If you’re looking for a bold, colorful, and satisfying meal that’s easy to whip up, the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is your perfect match. This crave-worthy bowl combines juicy grilled chicken, sweet corn, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice into one irresistible dish that’s inspired by Mexican street food—delivered in bowl form for ultimate convenience.
Ideal for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this hearty rice bowl is nutritious, customizable, and downright delicious.
Ingredients for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
To make this delicious dish, you’ll need a combination of fresh produce, protein, and pantry staples.
Chicken:
-
1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
-
1 tablespoon olive oil
-
1 teaspoon chili powder
-
1 teaspoon paprika
-
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
Juice of 1 lime
Mexican Street Corn (Elote Style):
-
2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
-
1/3 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
-
1/4 cup sour cream
-
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
-
1/4 cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese
-
Juice of 1/2 lime
-
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Rice:
-
2 cups cooked white or brown rice
-
Juice of 1/2 lime
-
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional)
Optional Toppings:
-
Sliced avocado
-
Jalapeño slices
-
Extra cheese
-
Hot sauce or chipotle crema
-
Diced red onion
Required Kitchen Tools
-
Grill pan or skillet
-
Mixing bowls
-
Knife and cutting board
-
Measuring spoons and cups
-
Rice cooker or pot (for cooking rice)
-
Tongs or spatula
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
1: Marinate and Cook the Chicken
In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cumin, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and coat thoroughly. Let it marinate for at least 15–30 minutes (or up to 24 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor).
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5–6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and slightly charred. Let rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips or bite-sized pieces.
2: Prepare the Street Corn Mix
If using fresh corn, grill or sauté until lightly charred. If using frozen or canned corn, sauté in a skillet for a few minutes until warm and slightly golden.
In a bowl, combine the corn with mayo, sour cream, garlic powder, chili powder, lime juice, crumbled cheese, and chopped cilantro. Mix until fully coated and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3: Prepare the Rice
Cook rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and add a squeeze of lime juice and a bit of chopped cilantro if desired.
4: Assemble the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
In individual serving bowls, layer a scoop of rice, followed by sliced chicken, and a generous spoonful of street corn. Top with optional extras like avocado, jalapeños, red onion, or more cheese. Finish with a drizzle of hot sauce or chipotle crema for an extra punch.
Helpful Tips for the Perfect Bowl
-
Grill for flavor: Grilling the chicken and corn enhances the smoky, authentic street-food vibe.
-
Make it spicy or mild: Adjust the chili powder and hot sauce levels based on your heat preference.
-
Swap the base: Not a fan of rice? Try this bowl with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even a bed of lettuce.
-
Make it ahead: All components can be prepped in advance—great for meal prepping lunches throughout the week.
-
Dairy-free option: Use vegan mayo and dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free version of the corn topping.
Approximate Nutritional Value (Per Serving – Serves 4)
-
Calories: ~580
-
Protein: 35g
-
Carbohydrates: 45g
-
Fat: 28g
-
Fiber: 4g
-
Sugars: 6g
-
Sodium: 620mg
Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredient brands and modifications.
Why You’ll Love This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
This dish brings together the best of both worlds: street-style flavor and the convenience of a one-bowl meal. The tangy, creamy street corn pairs beautifully with the smoky, juicy chicken and fluffy lime rice. It’s bold, balanced, and incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to make with pantry staples and fresh ingredients—making it a regular in your weekly rotation.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy family, meal prepping for the week, or just want something more exciting than a plain salad, this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl delivers flavor, texture, and comfort all in one.
Final Thoughts: Try This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Today
Ready to shake up your weeknight dinner routine? The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is the perfect way to enjoy vibrant, Mexican-inspired flavors in a quick and easy format. It’s filling, customizable, and sure to become one of your go-to meals.
Save this recipe, share it with friends, and don’t forget to experiment with your favorite toppings. This dish isn’t just a bowl—it’s a whole experience.