Bowl! If you’re searching for a vibrant meal that burst with flavor and can be whipped up in no time, you’re in the right place.
As a busy mom myself, I know how challenging it can be to balance work, family, and the ever-looming question of “What’s for dinner?” This recipe is not only a quick solution for hectic days but also an impressive dish that will leave your loved ones asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!
Why You’ll Love This Street Corn Chicken Bowl
This Street Corn Chicken Bowl is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s quick and easy to prepare, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish. The grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the charred corn and zesty lime crema, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Plus, it’s hearty enough to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. What’s not to love when a dish is both a family favorite and a stress reliever?
Ingredients for Street Corn Chicken Bowl
Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating a mouthwatering Street Corn Chicken Bowl. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender.
- Corn kernels: Fresh corn is ideal for that sweet crunch, but frozen corn works just as well in a pinch.
- Olive oil: A drizzle enhances flavor while keeping the chicken moist during grilling.
- Chili powder: Adds a warm kick to the dish; adjust for spice preference.
- Smoked paprika: Infuses a delightful smoky flavor reminiscent of summer barbecues.
- Garlic powder: A simple way to add rich flavor without the hassle of chopping.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors perfectly.
- Cotija cheese: This crumbly Mexican cheese adds a creamy, salty note that’s hard to resist.
- Mayonnaise: Creates the base for the creamy lime sauce, offering richness without overpowering.
- Sour cream: Balances the tanginess of the lime for a delightful creamy dressing.
- Lime: Freshly squeezed juice gives a zesty punch that brightens the entire dish.
- Fresh cilantro: A fragrant herb that adds freshness and color to your bowl.
- Cooked rice: Acts as the hearty foundation for your bowl; choose white or brown depending on your preference.
For added flair, feel free to toss in toppings like avocado, diced tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of hot sauce. This versatility is what makes the Street Corn Chicken Bowl not just delicious but also adaptable to your taste. You can find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing when you’re prepared to cook up this delightful dish.
How to Make Street Corn Chicken Bowl
Ready to create your own delicious Street Corn Chicken Bowl? Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have an exciting meal that’s bursting with flavor. Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
First things first, let’s get that chicken ready! Take two boneless, skinless chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels.
This little trick makes sure they grill nicely.
Now, rub the chicken with olive oil, coating it evenly. Then sprinkle on chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Don’t be shy—seasoning is key to making your dish vibrant and one that everyone will love!
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
With your grill or grill pan preheated to medium-high heat, it’s time to sizzle! Place your seasoned chicken breasts on the grill.
Cook for 6 to 7 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Feel free to use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Once grilled, let them rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.
This resting time helps lock in the juicy goodness!
Step 3: Char the Corn
While your chicken rests, let’s move on to the corn. If you’re grilling, toss the corn kernels onto the grill until they are lightly charred—about 5 minutes should do the trick.
The char adds a smoky flavor that makes this dish special.
If you prefer to sauté, just use a skillet over medium heat with a dash of oil.
Keep stirring until the kernels are beautifully caramelized!
Step 4: Make the Lime Crema
Now for the star of the show, the creamy lime sauce! In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, and freshly squeezed lime juice.
Stir until well combined.
Taste and add more lime if you’re craving a zesty kick! This delightful drizzle will bring everything together in perfect harmony.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowl
Time to build your masterpiece! Start by dividing cooked rice into serving bowls.
Top each bowl with sliced grilled chicken, followed by the charred corn.
Sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese for that creamy texture.
Finish by drizzling your lime crema over the top and garnishing with fresh cilantro.
Voila! You’ve created a vibrant, mouthwatering Street Corn Chicken Bowl that’s ready to impress!
Tips for Success
- Ensure your grill is properly preheated for that perfect sear on the chicken.
- Use fresh corn when possible for maximum sweetness and crunch.
- Don’t skip the resting time for the chicken; it helps maintain juiciness.
- Taste the lime crema and adjust flavors to suit your palate.
- Consider prepping ingredients ahead of time for a speedy dinner.
Equipment Needed
- Grill or grill pan: A cast-iron skillet works well if you don’t have a grill.
- Meat thermometer: Optional, but very handy for ensuring chicken doneness.
- Mixing bowl: Any bowl will do for making that delicious lime crema.
- Spatula or tongs: Perfect for flipping the chicken and corn.
- Serving bowls: Use your favorite dishware to showcase your beautiful creation.
Variations on Street Corn Chicken Bowl
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to your lime crema for an extra kick.
- Protein Swap: Try using shrimp or tofu for a different protein option that still packs a punch.
- Vegetarian Delight: Skip the chicken and load up on grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
- Grain Alternatives: Swap rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or chives in place of cilantro for a unique flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh Salsa: A zesty tomato salsa on the side adds vibrancy and a burst of flavor.
- Chips and Guacamole: Serve with tortilla chips and creamy guacamole for a delightful crunch.
- Refreshing Drink: Pair with a cold margarita or sparkling agua fresca for a refreshing touch.
- Colorful Garnish: A lime wedge and extra cilantro enhance presentation and flavor.
FAQs about Street Corn Chicken Bowl
Got questions? Don’t worry! Here are some frequently asked questions about the Street Corn Chicken Bowl that might help you. Let’s dive right in!
Can I use frozen corn for the Street Corn Chicken Bowl? Absolutely! Frozen corn works perfectly in this recipe. Just remember to sauté or grill it until heated through and slightly charred for optimal flavor.
What can I substitute for cotija cheese? If you can’t find cotija cheese, crumbled feta or queso fresco can be great alternatives. They’ll give you a similar creamy, salty kick that complements the dish well.
How can I make this dish spicy? For some heat, you can add diced jalapeños to the bowl or mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper with the seasoning. Adjust the chili powder to your spice level preference, too!
Is the Street Corn Chicken Bowl gluten-free? Yes! This bowl is entirely gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free grains like brown rice or quinoa. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a gluten-free meal!
How do I store leftovers? Any leftover Street Corn Chicken Bowl can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to keep the lime crema separate until you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Final Thoughts
Creating a Street Corn Chicken Bowl brings such joy to my kitchen and, I hope, to yours as well! The vibrant colors and rich flavors are like a fiesta on a plate, offering comfort and delight. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of love, you can whip up a meal that’s sure to impress. It’s moments like these—savoring the delicious bites with family—that remind us why we love cooking. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the culinary adventure, and enjoy every flavorful mouthful of this vibrant dish!
Print
Street Corn Chicken Bowl
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and vibrant Street Corn Chicken Bowl featuring grilled chicken, charred corn, creamy lime sauce, and fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked. Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- While chicken cooks, grill or sauté corn kernels until lightly charred, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, and lime juice to make the lime crema.
- To assemble, divide cooked rice among bowls. Top with sliced chicken, charred corn, cotija cheese, and drizzle with lime crema. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
Notes
- Fresh corn is recommended for the best flavor, but frozen corn works well too.
- Feel free to add additional toppings like avocado or diced tomatoes.
- Adjust the spiciness by using more or less chili powder.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
