If you’re looking for a hearty, delicious, and flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner, the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is your new go-to dish. Inspired by the popular Mexican street corn, this bowl brings together juicy grilled chicken, zesty corn, seasoned rice, and a creamy, tangy sauce that ties everything together. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or whipping up a quick family dinner, this dish checks all the boxes it’s satisfying, nutritious, and irresistibly tasty.
What Is a Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?
The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a fusion recipe combining classic elote (Mexican street corn) flavors with grilled chicken and rice. This bowl typically features:
- Grilled or pan-seared chicken seasoned with smoky spices
- Roasted or sautéed corn, often charred for extra flavor
- Cooked rice (white, brown, or cilantro lime)
- A creamy, tangy sauce made with mayo, sour cream, lime juice, and Cotija cheese
- Garnishes like cilantro, jalapeño, red onion, or lime wedges
The best part? It’s customizable and easy to make ahead.
Why You’ll Love This Bowl
- Flavor Explosion – Every bite delivers a mix of smoky, creamy, tangy, and spicy notes.
- Meal Prep Friendly – Make components in advance and assemble when ready.
- Nutritious & Balanced – Packed with protein, carbs, and healthy fats.
- Gluten-Free Option – Naturally gluten-free when using gluten-free ingredients.
Key Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of what you need for the ultimate Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Corn:
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 tsp butter or olive oil
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Pinch of salt
For the Rice:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or Mexican-style rice)
- Optional: lime zest, chopped cilantro for extra flavor
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 cup crumbled Cotija cheese (or feta)
- Pinch of chili powder
Toppings:
- Diced red onion
- Sliced jalapeño
- Fresh cilantro
- Extra Cotija cheese
- Lime wedges
How to Make Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
1. Prepare the Chicken
Season chicken breasts with olive oil, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill or pan-sear over medium-high heat for 6–8 minutes per side, until fully cooked. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
2. Cook the Corn
In a skillet, heat butter or oil over medium-high heat. Add corn, chili powder, and salt. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until corn begins to char.
3. Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and Cotija cheese. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Assemble the Bowl
Layer cooked rice in each bowl, followed by sliced chicken and street corn. Drizzle generously with the creamy sauce. Finish with your favorite toppings like jalapeño, red onion, cilantro, and lime wedges.
Variations to Try
- Make it Spicy: Add sriracha or hot sauce to the creamy topping.
- Add Greens: Include shredded lettuce or kale for extra crunch.
- Top with Avocado: Creamy avocado adds healthy fats and richness.
- Turn It Into Tacos: Skip the rice and stuff the mix into warm tortillas.
- Swap Cheese: Use feta or queso fresco if Cotija is unavailable.
Nutritional Benefits
A Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is not just delicious it’s also packed with nutritional goodness:
- Protein: From lean chicken breast
- Fiber: From corn and optional toppings like black beans
- Healthy Fats: From olive oil and avocado
- Calcium: Thanks to the Cotija cheese
- Vitamins: Including vitamin C from lime juice and corn
Final Thoughts
The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl brings comfort, flavor, and freshness in every bite. It’s a modern take on classic street food with a healthy twist. Whether you’re cooking for your family, impressing guests, or planning weekday lunches, this bowl is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Try it once, and it might just become a staple in your kitchen!