This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a vibrant and satisfying meal that combines juicy grilled chicken, creamy Mexican-style street corn, fluffy rice, and fresh toppings into one delicious dish. It’s a fusion of bold flavors and textures that brings the popular street food right to your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser for so many reasons. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a casual dinner, this bowl offers the perfect mix of protein, veggies, and carbs. The creamy street corn adds a smoky and slightly tangy kick, while the grilled chicken keeps it hearty and satisfying. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free or vegetarian with a few simple swaps.

ingredients

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

Chicken breasts or thighs
Olive oil
Chili powder
Garlic powder
Salt
Cooked white or brown rice
Corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Mayonnaise
Sour cream
Lime juice
Cotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)
Fresh cilantro
Jalapeños (optional)
Red onion (optional)

directions

Marinate the chicken with olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt. Let sit for 15–30 minutes.
Grill or pan-sear the chicken until fully cooked, about 5–6 minutes per side. Let it rest before slicing.
In a bowl, combine corn, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and cotija cheese to make the street corn mix.
Assemble bowls with a base of cooked rice. Top with sliced chicken and a generous scoop of the street corn mixture.
Garnish with chopped cilantro, red onion, and jalapeños if desired. Serve with lime wedges.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: Swap chicken with grilled tofu, tempeh, or black beans.
Dairy-Free: Use vegan mayo and dairy-free cheese.
Low-carb: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
Spicy: Add extra jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Avocado Boost: Top with sliced avocado or guacamole for creaminess.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the rice and chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop. For best results, store toppings like cilantro and lime separately and add fresh when serving.

FAQs

What type of rice works best for this bowl?

White rice, brown rice, or even jasmine rice all work well. You can also use quinoa or cauliflower rice as alternatives.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred it and season lightly to match the flavors.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely. You can prepare all components in advance and assemble bowls throughout the week.

Can I make this bowl ahead of time?

Yes, just store the components separately and combine when ready to eat to keep everything fresh.

What cheese can I use instead of cotija?

Feta cheese makes a great substitute if cotija isn’t available.

Can I use canned corn?

Yes, canned corn works just fine. Just drain it before mixing.

How do I make it spicier?

Add more chili powder, jalapeños, or your favorite hot sauce.

What’s the best way to grill the chicken?

Use a grill pan or outdoor grill, and cook on medium-high heat until fully cooked and nicely charred.

Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

Yes, use plant-based chicken or beans, vegan mayo, and dairy-free cheese.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

It’s best eaten fresh, but you can freeze the chicken and rice. The street corn mixture doesn’t freeze well due to the dairy.

Conclusion

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a perfect weeknight dinner that brings bold, comforting flavors with minimal effort. It’s endlessly adaptable, meal-prep friendly, and sure to become a staple in your rotation. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked on this colorful, crave-worthy bowl.

Let me know if you’d like a printable recipe card or a version tailored to a specific dietary preference!

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl