Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the explosion of flavor you get with a Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. Juicy, seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, and zesty street corn come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and full of vibrant, fresh flavors.

this Recipe

The first time I tried this recipe, it was inspired by my love for Mexican street corn—creamy, tangy, and loaded with spices. Pairing those bold flavors with tender chicken and hearty rice makes this dish a complete meal you’ll want to add to your weekly rotation. Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Get ready to make your new favorite weeknight dinner. This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl checks all the boxes for flavor, convenience, and crowd-pleasing appeal.

First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, even on a busy evening. With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have this bowl ready in under 40 minutes.

Next, it’s packed with bold and fresh flavors. From the seasoned chicken to the creamy street corn topping, every bite is a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and savory.

This dish is also family-friendly. You can customize the toppings to suit picky eaters or spice it up for those who love a little heat.

And finally, it’s a budget-friendly meal. Using pantry staples like rice, frozen corn, and a few fresh ingredients, this bowl is as affordable as it is delicious.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Let’s break them down:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work perfectly. Marinating them in a blend of lime juice, chili powder, and garlic gives them a punch of flavor.
• Rice: Fluffy white rice provides the perfect base for soaking up all the delicious toppings. You can use jasmine, basmati, or even brown rice for a nuttier taste.
• Corn: For that authentic street corn vibe, I recommend using grilled or roasted corn. Frozen or canned corn works too—just give it a quick char in a hot skillet.
• Cotija Cheese: This crumbly, salty cheese is a must for recreating the classic street corn flavor. If you can’t find it, feta or queso fresco are great substitutes.
• Mexican Crema: It adds creaminess and tang. Sour cream thinned with a splash of milk or lime juice is a quick alternative.
• Spices: Chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cumin come together to season the chicken and corn perfectly.
• Lime Juice and Cilantro: These fresh ingredients brighten up the dish and tie all the flavors together beautifully.

Special Equipment: A large skillet or grill pan is ideal for cooking the chicken and getting that perfect sear.

How To Make This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Creating this flavorful bowl is a breeze. Here’s how to make it step by step:

1. Cook the Rice: Begin by cooking your rice according to package instructions. Fluff it with a fork once done, and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, marinate the chicken with lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, and a drizzle of olive oil. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the corn.
3. Char the Corn: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn (drain if using canned) and cook until lightly charred, stirring occasionally. This step brings out its natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor.
4. Cook the Chicken: In the same skillet or a grill pan, cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
5. Assemble the Bowl: Start with a base of rice, then layer on the sliced chicken, charred corn, and your favorite toppings. Sprinkle with cotija cheese, drizzle with Mexican crema, and finish with a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro.

In under 40 minutes, you’ll have a bowl bursting with flavor, texture, and color!

Storage Options

This dish is as meal-prep friendly as it is delicious. Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the rice, chicken, and toppings in separate compartments if possible.
• Freeze: The rice and chicken can be frozen in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm the rice and chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of water to prevent the rice from drying out. Assemble with fresh toppings just before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative! Here are a few ideas:

1. Make It Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, or use plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh.
2. Switch the Base: Try quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even a bed of fresh greens for a lighter option.
3. Add Heat: Love spice? Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to kick things up a notch.
4. Extra Toppings: Avocado slices, black beans, or a handful of crushed tortilla chips add even more texture and flavor.
5. Dairy-Free: Replace the crema with a vegan yogurt alternative and skip the cheese or use a plant-based version.

No matter how you customize it, this bowl is guaranteed to be a hit.

Final Thoughts

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is proof that simple ingredients can deliver big, bold flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even casual gatherings with friends. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s become a staple in our household. Give it a go and let me know what you think!

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