Delicious Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

A Flavorful and Satisfying Meal

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl combines juicy, seasoned chicken with the smoky-sweet flavors of Mexican street corn, all served over a bed of fluffy rice. With a creamy, tangy sauce and fresh garnishes, this dish is a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it an easy and delicious weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Flavor: A mix of smoky, creamy, tangy, and spicy elements.
• Easy to Make: Comes together in under 45 minutes.
• Customizable: Adjust spice levels, swap proteins, or add extra veggies.
• Great for Meal Prep: Perfect for leftovers and reheating.

Ingredients

Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lime juice

Street Corn Topping

• 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup cotija cheese (or feta)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

Rice Base

• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Garnishes

• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
• Extra cotija cheese
• Chopped cilantro
• Lime wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

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

Step 2: Make the Street Corn Topping

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add corn, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly charred.
2. Transfer corn to a bowl and mix with mayonnaise, sour cream, cotija cheese, lime juice, and hot sauce (if using). Stir in chopped cilantro.

Step 3: Prepare the Rice

1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. Stir in butter, salt, and garlic powder for extra flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

1. Divide rice between bowls.
2. Top with sliced chicken and street corn mixture.
3. Garnish with avocado slices, jalapeño, extra cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges.

Variations

• Swap the Protein: Use grilled shrimp, tofu, or steak instead of chicken.
• Make It Spicier: Add extra hot sauce or diced jalapeños.
• Low-Carb Version: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
• Dairy-Free: Swap mayo and sour cream for dairy-free alternatives, and skip the cheese.

Servings and Timing

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

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm chicken and rice in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Reheat the corn topping separately or enjoy it cold.
• Freezing: Store cooked chicken and rice separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken saves time and still works well with the seasonings.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cook the chicken, rice, and street corn separately, then assemble when ready to eat.

What’s the best way to char the corn?

If using fresh corn, grill it on high heat for a smoky flavor. For frozen or canned corn, use a dry skillet over high heat.

Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, just thaw and drain it first. Cook it in a skillet to remove excess moisture.

What’s a good substitute for cotija cheese?

Feta cheese is a great alternative with a similar crumbly texture and salty taste.

How do I make this vegetarian?

Use grilled tofu or black beans instead of chicken.

What kind of rice works best?

White rice, brown rice, or even cilantro-lime rice all work well.

How can I add more vegetables?

Mix in diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or shredded lettuce for extra freshness.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Just check that all ingredients (especially seasonings) are gluten-free.

What other sauces go well with this bowl?

Try drizzling with chipotle mayo, avocado crema, or a squeeze of extra lime juice.

Conclusion

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a simple yet flavor-packed dish that brings the bold, smoky, and creamy flavors of Mexican street corn into a hearty, satisfying meal. Whether you’re meal-prepping, feeding a family, or looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner, this recipe is a winner. Try it today and enjoy a vibrant and delicious twist on classic street food flavors!

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