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Craving bold flavors in a single, satisfying dish? This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl brings together tender, smoky-seasoned chicken, charred sweet corn, and fluffy rice, all topped with a creamy, zesty sauce. Inspired by Mexican street corn (Elote), this bowl is the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal-prep favorite, this dish delivers big on taste with minimal effort. Plus, it’s easy to customize—add avocado, black beans, or extra cotija cheese to make it your own. Ready to dig in? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
If you love bold flavors and effortless meals, this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is about to become a favorite. It’s packed with smoky, zesty, and creamy goodness—all in one easy-to-make dish. Here’s why you’ll love it:
✅ Big on Flavor – Juicy grilled chicken, charred sweet corn, and a creamy, tangy sauce bring a perfect balance of spice and zest.
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
✅ Customizable – Swap the protein, add extra toppings like black beans, avocado, or jalapeños, or adjust the spice level to your taste.
✅ Great for Meal Prep – Make a batch and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
✅ Nutritious & Satisfying – A wholesome balance of lean protein, fiber-rich corn, and hearty rice keeps you full and energized.
This bowl brings the comforting essence of Mexican street corn (Elote) and combines it with juicy chicken and rice for a meal that’s both indulgent and nourishing. One bite, and you’ll see why it’s a keeper!
Ingredients Needed to Prepare Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients to bring this dish to life. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of smoky, creamy, and zesty flavors.
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for added tenderness)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a deep, smoky flavor)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of ½ lime (for a zesty kick)
For the Street Corn Topping:
- 1 ½ cups corn kernels (use fresh, frozen, or drained canned corn)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)¼ cup sour cream (or use Greek yogurt for a lower-calorie choice)
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of ½ lime
For the Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked rice (choose white, brown, or cilantro-lime rice)
- ½ cup black beans (optional, for extra protein and fiber)
- 1 avocado, sliced (for creaminess)
- Extra cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
Pro Tips:
✔️ Char the corn – Sauté it in a dry pan or grill it for that classic street corn flavor.
✔️ Marinate the chicken – Let it sit for at least 15 minutes (or overnight) for deeper flavor.
✔️ Adjust the spice level – Add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat or use mild chili powder if you prefer it mild.
With these fresh and flavorful ingredients, you’re all set to create a deliciously satisfying meal. Let’s get cooking!
If you love bold flavors and effortless meals, this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a must-try. Similarly, our Chicken Salad with Apples offers a refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad, combining crisp apples with tender chicken for a delightful crunch.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Best Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Ready to create the most delicious Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl? Follow these simple, straightforward steps, and you’ll have a flavorful, satisfying meal in no time.
1. Season and Cook the Chicken:
- Season the chicken: Start by mixing together chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice blend all over the boneless, skinless chicken breasts. The spices will give the chicken a smoky, zesty kick!
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, making sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken.
- Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and squeeze lime juice over the top.Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
2. Prepare the Street Corn Topping:
- Char the corn: In the same skillet, toss the corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned) and cook them over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until they’re slightly charred. The caramelization adds a deep, smoky flavor that makes this dish stand out.
- Mix the creamy sauce: In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt. Stir everything together until smooth. Add the cotija cheese, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice, then mix again until well incorporated. This creamy topping is the heart of the dish!
For comprehensive information on these methods and safe food handling practices, refer to the USDA’s guidelines on basting, brining, and marinating poultry.
3. Assemble the Bowl:
- Start with the rice: Spoon a generous portion of cooked rice into each bowl. You can use plain white rice, brown rice, or even cilantro-lime rice for an added flavor boost.
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- Add the chicken: Layer the sliced grilled chicken on top of the rice.
- Top with street corn: Spoon the creamy street corn mixture over the chicken, spreading it evenly to make sure every bite gets that smoky, creamy goodness.
- Garnish: Add a handful of black beans (optional), along with sliced avocado for extra creaminess. Finish with a sprinkle of cilantro and a few lime wedges for a fresh, zesty touch.
4. Enjoy Your Delicious Creation!
Now, all that’s left is to dig in and enjoy the delicious, layered flavors in each bite. From the smoky chicken to the creamy street corn, this bowl is bursting with flavor!
Pro Tips:
- For an extra crunch, sprinkle some crispy tortilla strips on top.
- Spice things up with a drizzle of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce if you like a little more heat.
- If you’re short on time, you can also meal prep this dish by cooking the chicken and rice in advance and assembling the bowls later in the week.
This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a perfect balance of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Ready to serve it up? Enjoy every bite!
