Street Corn Chicken Rice

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Introduction

Street Corn Chicken Rice is a flavorful and hearty dish inspired by the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn. The combination of tender chicken, seasoned rice, and the irresistible tastes of charred corn, tangy lime, creamy cheese, and a hint of spice creates a symphony of flavors in every bite.

I remember the first time I made this for a weekend gathering—everyone was immediately hooked. The smoky, grilled corn adds an unexpected depth, while the creamy cheese and lime bring that perfect balance of richness and freshness. The chicken adds protein and substance, making this dish satisfying enough for any meal.

What I love about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. It all comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. It’s bold, zesty, and comforting—a delightful twist on traditional rice dishes that’s perfect for any occasion.

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Meal prepping
  • Potlucks and gatherings
  • Fans of Mexican-inspired flavors

Why You’ll Love This Street Corn Chicken Rice

Here’s why Street Corn Chicken Rice will become a staple in your recipe collection:

  • One-Pan Convenience: This recipe is cooked in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze.
  • Packed with Flavor: The dish features a bold combination of smoky, tangy, creamy, and spicy flavors.
  • Versatile and Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
  • Perfect for Leftovers: The flavors deepen over time, making it a fantastic option for next-day meals.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: With its vibrant flavors, this dish is sure to impress both kids and adults alike.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 35 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Street Corn Chicken Rice:

For the Chicken:

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Rice:

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 ears of corn (or 1½ cups frozen corn kernels)
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Garnish:

  • ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream or mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges
  • 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional, for extra heat)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Cotija Cheese: Adds a tangy and salty flavor that complements the sweet corn and savory chicken.
  • Lime: Enhances the overall freshness and ties all the flavors together.
  • Chili Powder and Cumin: Bring smoky and earthy notes to the dish, making it irresistibly aromatic.
  • Fresh Corn: Charred for a sweet and smoky flavor. Frozen corn works as an excellent alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Street Corn Chicken Rice:

Prepare the Chicken:

  1. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning all over the chicken thighs or breasts.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Rice:

  1. Char the Corn: If using fresh corn, remove the kernels from the cob. In the same skillet, add a little olive oil and cook the corn over high heat for 3-4 minutes until slightly charred. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Toast the Spices: Stir in the chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin, allowing the spices to bloom for 30 seconds.
  4. Cook the Rice: Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the spices. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Assemble the Dish:

  1. Combine Ingredients: Once the rice is cooked, stir in the charred corn, sour cream (or mayonnaise), and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Mix until creamy and well combined.
  2. Top with Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken and layer it over the rice.
  3. Garnish: Sprinkle the dish with crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and sliced jalapeño, if desired. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Rice

Street Corn Chicken Rice can be served in various ways to suit the occasion:

  • As a One-Pan Meal: Serve straight from the skillet for a casual, family-style dinner.
  • With Tortillas: Use as a filling for tacos or burritos.
  • For Meal Prep: Divide into containers for an easy grab-and-go lunch or dinner.
  • With a Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a lighter option.

Additional Tips for Street Corn Chicken Rice

Follow these tips to elevate your Street Corn Chicken Rice:

  • Use Bone-In Chicken: For extra flavor, use bone-in chicken thighs and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  • Fresh vs. Frozen Corn: Fresh corn is ideal, but frozen corn is a great alternative when fresh isn’t available.
  • Customize the Heat: Adjust the level of spice by adding more or less chili powder or including fresh jalapeños.
  • Don’t Skip the Lime: Lime juice is essential for brightening the dish and balancing the richness.
  • Toast the Rice: Toasting the rice before adding the broth enhances its flavor and ensures it cooks evenly.
  • Make It Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with black beans or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian version.

Recipe Variations for Street Corn Chicken Rice

Here are 10 ways to customize Street Corn Chicken Rice:

  1. Vegetarian Street Corn Rice: Skip the chicken and add black beans or roasted vegetables instead.
  2. Cheesy Street Corn Rice: Stir in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for an extra creamy texture.
  3. Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice: Add diced chipotle peppers in adobo for a smoky and spicy kick.
  4. Seafood Variation: Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp or fish for a seafood twist.
  5. Mexican Rice Bowl: Serve with guacamole, pico de gallo, and shredded lettuce for a rice bowl.
  6. Street Corn and Sausage Rice: Replace chicken with spicy sausage for a heartier option.
  7. Low-Carb Version: Substitute the rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
  8. Creamy Avocado Street Corn Rice: Top with diced avocado or a dollop of guacamole for added creaminess.
  9. Street Corn Pasta: Replace rice with cooked pasta, like orzo or penne, for a pasta variation.
  10. Vegan Street Corn Rice: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free cheese, and replace chicken with tofu.

Freezing and Storage for Street Corn Chicken Rice

  • Freezing: Allow the dish to cool completely, then store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Special Equipment for Street Corn Chicken Rice

Here are some tools to make preparing this recipe even easier:

  • Large Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet is perfect for one-pan cooking.
  • Sharp Knife: For slicing the chicken and prepping the vegetables.
  • Rice Cooker (Optional): If you prefer, you can cook the rice separately in a rice cooker.

Frequently Asked Questions for Street Corn Chicken Rice

  1. Can I use brown rice?
    Yes, but adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.
  2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
    Absolutely! The flavors meld beautifully when reheated, making it a great meal-prep option.
  3. What can I substitute for cotija cheese?
    Feta cheese is a great substitute if cotija isn’t available.
  4. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
    Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly for a quicker version.
  5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
    Yes, omit the sour cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Conclusion

Street Corn Chicken Rice is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings the essence of Mexican street food straight to your table. With juicy, tender chicken, perfectly seasoned rice, and a tangy street corn topping, this one-pan meal is as satisfying as it is delicious. The combination of creamy corn, zesty lime, and fresh cilantro adds the perfect finishing touch to this crowd-pleasing dish.

Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also highly customizable to suit your taste. Whether you add extra spice, swap in your favorite veggies, or top it with a dollop of sour cream or cheese, Street Corn Chicken Rice will always hit the spot.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or meal prep, this dish is a guaranteed winner. I’d love to see how your Street Corn Chicken Rice turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!