A Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a delicious, flavor-packed dish inspired by Mexican street corn (elote). This bowl combines juicy, seasoned chicken, creamy corn, and fluffy rice, all topped with a zesty sauce and fresh garnishes. It’s the perfect balance of smoky, creamy, and tangy flavors in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Packed with Flavor – A mix of smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors makes each bite exciting.
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps mean you can whip this up in no time.
Customizable – Adjust the toppings and seasonings to your preference.
Great for Meal Prep – Stores well and makes an excellent next-day meal.
Family-Friendly – A dish that both kids and adults will enjoy.

Ingredients

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

Chicken breast or thighs
Cooked rice (white, brown, or cilantro-lime)
Corn (grilled, canned, or frozen)
Mayonnaise or Mexican crema
Cotija cheese or feta cheese
Lime juice
Chili powder
Garlic powder
Paprika
Olive oil
Fresh cilantro
Green onions (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken – Season the chicken with chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear in a pan over medium-high heat until cooked through. Let it rest, then slice or dice.
Cook the Corn – If using fresh corn, grill it until slightly charred. If using canned or frozen, sauté in a pan until golden. Mix with mayonnaise, lime juice, and crumbled cheese.
Assemble the Bowl – Start with a bed of rice, then top with sliced chicken and street corn mixture.
Garnish and Serve – Sprinkle with extra cheese, fresh cilantro, and green onions. Serve with lime wedges for extra zest.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Make It Spicier – Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Use Different Protein – Swap chicken for shrimp, steak, or tofu.
Low-Carb Option – Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
Extra Creamy – Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing – Store the chicken and corn mixture separately in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.
Reheating – Microwave in 30-second intervals or warm in a skillet over medium heat.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast instead of Cotija cheese and swap mayonnaise for a plant-based alternative.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut to save time.

What type of rice works best?

Cilantro-lime rice, brown rice, or even quinoa are excellent choices.

Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing?

Absolutely! Grilling the chicken adds a delicious smoky flavor.

What’s the best way to char the corn?

Grilling fresh corn or broiling canned corn in the oven can give it a nice char.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and opt for brown rice or cauliflower rice.

Is this meal good for meal prep?

Yes! Store ingredients separately and assemble fresh when ready to eat.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Swap the chicken for grilled tofu or black beans for a protein-packed vegetarian version.

What toppings go well with this dish?

Try avocado, salsa, pickled onions, or a drizzle of chipotle mayo for extra flavor.

Can I serve this as a taco filling?

Yes, the chicken and street corn mixture works great as a taco or burrito filling.

Conclusion

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together the best of Mexican-inspired flavors in an easy-to-make meal. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or prepping it for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy with its smoky, creamy, and tangy goodness. Give it a try and customize it to make it your own!