Street Corn Chicken Bowl is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings the vibrant essence of street food right to your dining table. This dish, inspired by the popular Mexican street corn known as elote, combines tender chicken with the rich, creamy, and slightly spicy toppings that make street corn so beloved. The history of this dish is rooted in the bustling streets of Mexico, where vendors serve up grilled corn slathered in mayonnaise, cheese, and spices, creating a mouthwatering experience that has transcended borders.
People adore the Street Corn Chicken Bowl not just for its incredible taste but also for its satisfying texture and convenience. The combination of juicy chicken, crunchy corn, and creamy dressing creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Plus, it’s a one-bowl meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. Join me as we explore how to create this irresistible Street Corn Chicken Bowl that will surely become a favorite in your home!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional for heat)
Preparing the Chicken
- Start by preheating your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. This will ensure that the chicken gets a nice sear and grill marks.
- While the grill is heating up, take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a better sear.
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This will be your marinade for the chicken.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure they are evenly coated. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Once the grill is hot, place the chicken on it. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on one side without moving it, allowing it to develop a nice char.
- Flip the chicken and grill for another 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- After resting, slice the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces, depending on your preference.
Preparing the Corn
- If you’re using fresh corn, you’ll want to grill it as well. Husk the corn and remove all the silk. Brush it lightly with olive oil and season with salt.
- Place the corn on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until it’s charred and cooked through. If you’re using frozen corn, you can skip this step and simply sauté it.
- For frozen corn, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Once hot, add the corn and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and slightly caramelized.
- Once the corn is cooked, let it cool slightly, then cut the kernels off the cob if you used fresh corn. If you used frozen, just set it aside.
Making the Sauce
- In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lime juice, and half of the crumbled cotija cheese. This will create a creamy, tangy sauce that adds a delicious flavor to the bowl.
- Mix well until all the ingredients are combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. You can add a pinch of salt or more lime juice if you like it tangier.
Assembling the Bowl
- Now it’s time to assemble your Street Corn Chicken Bowl! Start by placing a generous scoop of cooked rice at the bottom of each bowl.
- Next, add a portion of the grilled chicken on top of the rice. Make sure to arrange it nicely for a beautiful presentation.
- Then, add the grilled or sautéed corn over the chicken. This adds a sweet and smoky flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
- Drizzle the creamy sauce over the chicken and corn. Don’t be shy; this sauce is what brings everything together!
- Top the bowl with sliced avocado, diced red onion, and jalapeño slices if you’re feeling adventurous and want some heat.
- Finally, sprinkle
Conclusion:
In summary, the Street Corn Chicken Bowl is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners or impress guests at a gathering. This vibrant dish combines the smoky, sweet flavors of street corn with tender, juicy chicken, creating a delightful harmony that will have your taste buds dancing. The creamy dressing and fresh toppings add layers of texture and flavor, making each bite a delicious experience. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your Street Corn Chicken Bowl with a side of tortilla chips and salsa for a fun, casual meal. You can also customize it by adding black beans for extra protein, avocado for creaminess, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to make it your own based on your preferences or what you have on hand. I encourage you to give this Street Corn Chicken Bowl a try and share your experience with friends and family. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or put your own spin on it, I’m sure you’ll love the flavors and the joy it brings to your table. Don’t forget to snap a photo and share it on social media—let’s spread the love for this delicious dish! Happy cooking! Print
Street Corn Chicken Bowl: A Delicious Recipe for a Flavorful Meal
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Enjoy a vibrant and flavorful Street Corn Chicken Bowl, featuring grilled chicken, sweet corn, creamy sauce, and fresh toppings over a bed of rice. Perfect for a satisfying meal any day of the week!
Ingredients
- Cotija cheese
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced tomatoes
- Black beans
- Hot sauce
- Grilled vegetables
- Tofu
- Rice
- Grilled chicken
- Sweet corn
- Creamy sauce
Instructions
- Top the bowl with the remaining cotija cheese and chopped cilantro for a fresh finish.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Street Corn Chicken Bowl!
Notes
- You can customize this bowl by adding other toppings like diced tomatoes, black beans, or your favorite hot sauce.
- If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables or tofu.
- This recipe is great for meal prep; you can store the components separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
