This Healthy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a colorful mix of juicy chicken, sweet corn, and fluffy rice. Topped with fresh herbs, it’s like a fun party in a bowl!
You won’t believe how easy it is to make! Just grill the chicken, throw in some corn, and mix it all up. Perfect for meal prep, and it’s sure to impress anyone you share it with!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly. You could swap it for tofu or chickpeas if you’re looking for a plant-based option.
Corn: Fresh corn adds great sweetness, but frozen corn works well too! If corn isn’t available, consider using diced bell peppers for a crunchy texture.
Rice: I often use brown rice for added fiber, but you can use white rice or even quinoa for a gluten-free alternative. Cauliflower rice can also lighten things up.
Cheese: Feta gives a nice salty kick, but if you want something milder, use mozzarella or skip it entirely for a dairy-free version!
Jalapeño: If you’re sensitive to spice, you can leave this out or use a milder pepper, like a green bell pepper, for flavor without the heat.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken can be tricky! Here are some steps to ensure it’s juicy and flavorful:
- Always season well with spices to enhance the flavor.
- Use medium heat to avoid burning while cooking.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side. Check with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing. This helps keep the juices inside!
How Can You Make The Best Soft Boiled Egg?
Soft boiled eggs add creaminess! Here’s how to make them perfectly:
- Bring a pot of water to a gentle boil.
- Gently add the eggs and cook for about 6 minutes for that perfect soft center.
- Transfer them to an ice bath for a few minutes to stop the cooking and make peeling easier.
Peel them carefully and add them to your bowl—yum!
Healthy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 1 tablespoon crumbled feta or cotija cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 small jalapeño, sliced thinly (optional)
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 1 soft boiled egg (optional)
- Olive oil for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Begin by preparing the rice according to package instructions. Whether you’re using white or brown rice, get it simmering and set it aside when it’s done, keeping it warm for later.
2. Season the Chicken:
Grab a small bowl and mix together the chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub this flavorful mix all over the chicken breast, making sure it’s well coated.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breast and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until it’s cooked through and has a nice char. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and slice it into strips.
4. Cook the Corn:
Using the same skillet, throw in the corn kernels. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re warm and slightly charred. This gives added flavor!
5. Prepare the Egg:
If you’re adding a soft boiled egg, bring a pot of water to a gentle simmer. Carefully add the egg and let it simmer for about 6 minutes. Once cooked, transfer it to an ice bath to cool briefly, then peel and set aside.
6. Assemble the Bowl:
Now it’s time to build your bowl! Start with a generous base of the warm rice. On top, arrange the sliced chicken, sautéed corn, avocado slices, chopped red onion, and if you like some heat, add the jalapeño slices and fresh cilantro.
7. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle some crumbled feta or cotija cheese over the top of your ingredients. Place a few lime wedges on the side for a fresh burst of flavor!
8. Serve:
To finish, add the soft boiled egg if you’re using it. Before digging in, squeeze fresh lime juice over everything to tie all those flavors together. Enjoy your Healthy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl—it’s nutritious and so satisfying!
FAQ for Healthy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice is a great option if you’re looking for added fiber and nutrients. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as brown rice typically takes longer to cook than white rice.
What If I Don’t Have Corn?
No worries! If corn isn’t available, you can substitute it with diced bell peppers or even zucchini. Both will add a nice crunch to the bowl!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Of course! Simply omit the chicken and add more veggies or plant-based protein like black beans or grilled tofu. Both will keep the dish hearty and satisfying.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, and consider adding a splash of lime juice for extra freshness when serving!
