Description
This Street Corn Chicken and Rice Bowl is a vibrant and flavorful dish inspired by Mexican street corn (esquites). Tender chicken, charred corn, a creamy topping with Cotija cheese, and a hint of spice make this a satisfying and easy-to-assemble meal.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 minced garlic cloves)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Street Corn Topping:
- 1 cup sweet corn kernels (grilled or charred, if possible)
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1 cup sour cream, divided
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
For the Rice and Assembly:
- 3 cups cooked rice
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: Combine lime juice, avocado oil, chili powder, cumin powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Marinate chicken thighs in this mixture for 15-30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Cook Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest, then slice.
- Prepare Street Corn Topping: In a bowl, combine grilled corn, red onion, ½ cup sour cream, mayonnaise, Cotija cheese, and chili powder. Season with salt, pepper, and lime juice to taste.
- Reheat Rice: Reheat cooked rice with a splash of water until warm and fluffy.
- Assemble Bowls: Divide rice among bowls. Top with sliced chicken, street corn topping, extra Cotija cheese, and cilantro. Garnish with lime wedges.
- Optional: Drizzle with extra sour cream and/or sprinkle with Tajin seasoning.
Notes
- Charred Corn: Grilling or charring the corn adds a smoky depth of flavor.
- Fresh Lime Juice: Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
- Reheating Rice: Add water when reheating rice to maintain its fluffiness.
- Spice: Add chopped jalapeño or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Topping Ideas: Consider adding diced avocado, pico de gallo, shredded lettuce, sliced jalapeños, or hot sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 25g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg