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If you love bold flavors and wholesome ingredients, this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe is a must-try. Combining smoky grilled chicken, creamy Mexican street corn, and perfectly seasoned rice, this dish brings together sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors in a hearty one-bowl meal.
This recipe is perfect for meal prep, quick dinners, or a fresh alternative to traditional rice bowls. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a crowd, this bowl delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort.
What is a Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?
A Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a fusion of Mexican street corn (elote) and a high-protein chicken and rice bowl. Elote is a popular street food featuring grilled corn coated in a creamy, zesty sauce, often finished with crumbled cotija cheese and chili powder. This recipe takes those classic flavors and pairs them with juicy grilled chicken and flavorful cilantro-lime rice for a balanced, satisfying meal.
In addition to its bold flavors, this bowl is also packed with nutrients. Corn is a fiber-rich grain that provides essential vitamins and antioxidants. If you want to learn more about its health benefits, check out this health guide on corn.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Street Corn Mixture:
- 2 cups grilled corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1 tbsp chopped cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
If you don’t have cotija cheese, you can use feta cheese as a substitute. Read more about their differences in this Cotija vs. Feta guide.
For the Cilantro-Lime Rice:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Black beans for added protein
- Avocado slices for creaminess
- Pickled jalapeños for spice
- Tortilla strips for crunch
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Marinate & Cook the Chicken
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken evenly with the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for maximum flavor).
- Grill over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
2. Prepare the Street Corn Mixture
- If using fresh corn, grill until slightly charred, then remove the kernels.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, smoked paprika, cotija cheese, lime juice, and cilantro.
- Stir in the grilled corn kernels until evenly coated.
3. Cook the Cilantro-Lime Rice
- In a pan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in cooked rice, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
- Season with salt to taste.
4. Assemble the Bowl
- Begin with a base of cilantro-lime rice.
- Layer sliced grilled chicken on top.
- Spoon over the street corn mixture.
- Garnish with avocado slices, jalapeños, black beans, and tortilla strips.
- Serve with extra lime wedges for added flavor.
Customizations & Variations
Make It Low-Carb:
- Swap rice for cauliflower rice or shredded lettuce.
Make It Vegetarian:
- Replace chicken with grilled tofu or roasted chickpeas.
Make It Spicier:
- Add extra chili powder, hot sauce, or chipotle peppers to the marinade.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture.
- Meal Prep Hack: Store ingredients separately and assemble fresh for each meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?
Yes! While fresh corn provides the best texture and flavor, canned corn can be a quick and convenient substitute. Just drain it well and lightly sauté or grill it to enhance the smoky taste.
2. What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal because they stay juicy and tender, but chicken breasts work well too. You can also use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
3. How can I make this bowl low-carb?
Swap the rice for cauliflower rice or a base of shredded lettuce. You can also reduce the amount of corn and use extra veggies for more fiber and nutrients.
4. What is the best rice to use for this bowl?
Jasmine rice or cilantro-lime rice works best for flavor, but brown rice or quinoa are great for a healthier twist.
5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute vegan mayo and dairy-free sour cream for the street corn mixture. Instead of cotija cheese, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free feta alternative.
6. How do I add more protein to this meal?
You can increase protein by adding black beans, a fried egg, or even substituting grilled shrimp or steak for the chicken.
7. What are some good topping ideas?
Some great toppings include:
- Avocado slices for creaminess
- Pickled jalapeños for heat
- Tortilla strips for crunch
- Extra lime wedges for brightness
8. Can I prepare this bowl ahead of time?
Yes! Store the chicken, rice, and street corn mixture separately in airtight containers. Assemble just before serving to keep the textures fresh.
9. How should I store and reheat leftovers?
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat chicken and rice in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.
- The street corn mixture is best added fresh.
10. Can I freeze this meal?
You can freeze grilled chicken and cooked rice, but the street corn mixture should be made fresh for the best taste and texture.
Final Thoughts
This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe delivers an incredible mix of sweet, smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors in one dish. Whether you’re looking for an easy meal prep option or a quick dinner idea, this bowl is sure to impress.
If you enjoy hearty and flavorful chicken dishes, you might also love these Jalapeño Popper Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas, which offer a spicy, cheesy twist on a Mexican classic. For those who enjoy Tex-Mex flavors with a lighter touch, try this Garlic Steak Bites and Potatoes for another protein-packed meal.
Try it out, experiment with different toppings, and make it your own. Enjoy a restaurant-quality meal made right in your kitchen.