Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

This post may include affiliate links — learn more here .

Introduction

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a vibrant and flavorful meal that brings together the bold, smoky flavors of Mexican street corn with the satisfying heartiness of chicken and rice. The charred corn is tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing that’s perfectly balanced with the smoky heat of chili powder, creating a unique and irresistible topping. Add to that the juicy, tender chicken and a bed of fluffy rice, and you have a bowl that’s packed with layers of flavor and texture.

This dish holds a special place in my heart as it’s become a go-to for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. The combination of creamy, slightly spicy street corn and savory chicken always hits the spot. The sweet, crunchy corn contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken and comforting rice, making each bite feel like a little celebration of flavors. The sprinkle of cheese and fresh cilantro adds a fresh and herby finish, tying everything together.

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is perfect for when you crave something filling yet fresh and packed with flavor. It’s versatile, satisfying on its own, or can be served alongside a side salad or grilled vegetables for an even more complete meal. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy day or at a leisurely weekend dinner, this bowl is sure to please and leave everyone coming back for more.

Perfect for:

• Casual weeknight dinners
• Mexican-inspired meals
• Healthy but flavorful bowls
• Street food lovers
• Meal prepping

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is sure to become your go-to recipe:

• Bursting with Flavor: The sweet corn, smoky chicken, and creamy dressing create an unforgettable combination of tastes.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and easy steps, this dish is quick enough for a busy weekday but impressive enough for guests.
• Customizable: You can add extra toppings like avocado, cilantro, or jalapeños to make it your own.
• Healthy and Filling: Packed with protein from the chicken, fiber from the corn, and wholesome rice, this bowl offers a satisfying and balanced meal.
• One-Bowl Wonder: Everything you need for a complete meal in one bowl, with minimal cleanup.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 600-650 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cilantro lime rice)
• 2 ears of corn, husked and grilled (or 1 ½ cups frozen corn)
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
• Jalapeño slices (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that’s perfect for grilling or pan-searing.
• Corn: The star of the dish, giving it that signature sweet and smoky flavor.
• Mayonnaise & Lime: The creamy dressing with a tangy kick, inspired by the classic elote topping.
• Cotija Cheese: Adds a salty, crumbly texture that complements the sweet corn.
• Cilantro and Lime: Fresh, zesty garnish that brightens the dish and enhances the flavors.

Step-by-Step

Instructions

Here’s how to make Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Season the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of chili powder for extra flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Once cooked, remove from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.

Prepare the Corn:

3. Grill the Corn: If using fresh corn, grill the ears directly over the flame, turning occasionally, until the kernels are lightly charred (about 8-10 minutes). Alternatively, use frozen corn and sauté it in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil until it becomes golden and crispy.
4. Make the Corn Mixture: Once the corn is cooked, remove the kernels from the cob and place them in a bowl. Stir in mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Rice Bowls:

5. Build the Bowl: Divide the cooked rice between four bowls. Top each with a generous serving of the corn mixture, sliced chicken, and a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese.
6. Garnish: Finish with fresh cilantro and jalapeño slices (if desired), and serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing.

How to Serve

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl can be served in several ways to elevate the dining experience:

• As a Family-Style Bowl: Serve everything in one large bowl and allow everyone to build their own portion.
• With Extra Toppings: Add diced avocado, pickled onions, or a drizzle of hot sauce for added flavor and texture.
• With Side Dishes: Pair with a light salad, like a simple cucumber and tomato salad, or serve with a side of chips for a complete meal.
• In Wraps: Use the same ingredients to create a delicious wrap in a tortilla for an on-the-go option.

Additional Tips

For the best Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, follow these tips:

• Use Fresh Corn for Best Flavor: If available, fresh corn adds a sweet and smoky flavor that enhances the dish.
• Grill the Chicken: Grilling the chicken adds a smoky char that pairs perfectly with the grilled corn.
• Customize the Heat Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper or add more chili powder depending on your spice preference.
• Use a Hot Grill Pan: For the juiciest grilled chicken, ensure your grill pan is hot enough to sear the chicken quickly without drying it out.
• Meal Prep Tip: Make extra rice and chicken to have ready for quick assembly during the week.

