Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I entered my kitchen the other evening, the enticing scent of grilled chicken wafted through the air, igniting my evening meal inspiration. This Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl breathes life into your weeknight dinners, bringing vibrant flavors reminiscent of bustling Mexican street markets. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packs a punch of nutrition, making it a perfect low-calorie option for anyone looking to shake off the fast-food fatigue. Imagine tender, smoky chicken combined with creamy, tangy street corn atop a fluffy bed of rice—each bite a delightful harmony of textures and flavors. Ready to step into a flavor-packed adventure that whispers of warm summer evenings? Let’s dive into this culinary creation together! Why is this bowl so irresistible? Vibrant, Bold Flavors: The Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl bursts with a lively blend of smoky grilled chicken and zesty street corn. Quick and Easy: You can whip up this delicious meal in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Low-Calorie Delight: This recipe is not only satisfying but also nutritious, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish is sure to impress with its striking colors and appetizing presentation. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in shrimp or tofu, or add jalapeños for an extra kick, ensuring everyone can enjoy their perfect bowl! Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice Ingredients For the Chicken • Grilled Chicken – A great source of protein that brings a smoky flavor; use leftover grilled chicken for a quicker prep. For the Corn • Corn – Fresh or canned corn adds a sweet crunch; char it for a smoky taste reminiscent of street vendors. For the Rice • Rice – Acts as a hearty base; choose white, brown, or any favorite rice to absorb the flavors of the bowl. For the Sauce • Creamy Chili-Lime Sauce – This sauce is essential for tanginess; mix mayonnaise, lime juice, and chili powder for a classic kick, or swap mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter version. For the Garnish • Cilantro (optional) – Adds a splash of freshness and color; don’t skip it if you love that herbal note to your Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Step 1: Prepare the Rice Begin by rinsing 1 cup of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice according to package instructions, using a rice cooker or stovetop with 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, cover, and reduce heat to low, simmering for about 15-18 minutes until fluffy. Once done, remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes to become perfectly tender. Step 2: Grill the Chicken While the rice cooks, season 2 chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices (like paprika and cumin) for an extra kick. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for approximately 6-7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the outside has nice grill marks. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Step 3: Char the Corn In a medium skillet, add 1 cup of fresh or canned corn, draining excess liquid if using canned corn. Heat over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the corn is slightly charred and golden, about 5 minutes. This enhances the flavor, mimicking the smoky taste of traditional Mexican street corn. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly. Step 4: Make the Sauce In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup mayonnaise, the juice of 1 lime, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. Whisk together until smooth and creamy to create the zesty sauce that will elevate your Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more lime juice or chili powder to suit your preference. Step 5: Combine Ingredients Once the rice is fluffy and the chicken is sliced, it’s time to assemble. In bowls, layer a generous scoop of rice as the base, followed by the sliced grilled chicken, and then top with the charred corn. Drizzle the creamy chili-lime sauce over the top, creating a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Step 6: Garnish & Serve For the finishing touch, sprinkle chopped cilantro over each bowl for a fresh, herbal note. Serve your Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl warm, inviting everyone to enjoy this vibrant and satisfying meal that feels like a taste of summer. What to Serve with Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl The perfect accompaniment can elevate your delightful meal into a full dining experience. Creamy Avocado Salad: This cool, creamy salad adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken and can be prepped in minutes. Toss together ripe avocados, diced tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime for a zesty bite. Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside some crunchy tortilla chips for added texture. Their salty crispness is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce from the bowl. Zesty Lime Cilantro Rice: Enhance the rice base with additional tang by mixing in lime juice and fresh cilantro. It complements the flavors in the dish beautifully while adding a burst of color. Charred Vegetable Medley: Roasted or grilled mixed veggies like bell peppers and zucchini bring a smokiness that echoes the dish, creating layers of flavor in every bite. Pineapple Pink Lemonade: This refreshing drink will wonderfully balance the spices. Its sweet-tart profile is like a summer vacation in a glass, perfect for washing down each flavorful mouthful. Churros with Chocolate Sauce: Finish off your meal on a sweet note! These crispy, cinnamon-sugar-dusted treats pair seamlessly with a rich, warm chocolate sauce that’s perfect for dipping. Each bite delivers a delightful crunch followed by a soft, sweet filling, rounding out your flavorful fiesta. How to Store and Freeze Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Be sure to separate the chicken, corn, and rice to prevent sogginess. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice in individual portions. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer; just ensure you use freezer-safe containers. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, heat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Make-Ahead: Prepare the components in advance and store them separately, making it quick and easy to assemble your bowl when hunger strikes! Expert Tips for Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to maintain safety and juiciness. Undercooked chicken can lead to health issues. Char Corn for Flavor: When charring, don’t rush the corn! Allow it to develop a nice golden color for that signature smoky taste that elevates your Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice. Layer Wisely: Start with rice at the bottom of the bowl, creating a sturdy base that absorbs the sauce. This prevents a soggy bottom and enhances overall flavor. Adjust the Heat: If you’re looking for a spicier kick, add fresh jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning. Tailor it to your taste, making every bowl your own. Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh lime juice for the creamy chili-lime sauce for the best flavor. Bottled lime juice can taste different and might not add the same zest. Make-Ahead Tips: Cook components in advance and store separately to save time. Combine them when ready to eat, ensuring your meal is fresh and flavorful! Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice Variations Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own; there are endless possibilities to explore! Protein Swap: Replace grilled chicken with shrimp or tofu for a delicious twist. Both options bring unique flavors and textures that make every bite exciting. Extra Heat: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to kick up the spice level. If you love heat, don’t be shy; this bowl eagerly welcomes those who like it hot! Different Greens: Swap cilantro for green onions or parsley to suit your taste. Each herb brings a distinct flair, transforming your creation without losing charm. Vegetable Boost: Toss in additional veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition. This colorful variety enhances both the look and healthiness of your meal. Creamy Alternative: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version of the creamy chili-lime sauce. This swap adds protein while keeping that luscious creaminess intact. Flavor Infusion: Try marinating the chicken in lime juice and spices beforehand for deeper flavor. A little extra planning can elevate your dish to a whole new level! Grain Variation: Experiment with different types of rice, like quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier option. This way, you can tailor the dish to your dietary preferences. For more inspiration, check out my take on making homemade Dairy-Free Sauces or explore some ideas for easy side dishes that pair beautifully with the bowl like a refreshing Pineapple Pink Lemonade. Make Ahead Options These Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can grill the chicken and char the corn up to 3 days in advance, ensuring flavors are locked in while saving you time on busy weeknights. Simply refrigerate the cooked chicken and corn in airtight containers. The creamy chili-lime sauce can also be prepared and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours; this helps the flavors meld beautifully. When ready to serve, just reheat the chicken and corn, assemble your bowls with fresh rice, drizzle the sauce, and garnish with cilantro. Enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort and maximum flavor! Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe FAQs What should I look for when selecting corn? When choosing corn, fresh is best! Look for ears that are plump and green with tightly wrapped husks. If you’re using canned corn instead, opt for low-sodium varieties and be sure to rinse it under cold water to reduce excess sodium. How should I store leftovers of the Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl? Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep your components fresh, separate the chicken, corn, and rice to avoid sogginess. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop just until warmed through for best results. Can I freeze the Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl? Yes, you can certainly freeze it! Portion the rice, chicken, and corn into freezer-safe containers, ensuring they don’t touch. This dish can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. What if my grilled chicken is dry? Oh no! If you find that your chicken has turned out dry, don’t despair. Make sure to marinate or season it well before cooking and keep it covered while resting after grilling to retain moisture. You can also slice the chicken and toss it with a sprinkle of extra lime juice or broth for added juiciness. Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies? Definitely! While the Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is great for humans, be cautious with pets. Avoid sharing any parts with garlic or onions, as these can be harmful to dogs. If you’re catering to allergies, please substitute any ingredients accordingly, such as using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for dairy-free alternatives. Can I prepare elements in advance for busy nights? Certainly! To make your meal prep easier, you can cook the rice, grill the chicken, and char the corn in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, and simply assemble the bowl when you’re ready to eat. This method can save time and keep your meal fresh and flavorful on those busy weeknights! Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice That'll Ignite Your Taste Buds This Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice recipe packs a punch of vibrant flavors and nutrition, making it a perfect quick dinner option. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: MexicanCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 pieces Chicken Breasts seasonedFor the Corn1 cup Corn fresh or cannedFor the Rice1 cup Rice white, brown, or preferredFor the Sauce1/4 cup Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for lighter version1 unit Lime juiced1 teaspoon Chili PowderFor the Garnish1/4 cup Cilantro optional Equipment Grillskilletrice cooker Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsRinse the rice under cold water until clear. Cook according to package instructions with 2 cups of water. Bring to boil, cover, simmer for 15-18 minutes, then let sit covered for 5 minutes.Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and spices. Grill over medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through and marked. Let rest, then slice.In a skillet, char corn over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until golden. Remove from heat.Whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, and chili powder in a small bowl until smooth.Assemble bowls with rice as the base, topped with chicken slices, charred corn, and drizzled sauce.Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving warm. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, separating components to maintain texture. Can freeze for up to 2 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
