This Flavor-packed Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a fun dish loaded with tender chicken, zesty street corn, and fluffy rice. It’s like a fiesta in a bowl, bursting with flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice is perfect for this dish since it adds a lovely aroma. If jasmine rice isn’t available, you can use basmati rice or even brown rice for a nuttier flavor – just adjust the water and cooking time accordingly.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy and quick to cook. You might want to substitute with chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness. Also, leftover cooked chicken works fine if you’re in a hurry.
Spices (Chili Powder, Paprika, Garlic Powder, Cumin): These spices make the chicken flavorful. If you want more heat, try adding cayenne pepper or swapping chili powder for taco seasoning. You can also mix and match according to your spice preferences.
Corn: Fresh corn really brightens this dish, but canned or frozen corn works too. If using frozen corn, just make sure to thaw it first. For a different texture and flavor, try grilled corn instead!
Sour Cream: A rich and creamy topping. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It provides that tangy flavor you want without the extra calories.
How Do You Cook the Chicken for Maximum Flavor and Tenderness?
Cooking chicken breast can be tricky, as they can dry out quickly. Here’s how to get them flavorful and juicy:
- Start by marinating the chicken with the spice mix. Allow it to sit for at least 15 minutes (or longer, if possible) to let those flavors soak in.
- Cook the chicken in a preheated grill pan or skillet; this helps get a good sear. Make sure your pan is hot before adding the chicken.
- Don’t flip the chicken too soon! Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until you see clear juices coming out. Let it rest for a few minutes post-cooking – this helps keep it juicy.
By following these tips, you’ll serve up chicken that’s bursting with flavor and perfectly tender. Enjoy your cooking!
Flavor-Packed Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rice:
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional toppings: lime wedges, additional cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious rice bowl will take about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll spend approximately 15 minutes cooking the rice, and about 15 minutes preparing the chicken and toppings. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that brings bold flavors to your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Jasmine Rice:
Start by getting your jasmine rice ready! In a medium pot, combine the jasmine rice and either water or chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. Once it’s done, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Season the Chicken:
While the rice is cooking, it’s time to prep the chicken! In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to create a tasty spice mix. Rub this seasoning all over the chicken breasts, making sure they are well-coated for maximum flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pan. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re fully cooked and have a nice golden char. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C). Once they’re cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing them into strips.
4. Sauté the Corn:
Using another small skillet, add the corn kernels and warm them over medium heat. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, just until they are heated through and a bit caramelized. This will bring out great sweetness and flavor in the corn!
5. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream and lime juice with a pinch of salt. This creamy dressing is going to add a delicious tang to your rice bowl.
6. Assemble the Bowls:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Grab some bowls and start by adding a generous scoop of the jasmine rice at the bottom of each bowl. Top the rice with the sliced chicken, sautéed corn, and avocado slices. Drizzle the sour cream dressing generously over everything and sprinkle with fresh cilantro for a pop of flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Last but not least, serve your flavorful bowls with lime wedges and extra cilantro on the side. This adds a refreshing touch and lets everyone customize their bowls to their taste. Enjoy your delicious flavor-packed street corn chicken rice bowl!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of Jasmine Rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for jasmine rice! Just keep in mind that brown rice typically takes longer to cook—about 40-45 minutes. Ensure you use about 2.5 cups of water or broth for every cup of brown rice. Allow it to simmer until tender and all the liquid is absorbed.
What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, Greek yogurt is a great substitute that will give a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor. For a dairy-free option, consider using dairy-free yogurt or avocado for creaminess.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To extend freshness, store the components (rice, chicken, corn, and dressing) separately if possible. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove before serving.
Can I Use Frozen Corn for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen corn, just add it directly to the skillet and sauté for a few extra minutes until fully heated through. You don’t need to thaw it beforehand, which makes it an easy and convenient option!