Recipe Variations

Here are 10 variations to try with your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl:

1. Spicy Chicken: Marinate the chicken in a spicy adobo sauce or hot sauce before grilling.
2. Shrimp Street Corn Bowl: Substitute grilled shrimp for chicken for a seafood twist.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Add grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice: Use cilantro lime rice instead of plain rice for an extra burst of flavor.
5. Mexican Street Corn Sauce: Add sour cream or Greek yogurt to the corn mixture for a creamier texture.
6. Sweet and Spicy Variation: Drizzle the bowl with a honey-lime dressing for a sweet and spicy contrast.
7. Taco-Inspired Bowl: Top with salsa, guacamole, and crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy texture.
8. Pineapple and Corn: Add grilled pineapple chunks to the corn mixture for a sweet and savory combination.
9. Vegan Option: Use plant-based chicken or tofu and dairy-free mayo to make the dish vegan-friendly.
10. Bowl with Rice and Quinoa: Mix rice and quinoa together for a higher protein option.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: While the corn and rice can be frozen, it’s best to store the chicken and corn separately to preserve their texture. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
• Storage: Leftover bowls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The rice and corn may get slightly dry upon reheating, so add a bit of lime juice or a splash of water when warming.

Special Equipment

Here are some items that will help you prepare the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl:

1. Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill: Essential for perfectly grilled chicken and corn.
2. Sharp Knife: For slicing the chicken and removing the corn kernels from the cob.
3. Cutting Board: A sturdy board for prepping your ingredients.
4. Tongs: To easily flip the chicken and corn while grilling.
5. Mixing Bowls: For tossing the corn with mayo and seasonings.
6. Measuring Spoons: For precise seasoning, especially when making the dressing.
7. Rice Cooker: Makes preparing rice a breeze, especially when making large batches.
8. Small Whisk: For mixing the mayo dressing until smooth.
9. Grater: For crumbling cotija cheese to sprinkle over the bowls.
10. Serving Bowls: To serve the completed bowls in a presentable way.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?
   Yes, frozen corn works great. Just sauté it in a pan until golden and slightly crispy.
2. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
   Absolutely! Brown rice adds more fiber and a nuttier flavor, making it a great option for a healthier version of the bowl.
3. What can I use instead of cotija cheese?
   If you can’t find cotija cheese, you can substitute with feta or Parmesan for a similar salty, crumbly texture.
4. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the corn dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
5. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Yes! You can substitute grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu for the chicken to make it a vegetarian meal.
6. Is this dish kid-friendly?
   It’s a great option for kids, especially if you adjust the spice level and serve it with a side of tortilla chips.
7. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
   You can prepare the rice, corn, and chicken ahead of time. Simply reheat everything when ready to assemble the bowls.
8. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Yes! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so just make sure to use a gluten-free mayo if necessary.
9. How do I make this dish spicier?
   Add more cayenne pepper, jalapeños, or a drizzle of hot sauce to kick up the heat level.

Conclusion

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a vibrant and satisfying dish that brings together the best of savory, smoky, and tangy flavors in every bite. The tender, juicy chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy, slightly charred street corn, offering a delightful contrast of textures. The seasoned rice serves as the ideal base, complementing the boldness of the toppings and creating a well-rounded meal.

What makes this bowl so irresistible is its balance of flavors—from the zesty lime and cilantro to the smoky paprika and cheese—each component elevates the dish to new heights. Whether you’re enjoying it for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty lunch, the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a deliciously satisfying choice that will leave you craving more. Don’t forget to customize it with your favorite toppings or heat level to suit your taste! Enjoy this fiesta of flavors and feel free to share your creations with me on social media—I’d love to see how you make this dish your own!x