The Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a culinary delight that combines the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn with the hearty satisfaction of a rice bowl. This dish is inspired by elote, a popular Mexican street food that features corn on the cob slathered in a creamy, spicy sauce, then topped with cheese and lime. The evolution of this beloved snack into a rice bowl allows for a more substantial meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner.
The chicken adds protein to the mix, while the rice serves as a comforting base that absorbs all the delicious flavors. Whether you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine or simply looking for a new and exciting dish to try, this Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl will not disappoint. For more about the rich history of Mexican street food, you can visit this resource.
Ingredients for Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 jalapeño, sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
Instructions for Making Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season the diced chicken with chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the chicken in the skillet until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the corn kernels and cook until slightly charred, about 5 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lime zest, and lime juice.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, cooked chicken, and charred corn.
- Pour the creamy sauce over the rice mixture and toss until well combined.
- Top with crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeño, and sliced avocado.
- Serve warm and enjoy.
Nutritional Information
The Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and growth. The corn provides a good amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. Avocados are rich in healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fat, which helps maintain good heart health. Cotija cheese adds calcium for strong bones. This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, especially if you opt for brown rice or cauliflower rice as a substitute for white rice.
By making a few healthy swaps, you can tailor the nutrition to meet your dietary needs. For more detailed nutritional information, visit this nutritional guide.
Wine/Beverage Pairings With Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
A Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl pairs excellently with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. For an alcoholic option, consider a crisp, refreshing white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Mexican beer such as a Corona or Pacifico. These drinks complement the spicy and creamy elements of the dish. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a lime-infused sparkling water or an iced hibiscus tea with a splash of lime would be a perfect match, enhancing the citrus notes in the dish.
Cooking Tips and Variations
To make your Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl even more delicious, consider these tips and variations. Try marinating the chicken in lime juice and garlic for a few hours before cooking to infuse it with extra flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with black beans or tofu. For added crunch, sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips over the top just before serving. If you enjoy a bit more heat, add extra sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also experiment with different cheeses; feta or Parmesan can be great substitutes for cotija.
Lastly, if you’re watching your calorie intake, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the sauce for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
When serving your Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, consider presentation to enhance the dining experience. Serve the rice bowl in individual bowls to ensure each serving is well-proportioned and visually appealing. Arrange the toppings like cotija cheese, cilantro, and avocado slices in sections over the top of each bowl, allowing diners to see the ingredients clearly. This also makes for an Instagram-worthy presentation. For a family-style meal, you can serve the rice, chicken, corn, and toppings separately, allowing everyone to build their own bowl according to personal preferences.
This is particularly enjoyable for gatherings where guests appreciate customizing their meals. Finally, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or a side of tortilla chips to complement the main dish.
Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Health Benefits
The Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl offers several health benefits, making it a great choice for a balanced meal. Chicken provides high-quality protein, essential for tissue repair and muscle growth. The corn adds dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight by keeping you full longer. Avocado, rich in monounsaturated fats, supports heart health and provides vitamins like E, C, and B6. The lime juice and zest bring in a dose of vitamin C, boosting the immune system.
For those watching their calorie intake, using brown rice or cauliflower rice can reduce carbs while adding more fiber. Adjusting the amount of cheese or using low-fat options can also help maintain lower fat content in the dish.
FAQs About Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can use feta or Parmesan as a substitute for cotija cheese if you prefer or if it’s not available.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is naturally gluten-free as long as all the ingredients are checked for cross-contamination.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace chicken with black beans or tofu for a vegetarian version of this dish.
The Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a delightful and versatile dish that combines the best of Mexican street food flavors in a convenient rice bowl format. Whether you’re preparing a family meal or looking for a new dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. It’s easy to customize based on dietary preferences or availability of ingredients, making it a flexible addition to any meal plan. Enjoy the blend of creamy, spicy, and fresh flavors in every bite.