Street Corn Chicken Bowls

You’ll love these meal-prep-friendly Street Corn Chicken Bowls! The juicy blackened chicken sits on a bed of tender rice and sweet and tangy street corn, drizzled with a jalapeno cilantro lime dressing and topped with avocado and lime wedges. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions, this dish is not only delicious but also customizable for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or looking for a healthy lunch option, these bowls stand out with their vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare several servings at once for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of blackened chicken, street corn salad, and creamy jalapeno sauce creates a burst of flavors in every bite.
• Customizable: Make it your own by adding favorite toppings like cheese or additional veggies.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Street Corn Chicken Bowls efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet
• Measuring cups
• Mixing bowls
• Rice cooker (optional)
• Spatula

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken evenly and achieving that perfect blackened flavor.
• Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results every time.
• Mixing bowls: Great for combining ingredients without mess while prepping your bowls.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs chicken breasts or tenderloins (cut into 2 chunks)
• 2 tablespoons blackened seasoning

For the Rice

• 2 cups dry jasmine rice (or your preferred rice)

For the Sauce

• 1 cup prepared homemade Chuy’s creamy jalapeno dip

For the Street Corn Salad

• 3 cups prepared Street Corn Salad

For Toppings

• 1 avocado (diced)
• 1 lime (sliced into wedges)

Additional Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• optional: tajin seasoning

How to Make Street Corn Chicken Bowls

Step 1: Prepare the Street Corn and Sauce

Start by preparing the street corn salad and creamy jalapeno sauce. I recommend doing this one or two days ahead to enhance flavors.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

Cook two cups of rice according to the package instructions. While the rice cooks, you can prepare the chicken.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Drizzle the chicken chunks with one tablespoon of olive oil. Then, season liberally with blackened seasoning to ensure every piece is flavorful.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add two tablespoons of oil or enough to coat the pan. Once hot, add in the seasoned chicken pieces. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 5: Build Your Bowls

To assemble, add 1 cup of cooked rice into each bowl. Top with 2/3 cup of street corn salad, followed by a scoop of blackened chicken. Drizzle with creamy jalapeno sauce, sprinkle diced avocado on top, and finish with a lime wedge. If desired, add a sprinkle of tajin seasoning for an extra kick!

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Bowls

Serving Street Corn Chicken Bowls can be a delightful experience. They are versatile and can be customized to suit different tastes, making them perfect for any occasion.

Customize with Fresh Toppings

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh burst of flavor and vibrant color.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: For a creamy texture that balances the spice.
• Lime Zest: Enhances the lime flavor and adds an aromatic touch.

Pair with Crunchy Elements

• Tortilla Chips: Offers a satisfying crunch that complements the bowl’s soft textures.
• Shredded Lettuce: Adds a fresh, crisp layer to your bowls for added crunch.

Make It a Family Feast

• Build-Your-Own Style: Let everyone assemble their own bowls with various toppings, allowing for personalization.
• Serve with Grilled Vegetables: Enhances the meal with additional nutrients and flavors.

How to Perfect Street Corn Chicken Bowls

To make your Street Corn Chicken Bowls truly stand out, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Seasoning: Marinate the chicken in blackened seasoning for a deeper flavor.
• Use Quality Rice: Selecting jasmine rice enhances the dish’s overall taste and aroma.
• Cook Chicken Properly: Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and juiciness.
• Prep Ahead: Prepare the street corn salad and creamy jalapeno dip in advance for quicker assembly.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Choose ripe avocados and fresh limes to elevate the dish’s flavors.
• Experiment with Textures: Add nuts or seeds for an unexpected crunch element that creates contrast.

Best Side Dishes for Street Corn Chicken Bowls

Pairing your Street Corn Chicken Bowls with delicious side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A flavorful blend of corn, lime, cilantro, and cheese that mirrors the bowl’s flavors.
2. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that adds richness and pairs well with tortilla chips.
3. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, tomatoes, and bell peppers for added protein and fiber.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the savory elements of the bowls beautifully.
5. Cilantro Lime Rice: A zesty variation on plain rice that ties together all components of the meal.
6. Grilled Zucchini Slices: Lightly seasoned grilled veggies that add color and nutrition without overpowering flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Street Corn Chicken Bowls, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and presentation.

• Overcooking the chicken: Ensure you monitor the cooking time closely. Chicken should be cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to avoid dryness.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season your chicken well with blackened seasoning. This enhances flavor significantly.
• Using old rice: Freshly cooked rice makes a difference in taste and texture. Always use rice that has just been cooked for the best experience.
• Neglecting freshness in toppings: Always use fresh avocado and lime for the best flavor. Diced avocado should be added just before serving to maintain its freshness.
• Not preparing sauces in advance: Preparing your street corn salad and creamy jalapeno sauce ahead of time can save you stress during assembly.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Street Corn Chicken Bowls in airtight containers.
• They will last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Street Corn Chicken Bowls

• Place the bowls in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Street Corn Chicken Bowls

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bowl in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a little olive oil and stir-fry until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Street Corn Chicken Bowls?

Street Corn Chicken Bowls are a flavorful meal featuring seasoned chicken, jasmine rice, street corn salad, creamy jalapeno dressing, avocado, and lime.

How can I customize my Street Corn Chicken Bowls?

You can customize your bowls by adding other proteins like grilled shrimp or tofu, or by including additional vegetables like bell peppers or black beans.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! The components can be prepared ahead of time and stored separately in the fridge or freezer for easy assembly later.

What goes well with Street Corn Chicken Bowls?

These bowls pair nicely with a side of tortilla chips or a light salad for added crunch and freshness.

Conclusion

Street Corn Chicken Bowls are not only delicious but also versatile and perfect for meal prep. With the rich flavors from the seasoned chicken and vibrant toppings, they make a satisfying dish that you can easily customize. Don’t hesitate to try different ingredients or spices to make this recipe your own!

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