Street Corn Chicken Bowl: A Delicious Recipe for Summer Nights

Street Corn Chicken Bowl is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings the vibrant essence of street food right to your dining table. This dish is inspired by the popular Mexican street corn, known as elote, which is celebrated for its smoky, creamy, and tangy profile. As I prepared this recipe, I couldn’t help but think about the bustling streets of Mexico, where vendors serve up this beloved treat to eager crowds. The combination of juicy chicken, charred corn, and zesty toppings creates a mouthwatering experience that is both satisfying and comforting.

People love the Street Corn Chicken Bowl not just for its incredible taste, but also for its texture and convenience. The tender chicken pairs perfectly with the crunchy corn, while the creamy sauce adds a luscious finish. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a quick and easy meal option for busy weeknights. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a delicious dinner idea, the Street Corn Chicken Bowl is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated. 2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden-brown color. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). 3. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and flavorful. 4. After resting, slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set aside while you prepare the other components of the bowl.

Preparing the Corn

5. If you’re using fresh corn, you’ll want to cut the kernels off the cob. If using frozen corn, simply thaw it. For canned corn, drain and rinse it under cold water. 6. In the same skillet you used for the chicken, add the corn. If you want to add a bit of extra flavor, you can sprinkle a little salt and smoked paprika over the corn. Sauté the corn over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through and slightly charred. This step enhances the sweetness of the corn and adds a nice texture.

Making the Sauce

7. In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lime juice, and half of the chopped cilantro. Mix well until smooth. This creamy sauce will add a delicious tangy flavor to your bowl. 8. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add a pinch of salt or more lime juice according to your preference.

Assembling the Bowl

9. Now it’s time to assemble your Street Corn Chicken Bowl! Start by placing a generous scoop of cooked rice at the bottom of each bowl. 10. Next, layer the sliced chicken on top of the rice. Make sure to distribute the chicken evenly among the bowls. 11. Add a generous portion of the sautéed corn over the chicken. The sweet and smoky flavor of the corn will complement the seasoned chicken beautifully. 12. Drizzle the creamy lime sauce over the corn and chicken. Don’t be shy with the sauce; it’s what brings all the flavors together! 13. Top each bowl with crumbled feta cheese, diced red onion, and the remaining chopped cilantro. The feta adds a salty creaminess, while the red onion provides a nice crunch and a bit of sharpness. 14. Finally, add a few slices of avocado on top for a creamy texture and healthy fats. You can also squeeze a little extra lime juice over the top for added brightness.

Serving Suggestions

15. Serve the Street Corn Chicken Bowls immediately while everything is warm. You can also offer lime wedges on the side for those who want an extra burst of citrus. 16. If you have any leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken and corn can be reheated, while the rice can be served cold or warm. 17. Feel free to customize your bowls! You can add black beans for extra protein, diced tomatoes for freshness, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick. The beauty of this dish is its versatility.

Tips for Success

18. Make sure to use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of the chicken. This ensures that it’s cooked perfectly without being dry. 19. If you’re short on time, you can use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.

Conclusion:

In summary, this Street Corn Chicken Bowl is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners or impress guests at a gathering. The combination of juicy, seasoned chicken, sweet corn, creamy dressing, and zesty toppings creates a flavor explosion that is both satisfying and refreshing. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily swap out the chicken for grilled shrimp or even make it vegetarian by using black beans or roasted veggies. For a fun twist, consider adding some avocado slices or a sprinkle of feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor. You can also serve it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a heartier meal. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this recipe so special! I encourage you to give this Street Corn Chicken Bowl a try and make it your own. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you come up with! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Happy cooking! Print