Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl combines tender, seasoned chicken with the tangy flavors of classic Mexican street corn, all served over a bed of rice. It’s a vibrant, flavor-packed dish perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a quick and satisfying lunch. Whether you’re a fan of bold spices or crave creamy, zesty toppings, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.

What Is a Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?

A Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl takes inspiration from elote, the popular Mexican street corn, and transforms it into a hearty, wholesome meal. Juicy chicken is seasoned with smoky spices, paired with a creamy corn topping, and served over rice. It’s a delightful blend of textures and flavors that’s as customizable as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Simple steps and readily available ingredients make it beginner-friendly.
• Versatile: Use your choice of rice or chicken cut, or adjust the toppings to suit your preferences.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Assemble bowls ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners.
• Bursting with Flavor: From smoky spices to tangy lime and creamy toppings, this bowl has it all.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Street Corn Mixture:

• 1½ cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned; drained)
• ¼ cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo for a dairy-free option)
• ¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
• ¼ cup cotija or feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)

For Serving:

• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cilantro lime rice)
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for squeezing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Toss diced chicken with chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes. Set aside.

Making the Street Corn Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, combine corn, mayonnaise, sour cream, cotija cheese, lime juice, and smoked paprika (if using).
2. Mix well until evenly coated. Adjust seasonings to taste.

Assembling the Bowls

1. Divide cooked rice evenly among serving bowls.
2. Top each bowl with the cooked chicken and a generous scoop of the street corn mixture.
3. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and chopped cilantro.
4. Serve with extra lime wedges for a zesty squeeze of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this dish with tortilla chips or a side of guacamole for a Tex-Mex flair.
• Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
• Serve with a refreshing drink like a lime agua fresca or iced tea.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the rice, chicken, and street corn mixture separate for easier reheating and assembly.

Freezing Instructions

• The seasoned chicken and cooked rice freeze well for up to 2 months.
• Avoid freezing the street corn mixture, as it may lose its creamy texture.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian: Swap chicken for roasted chickpeas or black beans.
• Low-Carb: Replace rice with cauliflower rice or a bed of greens.
• Spicier Version: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the street corn mixture.
• Cheese Options: Use queso fresco or Parmesan if cotija or feta aren’t available.

FAQs

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use vegan mayo and omit the cheese, or substitute with a dairy-free alternative.

What type of rice works best?
Cilantro lime rice complements the flavors beautifully, but plain white or brown rice works just as well.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and work perfectly in this recipe.

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a satisfying meal that’s packed with bold flavors and vibrant colors. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it’s a recipe you’ll want to add to your regular rotation. Try it today and experience the perfect balance of smoky, creamy, and zesty in every bite!

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