Tasty Street Corn Chicken Bowl combines the vibrant flavors of grilled chicken, fresh corn, and creamy toppings for a satisfying meal. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional comfort food, embracing the essence of street corn in a bowl format that everyone will love.
Why Make This Recipe
Making a Tasty Street Corn Chicken Bowl is a wonderful way to enjoy the robust flavors of Mexican street food right at home. The blend of spices with succulent chicken thighs makes for a hearty essential meal, while the fresh toppings like corn, avocado, and lime bring a refreshing touch that enhances every bite. This recipe is easy to create, and it’s perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. It’s nutritious, flavorful, and sure to impress family and friends without requiring hours in the kitchen.
How to Make Tasty Street Corn Chicken Bowl
Creating your own Tasty Street Corn Chicken Bowl is a straightforward process that involves marinating, cooking, and assembling the ingredients. Here’s how you can whip up this delicious dish in no time!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder or 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 cup sweet corn kernels (grilled or sautéed from frozen)
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion
- 1/2 cup sour cream, separated
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (extra for topping)
- 1 tbsp lime juice (to taste)
- 3 cups prepared rice
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Lime wedges (from 1 lime)
- Reserved sour cream and cotija cheese, for garnish
Directions
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In a bowl, mix the lime juice, avocado oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
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Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and coat them well with the mixture. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
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Cook the marinated chicken thighs in a skillet over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until they are fully cooked. Remove from heat and let them rest.
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In another bowl, combine the sweet corn, red onion, 1/2 cup sour cream, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
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Prepare the rice according to package instructions.
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Slice the cooked chicken into strips.
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To assemble the bowls, place a scoop of rice at the bottom, add the sliced chicken on top, and then spoon the corn mixture over everything.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and extra sour cream and cotija cheese if desired.
Pro Tips for Success Tasty Street Corn Chicken Bowl
- Marinate Longer: For even more flavor, consider marinating the chicken thighs for 30 minutes to an hour. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat more deeply.
- Grill the Corn: If possible, grill the corn to give it a smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the bowl.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh ingredients, especially with herbs and aromatics like cilantro, lime, and garlic, to brighten the dish.
- Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of chili powder based on your spice preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less or opt for paprika instead.
- Layer Flavors: When assembling the bowl, layer all the components carefully. Start with rice, followed by the chicken, then the corn mixture, and finish with garnishes.
- Make it Ahead: This dish stores well, making it a great option for meal prep. Keep the components separate until you’re ready to serve for the best texture.
Flavor Variations Tasty Street Corn Chicken Bowl
- Add Avocado: Incorporate slices of fresh avocado or guacamole for added creaminess and healthy fats.
- Switch Up the Protein: Swap chicken thighs for shrimp or tofu to cater to different dietary preferences while keeping the recipe vibrant and delicious.
- Spice it Up: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the corn mixture for those who crave extra heat.
- Change the Cheese: If cotija cheese isn’t available, try feta or shredded cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Vegan Version: Replace chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms and use vegan sour cream and mayo alternatives to create a tasty plant-based bowl.
Serving Suggestions Tasty Street Corn Chicken Bowl
This Tasty Street Corn Chicken Bowl is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and drinks. Here are some suggestions:
- Pair with a Salad: Serve with a fresh side salad featuring mixed greens, avocado, and a light lime vinaigrette to complement the richness of the bowl.
- Add Crispy Tortilla Chips: For a fun crunch, consider serving side tortilla chips or homemade tortilla strips.
- Beverage Pairing: Try pairing it with a refreshing drink like iced tea, lemonade, or even a cold cerveza for an authentic touch.
- Add a Soup: A light corn chowder or Mexican-inspired soup can serve as a perfect starter to this hearty bowl.
- Serve Family Style: For a gathering, prepare the ingredients and let guests assemble their bowls to create a fun and interactive dining experience.
Storage and Freezing Instructions Tasty Street Corn Chicken Bowl
To ensure your Tasty Street Corn Chicken Bowl keeps well:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
- Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Wrap it tightly in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. For cooked components, freeze rice and chicken separately in airtight containers. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Freshness of Toppings: Keep toppings like sour cream, cotija cheese, and cilantro separate until you’re ready to serve to retain their freshness and prevent sogginess.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|———————|———-|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
FAQ About Tasty Street Corn Chicken Bowl
Can I use other types of meat for this bowl?
Yes! You can easily swap out chicken thighs for other proteins such as turkey, beef, or shrimp. Each option will give your bowl a unique twist while keeping the essence of the dish. For a vegetarian option, consider using grilled tofu or tempeh as a protein substitute.
What can I serve this bowl with for a complete meal?
This bowl is hearty enough to stand alone, but you might want to consider a side of light salad or tortilla chips. A refreshing fruit salsa or a side of black beans would also complement the flavors beautifully and round out your meal.
How can I customize the spice level of this recipe?
To adjust the spice level, play around with the quantity of chili powder or replace it with a milder spice, such as smoked paprika. You could also add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the corn mixture if you prefer more heat.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! To make a vegan version, you’ll want to replace the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated tofu. Additionally, use vegan sour cream and mayonnaise alternatives for the creamy topping, and you’ll have a delicious plant-based meal.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and are best eaten within 3 days. To prolong freshness, keep toppings such as cheese and sour cream separate until serving. You can also freeze the marinated chicken before cooking or store cooked components separately.
Final Thoughts
Tasty Street Corn Chicken Bowl is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings a taste of adventure to your dining table. With a fusion of marinated chicken, sweet corn, and zesty toppings, it’s a dish that caters to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. Easy to prepare and customizable, this recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or gatherings with family and friends. Embrace the flavors and create a bowl that suits your style, and enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!
Print
Tasty Street Corn Chicken Bowl
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delightful twist on traditional comfort food, featuring grilled chicken, sweet corn, and creamy toppings in a satisfying bowl format.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder or 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 cup sweet corn kernels (grilled or sautéed from frozen)
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion
- 1/2 cup sour cream, separated
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (extra for topping)
- 1 tbsp lime juice (to taste)
- 3 cups prepared rice
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Lime wedges (from 1 lime)
- Reserved sour cream and cotija cheese, for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix lime juice, avocado oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add chicken thighs to the bowl and coat well. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Cook marinated chicken thighs in a skillet over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let rest.
- In another bowl, combine sweet corn, red onion, 1/2 cup sour cream, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
- Prepare rice according to package instructions.
- Slice cooked chicken into strips.
- To assemble bowls, place a scoop of rice at the bottom, add sliced chicken on top, and spoon the corn mixture over everything.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and extra sour cream and cotija cheese if desired.
Notes
Consider marinating the chicken for longer for deeper flavor. Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican