There's something magical about the flavors of Mexican street corn combined with juicy, seasoned chicken and fluffy rice. The vibrant colors, creamy textures, and zesty tang make this dish as delightful to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.

This recipe was born out of my love for street food and my desire to create something hearty, wholesome, and perfect for weeknight dinners. It's a family-friendly meal that's quick to assemble yet packed with flavor, making it a go-to in my recipe arsenal.

Ready to make your new favorite rice bowl? Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Get ready for a flavor-packed dish that brings the festive taste of street corn to your kitchen in a whole new way.

Quick and easy to prepare: This recipe comes together in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

A medley of textures: Juicy chicken, creamy street corn, fluffy rice, and a sprinkle of crunchy toppings make every bite exciting.

Customizable for all tastes: Whether you're a spice lover or prefer mild flavors, you can tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences.

Budget-friendly: With a handful of affordable ingredients, you can serve a delicious, restaurant-quality meal at home without breaking the bank.

With this recipe, you'll have a meal that’s delicious, nutritious, and sure to earn a spot in your regular rotation.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here's what you'll need:

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work perfectly. They’re seasoned with a smoky spice blend for that authentic street corn vibe.
Corn: Fresh, canned, or frozen kernels will do the trick. If you can, grill the corn for a smoky flavor that elevates the dish.
Rice: White or brown rice forms the base of this bowl. For added flavor, cook it in chicken broth instead of water.
Cotija cheese: This crumbly, salty cheese is a classic street corn topping. If you can’t find it, feta makes a great substitute.
Lime: Fresh lime juice ties all the flavors together with a bright, tangy finish.
Mayo and sour cream: These create the creamy dressing for the corn, giving it that signature street corn flavor.
Spices: Chili powder, paprika, cumin, and garlic powder add depth and a touch of heat to the chicken and corn.
Optional toppings: Cilantro, avocado slices, and a dash of hot sauce take this dish to the next level.

For this recipe, all you’ll need is a large skillet, a pot for cooking the rice, and a few mixing bowls.

How To Make This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Creating this vibrant dish is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps:

Cook the rice: Start by cooking your rice according to package instructions. For added flavor, use chicken broth instead of water. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and set aside.
Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken with chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of olive oil, and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Make the street corn mix: In a bowl, combine the corn with mayo, sour cream, lime juice, and a pinch of chili powder. Stir until creamy and well-coated.
Assemble the bowls: Start with a base of rice, then add sliced chicken and the creamy street corn mixture.
Garnish and serve: Top with crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Add optional toppings like avocado slices or hot sauce for extra flair.

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 35-40 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal for any day of the week.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this dish stores beautifully!

Refrigeration: Place the components (chicken, rice, and corn mix) in separate airtight containers. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken and rice in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. The creamy corn mixture is best enjoyed fresh but can last up to 1 month in the freezer if needed.
Reheating: Warm the chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stove. For the corn, heat gently in the microwave and stir well to restore its creamy texture.

Variations and Substitution

This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious! Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Swap the protein: Try it with shrimp, ground turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Change the base: Quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even mixed greens can replace the rice for a lighter option.
Adjust the heat: Add more chili powder or diced jalapeños for a spicier kick, or dial it back with a milder spice blend.
Use different cheese: If you can’t find cotija, feta or Parmesan are great substitutes.
Add extra veggies: Roasted bell peppers, diced tomatoes, or black beans would complement the dish beautifully.

Feel free to experiment and let your creativity shine – this recipe is a canvas for your culinary adventures!

The combination of zesty, creamy, and smoky flavors in this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is guaranteed to be a hit. Whether you're whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!