What to Pair with the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Looking for the perfect sides to complement your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl? While this bowl is already packed with flavor, a few well-chosen sides can elevate the meal even further. Here are some great options:
1. Fresh Green Salad:
A light, refreshing green salad is the perfect contrast to the richness of the street corn and chicken. Try a mix of arugula, spinach, and baby kale with a simple vinaigrette, or toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onions for extra crunch. A light citrus dressing will keep the flavors bright and fresh.
2. Grilled Veggies:
Grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus pair wonderfully with the smoky chicken. Toss the veggies with a bit of olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs before grilling for added flavor. The charred, tender vegetables will add both texture and color to your meal.
3. Guacamole and Chips:
A side of guacamole with crunchy tortilla chips is always a winner. The creamy avocado and lime juice from the guac will pair perfectly with the bold flavors of the rice bowl. For a twist, mix in some pico de gallo or finely chopped cilantro to add more flavor layers.
4. Mexican Street Corn (Elote):
Why not double down on the street corn flavor? Mexican street corn (Elote) is a natural side dish for this recipe. Grill the corn and top it with the same creamy sauce from the rice bowl for a delicious, complementary addition.
5. Black Bean Salsa:
A vibrant black bean salsa made with tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice can be served on the side or spooned over the bowl itself. It adds a fresh, tangy flavor with a slight crunch that pairs beautifully with the chicken and rice.
6. Fresh Fruit Salad:
For a light and refreshing finish, consider serving a fresh fruit salad. Think pineapple, mango, and watermelon for a tropical twist, or mix in strawberries, kiwi, and orange slices for a colorful and sweet complement to your savory meal.
For a complete meal, consider serving the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl alongside our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, combining the zest of street corn with the rich flavors of Parmesan
Pro Tip:
To turn your meal into a complete feast, consider adding a side of cilantro-lime rice for extra flavor and texture. The bright cilantro and lime will tie everything together perfectly!
With these delicious side options, your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl will shine even brighter. Serve up your meal with a few of these tasty sides, and you’ve got yourself a well-rounded, satisfying dinner!
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve just created the perfect Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl—a delicious, balanced meal that combines smoky chicken, creamy street corn, and fresh toppings all in one bowl. This dish is a wonderful choice for family dinners, meal prep, or even impressing guests with something a little outside the ordinary.
Not only is this recipe bursting with flavor, but it’s also highly customizable. You can swap out ingredients like the protein, rice, or even add in extra toppings based on what you have on hand or your preferences. Whether you stick to the original recipe or make it your own, this bowl is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
If you love bold flavors and effortless meals, this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a must-try. For another comforting dish that combines rich flavors with simplicity, check out our Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup.
explore our delicious Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup recipe
street corn chicken rice bowl
Ingredients
Ingredients for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
For the Street Corn:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for grilling or sautéing the corn
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ¼ cup cotija cheese crumbled (or feta cheese as a substitute)
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Rice:
- 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
- 1 tablespoon butter optional, for extra flavor
- Salt to taste
- For Topping Optional:
- Fresh cilantro chopped
- Lime wedges
- This ingredient list combines bold flavors and creamy textures perfect for creating the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl!
Instructions
Instructions for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Make the Street Corn:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the corn and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the corn is slightly charred.
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the corn is cooked, stir in the mayo mixture and sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese on top. Mix well and remove from heat.
Cook the Rice:
- Cook the rice according to package instructions (using either white or brown rice).
- Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the butter (if using) and a pinch of salt.
Assemble the Bowl:
- In each bowl, layer the rice as the base.
- Top with the street corn mixture, sliced chicken, and any additional toppings (such as chopped cilantro and lime wedges).
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl!
- This easy-to-follow recipe brings together bold flavors and creamy textures, making it a perfect meal for any time of day!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions you may have when making the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. Let’s clear up any doubts so you can cook with confidence!
1. Is frozen corn a good alternative to fresh corn?
Yes! Frozen corn works perfectly in this recipe, and it’s a great time-saver. Just make sure to thaw it before cooking, and you’ll still get that delicious, sweet corn flavor.
2. Can I replace the chicken with a different protein?
Absolutely! You can swap out the grilled chicken for grilled shrimp, steak, or even a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. The bold flavors of the street corn and seasonings will still shine through, no matter which protein you choose.
3. How do I make the street corn sauce if I don’t have cotija cheese?
If you can’t find cotija cheese, you can use feta cheese as a substitute. It will still give you a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor. For the sauce, use sour cream and mayonnaise as a base, and add a squeeze of lime for that tangy kick.
4. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely, you can prepare the components in advance! Cook the chicken, rice, and corn sauce, then store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply assemble everything and enjoy a quick, fresh meal.
5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make the dish dairy-free, simply omit the cotija cheese and swap the sour cream and mayo for dairy-free alternatives. There are plenty of creamy, plant-based options available that will still give you that rich texture.