Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe
Introduction: The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the best of Mexican street corn and tender grilled chicken. Inspired by the classic Mexican street food, Elote, this bowl is a perfect fusion of sweet corn, zesty spices, and creamy dressing. It’s ideal for a hearty lunch or dinner, offering a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, while delivering a satisfying combination of tastes and textures. This recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy the essence of Mexican street food in a nutritious and easy-to-make bowl.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Street Corn:
1 1/2 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 cup cotija or feta cheese, crumbled
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Rice Bowl:
2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cilantro-lime rice)
Extra lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced chicken and season with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Make the Street Corn:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the corn and sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly charred.
In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), chili powder, cotija cheese, lime juice, and cilantro.
Add the cooked corn to the mixture and stir until well combined. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Bowl:
Divide the cooked rice among bowls.
Top each serving of rice with the seasoned chicken and a generous spoonful of the street corn mixture.
Garnish with extra cotija cheese, cilantro, and lime wedges for additional flavor.
Methods:
1. Marination Method: To infuse more flavor into the chicken, marinate it with the spices and olive oil for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking.
2. Grilling Method: Instead of pan-cooking, the chicken can be grilled for an added smoky flavor. Simply season and grill on medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes per side.
3. Flavor Variations: You can adjust the level of spice by adding more chili powder or using a different variety of chili. The street corn dressing can be made spicier by incorporating some jalapeño or hot sauce.
History:
Mexican street corn, also known as “Elote,” has been a staple of Mexican street food for generations. Typically grilled and slathered with mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice, Elote is a beloved snack at food carts and festivals throughout Mexico. The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a contemporary take on this traditional snack, making it more substantial as a full meal while preserving the bold and refreshing flavors of Elote.
Benefits:
Protein-Packed: Chicken breast provides lean protein, which helps with muscle building and repair.
Fiber-Rich: Corn and cilantro contribute fiber, which supports digestion and heart health.
Vitamins and Minerals: This dish is rich in vitamins like vitamin C (from lime and cilantro) and essential minerals, including calcium and magnesium from the cotija cheese.
Balanced Meal: The rice offers a complex carbohydrate base, fueling the body with sustained energy while keeping the dish light but filling.
Nutrition (per serving):
Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 34g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 6g
Conclusion:
The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a delightful and satisfying meal that brings together all the flavors of a traditional Mexican street food with the heartiness of a rice bowl. It’s versatile, customizable, and packed with nutrients that make it a well-rounded meal for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re looking for something quick and flavorful or planning a family meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
Lovers of the Dish:
This recipe will be loved by anyone who enjoys bold, zesty flavors with a bit of spice and creaminess. It’s perfect for fans of Mexican cuisine, food lovers who enjoy rice bowls, or anyone who appreciates a balanced meal full of textures and flavors.
Feel free to experiment with different spices or add extra vegetables to make it your own!