Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe

There's something irresistible about the combination of smoky grilled chicken, creamy street corn, and fluffy rice. This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl brings all the flavors of a summer barbecue into one satisfying, family-friendly dish.

I first created this recipe after craving elote (Mexican street corn) but wanting something heartier for dinner. By adding tender chicken, seasoned rice, and a tangy sauce, this dish quickly became a weeknight favorite. Let’s dive in and discover why this rice bowl deserves a spot on your menu!

Why You'll Love This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Get ready to fall in love with a bowl that's bursting with vibrant flavors, comforting textures, and pure deliciousness. Whether you're cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe will have you coming back for seconds.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you can have dinner ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Secondly, the flavor combination is unbeatable. Smoky, spicy chicken pairs beautifully with the sweet and creamy street corn, all nestled on a bed of rice that soaks up every bit of the delicious juices.

Another reason to love this recipe? It’s customizable! Use your favorite toppings, swap out proteins, or even make it vegetarian. It's a dish that adapts beautifully to your tastes and pantry staples.

Finally, this recipe is great for meal prep. Prepare everything ahead of time and assemble the bowls when you're ready to eat—perfect for packing lunches or quick reheats.

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this bowl so special.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl lies in its fresh, flavorful ingredients. Each component works together to create a perfectly balanced meal.

• Chicken Thighs or Breasts: I love using chicken thighs because they stay juicy and tender, but chicken breasts work well too. A smoky spice rub gives the chicken its signature flavor.
• Street Corn Mixture: Made with sweet corn, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime juice, and chili powder, this creamy topping is the star of the dish. For extra flavor, grill the corn first!
• Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice makes a great base, but feel free to use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist. Cooking the rice in chicken broth adds an extra layer of flavor.
• Spices: A blend of chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cumin brings a bold, smoky taste to the chicken and corn.
• Fresh Toppings: Cilantro, diced avocado, and a drizzle of lime crema take these bowls to the next level.
• Lime Crema: This easy sauce is made with sour cream, lime juice, and a touch of garlic powder, adding a zesty kick to every bite.

You'll also need a large skillet or grill pan to cook the chicken and corn to perfection.

How To Make This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Creating these Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls is a simple process that comes together in no time. Here's how to make it happen:

1. Cook the Rice
   Start by cooking your rice according to the package instructions. For extra flavor, substitute water with chicken broth. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken
   Season your chicken thighs or breasts generously with a spice blend of chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of olive oil, and cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until fully cooked and charred. Remove from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
3. Make the Street Corn
   In the same skillet, add a little more oil and sauté the corn kernels until slightly charred. Transfer to a bowl and mix with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime juice, and a pinch of chili powder.
4. Assemble the Lime Crema
   In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, fresh lime juice, and garlic powder until smooth. Add a splash of water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
5. Assemble the Bowls
   Divide the cooked rice among bowls. Top with slices of chicken, a generous scoop of street corn, and your favorite toppings like diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and a drizzle of lime crema.

With everything prepared, you’ll have a vibrant, flavorful bowl that looks just as good as it tastes.

Storage Options

This recipe is perfect for leftovers or meal prep! Here’s how to store each component:

• Chicken: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
• Street Corn Mixture: Keep in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir before serving.
• Rice: Store separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth to keep it fluffy.
• Lime Crema: Keep in a small jar or container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

When reheating, assemble the bowls fresh for the best results!

Variations and Substitutions

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to switch it up:

• Make it Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for black beans, grilled tofu, or sautéed mushrooms for a plant-based version.
• Change the Base: Replace rice with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even shredded lettuce for a lighter option.
• Add Heat: Sprinkle in diced jalapeños or drizzle with hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Try Different Proteins: Use shrimp, steak, or even grilled salmon instead of chicken.
• Swap the Cheese: If cotija isn’t available, try feta or Parmesan as a substitute.

The beauty of this dish is that you can tailor it to your preferences while still enjoying those bold, satisfying flavors.

Get ready to enjoy the irresistible flavors of this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. Whether you're making it for a quick weeknight dinner or prepping meals for the week, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it tonight and bring a little street food magic to your table!

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