Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe Made Simple

A Flavor-Packed, Easy Meal for Any Night

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl combines the irresistible flavors of Mexican street corn with tender, seasoned chicken and fluffy rice for a satisfying and simple meal. Bursting with smoky, creamy, and tangy flavors, this dish offers the perfect balance of spice, crunch, and creaminess. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal-prep favorite, this recipe is an easy way to bring bold flavors to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make – A straightforward recipe that comes together in under 40 minutes.
• Incredibly flavorful – Combines smoky, creamy, and tangy flavors with tender chicken.
• Versatile – Customize with different proteins, grains, or toppings.
• Great for meal prep – Stores well and makes for delicious leftovers.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

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

For the Street Corn:

• 2 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

For the Rice Bowl:

• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cilantro-lime rice)
• 1 avocado, sliced
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
• Extra lime wedges for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, mix chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
4. Remove from heat, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice or dice.

Step 2: Prepare the Street Corn

1. If using fresh corn, grill or sauté it in a dry pan over medium-high heat for a few minutes until lightly charred. If using canned or frozen, drain and sauté.
2. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, smoked paprika, and lime juice.
3. Add the corn, cotija cheese, and cilantro. Stir until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Rice Bowls

1. Divide cooked rice between serving bowls.
2. Top each bowl with sliced chicken, street corn mixture, avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeño (if using).
3. Garnish with extra cotija cheese, cilantro, and a lime wedge.

Variations

• Protein Swap – Try grilled shrimp, steak, or black beans for a vegetarian option.
• Grain Alternatives – Substitute quinoa, cauliflower rice, or farro.
• Spice Level – Add hot sauce, extra jalapeños, or a sprinkle of cayenne for more heat.
• Cheese Options – Use feta, queso fresco, or shredded cheddar instead of cotija.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Reheat chicken and rice separately in the microwave or stovetop until warm.
• Freeze cooked chicken and rice for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of chili powder, add cayenne, or drizzle with hot sauce.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Yes, simply season and warm the shredded rotisserie chicken before adding it to the bowls.

What can I substitute for cotija cheese?

Feta or queso fresco are great alternatives.

Is there a way to make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free yogurt or mayo for the street corn and skip the cheese.

What type of rice works best?

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

Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, just thaw and char it in a pan for extra flavor.

How can I meal prep this recipe?

Store each ingredient separately and assemble before serving for the best texture.

What’s a good side dish for this bowl?

A side of tortilla chips, black beans, or a simple green salad complements it well.

Can I grill the chicken instead?

Yes! Grill over medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side.

How do I keep avocado from browning?

Squeeze lime juice over the avocado or store it with the pit in an airtight container.

Conclusion

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is an easy, flavorful dish perfect for busy nights. With a mix of smoky, creamy, and fresh ingredients, it delivers bold taste in every bite. Whether you customize it with different proteins or grains, this meal is sure to become a household favorite. Try it today and enjoy a simple yet delicious meal!

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