Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe Made Simple

A Flavor-Packed, Easy-to-Make Meal

If you’re looking for a dish that combines bold flavors, creamy textures, and hearty ingredients, this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is the perfect choice. Inspired by Mexican street corn (elote), this recipe brings together grilled chicken, charred corn, creamy sauce, and zesty spices over a bed of fluffy rice. It’s an easy, one-bowl meal that’s satisfying and packed with flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal comes together in under 45 minutes.
• Bold and Creamy Flavors: The combination of tangy lime, smoky spices, and creamy sauce makes every bite irresistible.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, protein, or toppings to suit your preferences.
• Balanced Meal: This bowl includes protein, carbs, and veggies, making it a well-rounded dish.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Juice of 1 lime

For the Street Corn Topping:

• 2 ears of corn (or 1 ½ cups frozen or canned corn)
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• Juice of ½ lime
• ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

For the Rice Bowl:

• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cilantro-lime rice)
• 1 avocado, sliced
• ¼ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons chopped red onion
• Extra lime wedges for serving

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, mix chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
2. Rub the seasoning onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Remove from heat, squeeze lime juice over the chicken, and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

2. Make the Street Corn Topping

1. If using fresh corn, grill or pan-sear the corn until slightly charred, then cut the kernels off the cob.
2. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, lime juice, cotija cheese, and cilantro.
3. Stir in the corn kernels and mix until well coated.

3. Assemble the Rice Bowls

1. Divide the cooked rice between serving bowls.
2. Top with sliced chicken, street corn mixture, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
3. Garnish with extra cilantro, cotija cheese, and lime wedges.

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Variations

• Swap the Protein: Try shrimp, tofu, or black beans instead of chicken.
• Make it Spicier: Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
• Use a Different Cheese: Queso fresco or shredded Mexican cheese blend works well.
• Grain Options: Replace rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm the chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop, then add fresh toppings before serving.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Cook the chicken and street corn topping in advance for quick assembly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Substitute the cotija cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use a vegan mayonnaise or plain dairy-free yogurt.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Shred rotisserie chicken and toss it with the seasoning for a quick version of this dish.

What type of rice works best?

Cilantro-lime rice adds extra flavor, but any type of rice (white, brown, or jasmine) works well.

Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a smoky flavor that enhances the dish even more.

How do I make this meal lower in carbs?

Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice and reduce the amount of corn.

What other toppings can I add?

Try black beans, shredded lettuce, diced bell peppers, or a drizzle of chipotle sauce.

Is frozen corn okay to use?

Yes, just thaw and char it in a pan for the best texture.

Can I meal prep this for the week?

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

How can I make it kid-friendly?

Reduce the spice level and serve the toppings separately so kids can build their own bowls.

What can I serve with this dish?

Pair it with tortilla chips, a side salad, or a light soup for a complete meal.

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Conclusion

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a delicious, easy-to-make meal that brings together smoky, creamy, and zesty flavors in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this dish is sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

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