If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors yet remains incredibly simple to prepare, you’re in for a treat with this Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe. It combines tender, juicy chicken with the sweet pop of corn and a creamy, tangy sauce that elevates every bite, served over fluffy rice to soak up all those wonderful flavors. This recipe feels fresh, hearty, and utterly satisfying, perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave something bright and comforting all at once.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these few, straightforward ingredients is all it takes to whip up a crowd-pleaser that balances savory, creamy, and zesty notes perfectly. Each component plays a key role: the chicken provides protein and warmth; the corn adds sweetness and texture; the lime juice and spices bring that irresistible punch; and fresh cilantro lends a final pop of herbal brightness.
- 2 cups cooked rice: Use your favorite rice for a fluffy base that anchors the dish beautifully.
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced: Lean and tender, chicken soaks up the flavors and cooks quickly.
- 1 cup sweet corn, canned or frozen: Adds a touch of natural sweetness and delightful bite.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Creates a luscious, creamy sauce that ties everything together.
- 1/4 cup lime juice: Brings bright acidity to balance the creaminess and sweet corn.
- 1 tsp chili powder: Provides a smoky warmth that subtly heats up the dish.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: A flavor enhancer that adds aromatic depth without overpowering.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Essential for amplifying all the natural tastes in the bowl.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Gives just a hint of sharpness and complexity.
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped: Fresh and fragrant, it’s the perfect finishing touch.
How to Make Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and cook the diced chicken breast until it’s no longer pink inside and has a nice golden exterior. This ensures that every bite is juicy and flavorful without any dry spots.
Step 2: Add the Sweet Corn
Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, toss in the sweet corn. The corn warms through in just a few minutes, releasing its natural sweetness that perfectly complements the savory chicken.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This zesty sauce will coat the chicken and corn with a creamy, tangy layer that brings the dish to life.
Step 4: Mix Chicken and Corn with the Sauce
Pour the sauce over the warm chicken and corn mixture, stirring gently until every piece is evenly coated. This step is where the flavors meld beautifully, with the spices and lime juice brightening up the creamy mayo base.
Step 5: Serve Over Rice
Lay down a generous bed of your cooked rice, then spoon the chicken-corn mixture on top. The rice soaks up the sauce perfectly, making each mouthful comforting and satisfying.
Step 6: Garnish with Fresh Cilantro
Finish by sprinkling chopped cilantro over the bowl for a fresh pop of color and herbaceous aroma. It adds that extra layer of flavor that lifts the entire dish.
How to Serve Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
In addition to fresh cilantro, feel free to add some slices of avocado for creaminess or a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese for that authentic street corn vibe. A wedge of lime on the side invites a little extra zing if you like your bowls tangier.
Side Dishes
This bowl shines as a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with a side of crunchy tortilla chips or a simple cucumber salad can add pleasant textures and refresh your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken and corn mixture in crisp lettuce cups, turning the bowl into handheld bites. Or layer the ingredients in a mason jar for a portable lunch option that’s as pretty as it is practical.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken, corn, and sauce mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, making for an easy next-day meal.
Freezing
This recipe freezes very well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Just be aware that the texture of the rice might change slightly when thawed.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the mixture in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave until heated through. For best results, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this recipe?
Absolutely! Brown rice makes a nutritious, fiber-rich substitute that pairs wonderfully with the flavors of this dish. Just keep in mind it takes a bit longer to cook.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe?
Yes! Swap out chicken for grilled tofu or black beans to keep it plant-based while still delivering plenty of protein and texture.
How spicy is this recipe?
The chili powder adds a gentle warmth that enhances the dish without overwhelming heat, making it accessible for most palates.
Can I use fresh corn instead of canned or frozen?
Fresh corn is a fantastic option when in season and will add a slightly sweeter, more crisp texture to the bowl.
What’s the best way to get meal prep friendly servings?
Cook a larger batch of rice and chicken-corn mixture ahead of time and portion into containers for grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe is such a winner every single time. It’s fast, flavorful, colorful, and packs a wonderful balance of creamy, tangy, and savory elements that keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re a busy home chef or a flavor seeker, this recipe deserves a spot on your regular rotation. Give it a go and see how easily it becomes a new favorite!
Print
Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl brings together tender cooked chicken, sweet corn, and a creamy, tangy mayo-lime sauce with a hint of chili and garlic. It’s a quick, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights, serving four in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup sweet corn, canned or frozen
Base
- 2 cups cooked rice
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat over medium heat and add the diced chicken. Cook thoroughly until no longer pink inside, about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
- Add the Corn: Stir in the sweet corn into the skillet with the cooked chicken. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the corn through and meld flavors.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Mixture: Add the mayonnaise sauce to the chicken and corn mixture in the skillet. Stir well to evenly coat all ingredients.
- Assemble the Bowl: Spoon the flavorful chicken-corn mixture over a bed of the cooked rice on serving plates or bowls.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top of each bowl for freshness and added color before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh corn if available for extra sweetness and texture.
- Adjust chili powder amount to control spiciness according to preference.
- May substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter sauce.
- Cook rice ahead of time to reduce overall meal preparation time.
- Garnish with extra lime wedges for an added citrusy kick.
