Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl: An Amazing Essential Recipe
Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is an incredible weeknight meal that is bursting with flavors. If you’re looking for something quick yet flavorful, this bowl ticks all the boxes. Imagine tender chicken, sweet corn, spicy crema, and a medley of toppings all nested on a bed of fluffy rice. This dish doesn’t just satisfy hunger; it excites your taste buds. Street corn, or “elote,” is a cherished Mexican street food that combines corn, mayonnaise, cheese, and spices. However, in this recipe, we take that concept to new heights by incorporating it into a hearty chicken rice bowl. With every bite, you experience a delightful blend of textures and tastes, making it perfect for any casual dinner or even meal prep for the week ahead. Are you ready to explore this flavor-packed masterpiece? In this article, you will learn everything you need about creating the Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. From preparation and cooking times to key ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you’re covered! Don’t be surprised if this becomes your new favorite weeknight dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl offers a delicious combination of flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more. Here are several reasons why you’ll adore this recipe:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of smoky chicken, sweet corn, and zesty crema creates an unforgettable taste.
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Personalize it with your favorite toppings or make it vegetarian by substituting chicken with black beans or tofu.
- Balanced Meal: Each bowl includes protein, carbs, and vegetables, making it a nutritious option.
- Take it Anywhere: The bowls are great for meal prepping or taking to work for lunch.
- Visual Appeal: The colorful ingredients make this dish not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Creating this Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a breeze, taking a total of about 30 to 35 minutes from start to finish. Here’s a quick breakdown of the time involved:- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) sweet corn, drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ½ cup crumbled Cotija cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these straightforward steps to create your Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl:- Cook Rice: Begin by preparing your rice according to package instructions. Set aside once done.
- Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Season the chicken with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side or until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Shred Chicken: After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet. Allow it to rest for a few minutes, then shred it using two forks.
- Prepare Corn: In the same skillet, add the drained corn. Cook for around 3-4 minutes until warmed through.
- Make Crema: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and lime juice. Mix well to create a creamy sauce.
- Assemble Bowls: In serving bowls, add a base of rice, followed by the shredded chicken and corn.
- Add Toppings: Generously drizzle the crema over the top, then sprinkle with Cotija cheese and fresh cilantro.
- Garnish: Add avocado slices and jalapeño, if using, for an extra kick.
- Serve: Finish with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the bowl.
How to Serve
Serving your Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl can be as simple or elaborate as you wish. Here are some tips on enhancing your serving experience:- Presentation: Use colorful bowls to make the dish visually appealing. Layer the ingredients attractively for a stunning effect.
- Accompaniments: Offer additional toppings like hot sauce, diced tomatoes, or extra lime slices on the side for guests to customize their bowls.
- Share the Flavor: Make it a family-style meal by placing all the ingredients on a table and letting everyone assemble their own bowls.
- Perfect Pairings: Consider pairing your dish with a refreshing cucumber salad or chips and salsa for a fuller meal.
- Leftovers: Keep any leftovers in separate containers. This will help maintain freshness and flavor for your next meal.
Additional Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: To enhance the flavor, opt for fresh corn when in season. It adds a natural sweetness that canned corn can’t replicate.
- Spice It Up: Tailor the level of spice by adjusting the amount of chili powder or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Make It Creamier: For a richer crema, consider mixing in a bit of sour cream along with the mayonnaise.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as parsley or green onions for a unique twist.
- Leftover Ideas: Use any leftover chicken and corn in burritos, tacos, or salads throughout the week.
Recipe Variation
Feel free to explore various adaptations! Here are some options to spark your creativity:- Vegetarian Delight: Substitute the chicken with grilled veggies or a plant-based protein like jackfruit for a fully vegetarian version.
- Fiesta Bowl: Add black beans or pinto beans and top with salsa for an extra flavor punch.
- Cheesy Goodness: Incorporate shredded cheese into the rice base before layering the other ingredients for a gooey texture.
- Southwestern Twist: Introduce ingredients such as diced bell peppers or corn salsa to give a southwestern flair.
- Bowl with a Kick: Include diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a spicy version.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Store your Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It should last up to 3 days while retaining its flavors.
- Freezing: If you wish to freeze the dish, pack the components separately, ensuring the chicken and toppings are stored in separate containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Gently warm the chicken and corn in a skillet or microwave to maintain texture. Avoid reheating the avocado or crema, as these are best fresh.
Special Equipment
You won’t need too many advanced tools to prepare this dish, but here are some essentials:- Large skillet: For sautéing the chicken and corn.
- Mixing bowls: For preparing the crema and mixing ingredients.
- Forks: For shredding the chicken easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accuracy in your ingredients.
- Serving bowls: To present the dish beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can cook the chicken and corn ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble the bowls just before serving for optimal freshness.
What can I use instead of Cotija cheese?
If Cotija cheese is unavailable, feta or queso fresco can be good substitutes to impart a similar salty tang.
Can I make the crema dairy-free?
Certainly! Substitute mayonnaise with a dairy-free alternative, and use lime juice for flavor.
What alcohol pairs well with this dish?
A light beer or a citrusy cocktail, such as a margarita, pairs well with the bold flavors of this rice bowl.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe typically serves about four people, but you can easily adjust the ingredient amounts to accommodate your needs.