Chicken Corn Rice Bowls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together some of the best flavors and textures in one bowl. The tender, seasoned chicken pairs perfectly with the light and fluffy basmati rice, while the sweet corn adds a burst of flavor and crunch. The feta cheese brings a creamy and tangy touch, and the cilantro garnish gives a fresh kick. The dressing ties it all together with its smooth, zesty flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or something to prepare in advance, these Chicken Corn Rice Bowls are sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb chicken breast, skinless and boneless, diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp paprika powder
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp lime zest, grated

For the Rice Bowls:

• 2 cups cooked basmati rice
• 1 (15 oz) can whole kernel corn, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

For Garnish:

• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken to the pan and season with paprika, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and browned on all sides.
2. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream, minced garlic, paprika, and lime zest. Stir until smooth and set aside.
3. Assemble the rice bowls: In each bowl, start with a base of cooked basmati rice. Top with a portion of the seasoned chicken, drained corn, and crumbled feta cheese.
4. Garnish and serve: Drizzle the sour cream dressing over the bowls, and finish by garnishing with chopped cilantro and a lime wedge on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Protein Options: Swap out the chicken for ground turkey, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Rice Variety: Try quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice as an alternative to basmati rice.
• Spicy Kick: Add some chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to bring more heat to the dish.
• Add Veggies: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers, onions, or even avocado for more freshness and flavor.
• Dressing Swap: If you prefer a different dressing, try using Greek yogurt, tahini, or a vinaigrette for a lighter or different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Chicken Corn Rice Bowls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the rice and chicken in a microwave-safe bowl in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. You can also reheat on the stovetop by heating the chicken and rice over medium heat with a splash of water to prevent drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?

Yes, frozen corn works well in this recipe. Just thaw it before adding it to the bowls.

2. Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken, rice, and corn ahead of time. Store them separately and assemble the bowls when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I substitute the sour cream dressing?

Absolutely! You can use Greek yogurt, tahini, or even a store-bought dressing like ranch or chipotle mayo.

4. What other proteins can I use in place of chicken?

You can substitute the chicken with ground turkey, beef, shrimp, or even a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh.

5. Can I make this recipe spicier?

Yes! Add some chili flakes, jalapeños, or hot sauce to give the dish a spicy kick.

6. Can I use a different type of rice?

You can substitute basmati rice with quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a different twist.

7. How long does it take to cook the chicken?

The chicken will take about 6-8 minutes to cook through, depending on the size of the pieces.

8. Can I add more vegetables to the bowl?

Yes! Feel free to add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or even some shredded lettuce for added texture and nutrition.

9. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check the ingredients of any packaged items like the dressing or feta cheese to be sure.

10. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with tofu or a hearty vegetable like roasted sweet potatoes or beans.

Conclusion

Chicken Corn Rice Bowls are a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal with minimal effort. The blend of seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, sweet corn, and creamy dressing creates a satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it for lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your meal rotation!

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