If you’re looking for a vibrant, satisfying meal that combines the bright flavors of fresh corn, creamy avocado, and tender chicken all nestled on a bed of fluffy rice, then the Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe is going to be your new favorite go-to. This dish bursts with texture and zesty lime-cilantro vibes that make each bite feel like a sunny festival for your taste buds. It is incredibly simple to make, yet impressive enough to serve any night of the week or to please unexpected guests without breaking a sweat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients just right is key for pulling off this bowl of deliciousness. Each item plays a crucial role, from bringing fresh brightness to adding hearty protein and satisfying creaminess. Let’s break down what you’ll need to get this dish on your table fast and fresh.
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs): Perfect for juicy, flavorful protein that cooks evenly and pairs beautifully with the spices.
- 2 cups fresh corn (or 1 can, drained): Brings sweet crunch and a summery essence, essential for that classic street corn taste.
- 2 ripe avocados, sliced: Creamy texture that balances the zest and spice perfectly.
- Juice of 2 limes: Offers a tangy punch that brightens and lifts every ingredient.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Adds aromatic freshness and a vibrant green pop.
- 3 cups cooked rice (white or brown): A fluffy base to soak up all the delicious juices and flavors.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps in cooking the chicken to golden perfection and sautéing the corn just right.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: For a subtle savory undertone without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 tsp cumin: Adds a warm, smoky depth that ties the dish together beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: The essential seasonings that enhance every flavor in the bowl.
How to Make Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
Start by coating the chicken breasts evenly with olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Heating your skillet on medium, place the chicken in and let it develop a golden brown crust, cooking about 6 minutes on each side until it’s perfectly cooked through and juicy inside. The seasoning brings that nice balance of warmth and savoriness that you want as the foundation of this bowl.
Step 2: Prepare the Corn
If you have fresh corn, slice the kernels off the cob; canned works just as well in a pinch. Using the same skillet to keep the flavors harmonious, sauté the corn for 3 to 5 minutes until it’s tender and slightly caramelized. This step unlocks that natural sweetness you crave in street corn and adds a lovely contrast to the tender chicken.
Step 3: Warm the Rice
While the chicken and corn are cooking, warm up your cooked rice in a microwave or on the stovetop to get it nice and fluffy. Rice serves as the perfect cozy base for soaking up the flavors of the chicken and corn mixture that will top it.
Step 4: Make the Lime-Cilantro Drizzle
Mix together freshly chopped cilantro with the juice of two limes in a small bowl. This simple drizzle is the magic touch that brings that fresh, zesty pop and an herbal lift, turning the bowl into a burst of layered flavors.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowl
Begin with a generous bed of warm rice in each serving bowl. Follow with the luscious chicken and sweet sautéed corn mixture, then tuck in creamy avocado slices on the side. Drizzle the lime-cilantro mixture all over to brighten the dish with acidity and fresh herb notes.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Serve these bowls up while everything is warm, garnished with extra cilantro if you like for a pop of color and even more fragrant goodness. This is the perfect time to add any additional spices or a sprinkle of cheese if you want to customize it further.
How to Serve Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes are a game changer here. Think extra cilantro, a sprinkle of crumbled Cotija cheese for that authentic street corn flair, or even a light drizzle of sour cream or a creamy chipotle sauce. The garnishes highlight the flavors and take the experience to the next level by adding visual appeal and a fresh bite.
Side Dishes
This bowl doesn’t need much on the side, but if you want to round out your meal, consider a crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette or some roasted sweet potatoes for a made-from-scratch feel. The simplicity of those sides lets the star flavors of the bowl shine.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your presentation up a notch by serving the bowl in rustic ceramic dishes or sturdy mason jars for an on-the-go twist. Layer the ingredients visibly to show off the colorful corn, bright avocado, and glistening chicken. Adding a lime wedge on the side invites guests to customize their lime kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover bowls can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the avocado slices separate if you want to maintain their fresh green appearance and prevent browning.
Freezing
While rice and chicken freeze well, the avocado and fresh cilantro do not. You can freeze the chicken and rice mixture in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months and add fresh avocado and cilantro only after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover chicken and rice gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add fresh avocado slices and cilantro after warming to keep that fresh texture and bright flavor, ensuring your bowl feels just as delicious as the first time.
FAQs
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen corn works well and is a convenient alternative when fresh is not in season. Just thaw and drain any excess water before sautéing for best results.
What kind of rice works best for this recipe?
Both white and brown rice work beautifully. Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and chewier texture, while white rice offers a lighter, fluffier base. Choose based on your preference and dietary needs.
Can I substitute the chicken for another protein?
Yes! Grilled shrimp or even tofu marinated in the same spices make excellent substitutes that maintain the spirit of the dish while giving you a tasty twist.
How spicy is the dish?
This recipe is mild in spice, focusing more on fresh, zesty, and savory flavors. You can easily add heat by sprinkling chili powder, cayenne, or topping with jalapeño slices.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, the Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free rice and spices, making it a perfect option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe enough for anyone craving a fresh, colorful, and satisfying meal that feels both comforting and exciting. It’s so easy to throw together, and the layers of flavor never fail to impress. Give this recipe a try soon — it just might become your new favorite weeknight dinner or potluck star.
Print
Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl combines juicy, spice-seasoned chicken with sweet sautéed corn, creamy avocado slices, and zesty lime-cilantro drizzle over a bed of fluffy rice. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a vibrant, flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual lunch.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables and Toppings
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels (or 1 can corn, drained)
- 2 ripe avocados, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
Base
- 3 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
Instructions
- Season and Cook Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Sauté Corn: If using fresh corn, cut the kernels off the cob. In the same skillet used for chicken, sauté the corn kernels for 3-5 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Warm Rice: Warm the cooked rice either in a pot on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
- Prepare Lime-Cilantro Drizzle: In a small bowl, mix the chopped cilantro with the juice of 2 limes. This adds a fresh, tangy flavor to the dish.
- Assemble Bowls: In serving bowls, layer the warm rice first, then top with the chicken and corn mixture. Add sliced avocado on top.
- Serve: Drizzle the lime-cilantro mixture over the bowls and garnish with extra cilantro if desired. Serve immediately for the best taste.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning.
- You can substitute grilled chicken breasts for a smoky flavor.
- Brown rice adds extra fiber and nutrients compared to white rice.
- If fresh corn is not available, canned corn works fine—just drain well.
- Avocados should be ripe but firm to hold their shape in the bowl.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
