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High Protein BBQ Chicken Street Corn Bowls (Summer Meal Prep Winner) - Fresh, Easy, and Satisfying

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Protein: 1.5–2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • BBQ Sauce: 3/4–1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce (low sugar if preferred)
  • Corn: 3 cups corn kernels (fresh off the cob, canned, or frozen)
  • Base: 3 cups cooked brown rice, white rice, or quinoa
  • Street Corn Mix-Ins: 1/3 cup crumbled cotija or feta, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, 1 jalapeño (optional), 1/4 red onion finely diced
  • Yogurt Crema: 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1–2 tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp chili powder, pinch of salt
  • Seasonings for Chicken: 1 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp cumin, salt, pepper
  • Pan/Grill Essentials: Olive oil or avocado oil, lime wedges
  • Optional Toppings: Avocado, hot sauce, green onions, shredded lettuce, or pickled onions

Instructions
 

  • Cook your base: Make rice or quinoa according to package directions. Fluff and set aside.
  • Season the chicken: Pat dry. Mix chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub onto chicken.
  • Cook the chicken: Grill over medium-high 5–7 minutes per side, or sear in a skillet with a little oil until cooked through. Internal temp should reach 165°F/74°C.
  • Sauce it: Brush or toss the hot chicken with BBQ sauce. Let rest 5 minutes, then slice or dice.
  • Char the corn: In a hot skillet with a drizzle of oil, cook corn 4–6 minutes until some kernels are browned. Season with salt and a squeeze of lime.
  • Make the yogurt crema: Stir Greek yogurt, lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Thin with a splash of water if needed.
  • Mix the street corn: In a bowl, combine corn, red onion, jalapeño (if using), cotija, and cilantro. Add a spoonful of crema and toss lightly.
  • Assemble: Divide rice among bowls. Top with BBQ chicken, a generous scoop of street corn, and drizzle with more crema. Add avocado or hot sauce if you like.
  • Finish with freshness: Squeeze lime over the top and garnish with extra cilantro.