The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the best of Mexican-inspired street food with the comfort of a hearty rice bowl. Juicy grilled chicken, creamy and tangy street corn, and fluffy rice come together to create a balanced and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect if you’re craving bold, savory flavors with a touch of creaminess and spice. It’s easy to make, customizable, and packed with protein, making it both filling and nutritious. The combination of textures from the juicy chicken, crunchy corn, and creamy sauce will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts or thighs, grilled or pan-seared
Cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower)
Corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
Mayonnaise
Cotija cheese or feta
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime juice
Chili powder or Tajín seasoning
Garlic powder
Olive oil
Salt and pepper

Directions

Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chili powder. Grill or pan-sear until cooked through, then let it rest before slicing.
Cook the corn: Sauté the corn kernels in a pan with a little olive oil until they’re slightly charred.
Make the street corn mixture: In a bowl, combine the cooked corn, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime juice, chili powder, and cilantro. Mix well.
Assemble the bowl: Place cooked rice at the bottom of the bowl. Add sliced chicken on top, then generously spoon the street corn mixture over everything.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with extra cheese, a dash of chili powder, and fresh cilantro for extra flavor. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with grilled tofu or black beans.
Spicier Version: Add diced jalapeños or use a spicier chili powder.
Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute cauliflower rice for traditional rice.
Extra Creamy: Add sour cream to the street corn mixture for an extra creamy texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warm. To maintain texture, reheat the chicken and corn separately from the rice if possible.

FAQs

How do I keep the chicken juicy?

Marinate the chicken beforehand and avoid overcooking it by using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, just thaw and sauté it for the best flavor.

What type of rice works best for this recipe?

White rice, brown rice, or even cilantro lime rice pairs well with the flavors.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but assemble just before serving to keep the flavors fresh.

Is there a dairy-free alternative to Cotija cheese?

You can use dairy-free feta or skip the cheese altogether.

Can I grill the corn instead of sautéing it?

Absolutely, grilling the corn adds a smokier flavor.

What’s a good substitute for mayonnaise?

Greek yogurt works well as a healthier alternative.

How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Add toppings like diced avocado, tomatoes, or sautéed bell peppers.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure all seasonings and ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I meal-prep this recipe?

Yes, just store the components separately and assemble when ready to eat.

Conclusion

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is an easy-to-make, flavor-packed meal perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With its bold flavors, customizable options, and satisfying ingredients, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.