Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a vibrant and hearty dish that combines the smoky, tangy flavors of Mexican street corn with juicy, seasoned chicken and fluffy rice. The chicken is typically grilled or pan-seared with a blend of spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika, giving it a bold, zesty flavor. The street corn topping is made with charred corn, creamy mayo, zesty lime juice, and a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese and fresh cilantro. It’s all served over a bed of rice and garnished with extra lime for a burst of freshness.
I first made a Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl when I wanted a fun and flavorful dinner inspired by street food. The combination of smoky chicken, creamy corn, and tender rice was absolutely irresistible. What I love most about this dish is its versatility—you can use brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice as a base, and adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is perfect for meal prep, a quick weeknight dinner, or a flavorful lunch that will keep you energized all day!
Perfect for:
- Weeknight dinners
- Meal prepping
- Summer gatherings
- Mexican-inspired meals
- Quick and easy family meals
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl will become a staple in your kitchen:
- Bold Flavors: The combination of smoky chicken, sweet corn, and tangy sauce creates a flavor explosion.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make this dish perfect for busy weeknights.
- Protein-Packed: Grilled chicken provides a healthy and filling source of protein.
- Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to suit dietary preferences or available produce.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make ahead and store in portions for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- One-Bowl Meal: All your main components in one dish, making it both convenient and satisfying.
- Fresh and Vibrant: Lime, cilantro, and fresh corn brighten up the dish, balancing the rich flavors.
- Kid-Friendly: The creamy sauce and mild flavors appeal to even the pickiest eaters.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Serve as a build-your-own bowl option for guests.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins from fresh ingredients.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 12g
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
The Street Corn:
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese
For the Rice:
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
- Salt, to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Diced avocado
- Sliced jalapeños
- Additional cotija cheese
- Lime wedges
- Hot sauce
Ingredient Highlights
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth to the chicken seasoning.
- Cotija Cheese: Provides a salty, crumbly texture that complements the creamy street corn.
- Fresh Cilantro: Brightens the dish with a fresh, herbal note.
- Lime Juice: Adds tangy acidity, enhancing all the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and season evenly with smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: Grill the chicken on medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Alternatively, pan-sear the chicken in a hot skillet. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
The Street Corn:
- Cook the Corn: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the corn kernels until slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes.
- Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and chili powder.
- Combine: Toss the cooked corn with the sauce, chopped cilantro, and cotija cheese.
Prepare the Rice:
- Flavor the Rice: Stir lime juice and chopped cilantro into the cooked rice. Season with salt to taste.
Assemble the Bowl:
- Build the Bowl: Start with a base of rice. Add sliced chicken and a generous scoop of street corn. Top with optional garnishes like diced avocado, jalapeños, or additional cheese.
Serve:
- Garnish and Enjoy: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the bowl and serve immediately.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl:
- Family Dinner: Serve as a quick and hearty meal for the entire family.
- Meal Prep: Pack in individual containers for grab-and-go lunches.
- BBQ Side Dish: Pair with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete BBQ spread.
- Taco Night Alternative: Offer as a deconstructed taco bowl option.
- Picnic or Potluck: Serve in disposable bowls for an easy-to-share dish.
- Post-Workout Meal: Enjoy as a balanced, protein-rich meal to refuel.
- Comfort Food: Satisfy cravings with a warm, comforting bowl.
- Dinner Parties: Let guests assemble their own bowls with various topping options.
- With a Soup or Salad: Pair with a light soup or side salad for a balanced meal.
- Kid-Friendly Option: Serve with mild seasoning and extra cheese for the kids.
Additional Tips
- Grill the Corn for Extra Flavor – For that authentic street corn taste, grill or char the corn before cutting off the kernels.
- Use Fresh Chicken – Marinate the chicken in your favorite spices or a zesty citrus marinade for extra tenderness and flavor.
- Add a Creamy Sauce – Top your bowl with a tangy crema made from sour cream, lime juice, and a dash of chili powder to enhance the flavor profile.
- Roast the Vegetables – Roasting bell peppers, onions, and zucchini can bring out a deeper sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken.
- Spice it Up – Add a sprinkle of chili powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper to give the dish a little extra heat.
- Fresh Herbs – Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness that perfectly complements the smoky flavors of the grilled corn and chicken.
- Cheese It Up – Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese over the top of your bowl for an authentic, salty finish.
- Add Avocado – Sliced avocado or a scoop of guacamole brings creaminess to balance out the spicy flavors.
- Include a Pickled Element – Try adding pickled red onions or jalapeños for an acidic kick that contrasts nicely with the richness of the chicken and corn.
- Use Brown Rice or Quinoa – For a healthier twist, swap out white rice for brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and nutrients.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Bowl: Replace chicken with grilled tofu or black beans.
- Cauliflower Rice Bowl: Substitute regular rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha for extra heat.
- Tex-Mex Bowl: Add black beans, pico de gallo, and guacamole for a Tex-Mex twist.
- Shrimp Bowl: Swap chicken for grilled shrimp for a seafood variation.
- Cheesy Delight: Add shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack for extra cheesiness.
- Lettuce Wraps: Serve the ingredients in lettuce cups for a lighter version.
- Avocado Cream Sauce: Blend avocado with lime juice and yogurt for a creamy, tangy drizzle.
- Quinoa Bowl: Use quinoa instead of rice for added protein and texture.
- Chipotle-Inspired: Add a dollop of chipotle sauce for smoky heat.
Special Equipment
- Grill or Grill Pan: For cooking the chicken to perfection.
- Skillet: To char the corn kernels.
- Rice Cooker: For hassle-free, perfectly cooked rice.
- Sharp Knife: For slicing chicken and prepping ingredients.
- Mixing Bowls: For combining sauces and tossing the corn.
- Tongs: To handle and flip chicken on the grill.
FAQ Section
- Can I use canned corn instead of fresh?
Yes, just drain and pat dry before charring in the skillet. - How do I store leftovers?
Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving. - Can I freeze the street corn mixture?
It’s best served fresh, but you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 1 month. - What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat the chicken, rice, and corn separately in the microwave or on the stovetop. - Can I use other types of cheese?
Feta or Parmesan can be used as a substitute for cotija cheese. - Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients are verified gluten-free. - Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the chicken seasoning. - What can I use instead of cilantro?
Try parsley or green onions for a different flavor. - Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and may be juicier. Adjust cooking time as needed. - How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Avoid overcooking and let the chicken rest before slicing.
Conclusion
Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a flavorful and hearty dish that brings together the vibrant taste of Mexican street corn with tender, juicy chicken and fluffy rice. The bowl is loaded with grilled or sautéed chicken, seasoned with smoky spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder. It’s then topped with sweet corn, either roasted or grilled, for that signature smoky, slightly charred flavor.
A creamy, tangy sauce made from mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese ties everything together. Fresh toppings like chopped cilantro, diced jalapeños, and a dusting of chili powder add a bright and zesty kick. Serve it over a bed of rice, and you have a satisfying, well-balanced meal that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
I can’t wait to see how your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!