If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying, and flavor-packed meal, this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a must-try! Inspired by Mexican street corn (elote), this dish combines juicy grilled chicken, charred corn, creamy cotija cheese, and fluffy rice into a delicious bowl that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Why You’ll Love Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
✅ Packed with bold, smoky, and zesty flavors
✅ Easy to make in under 30 minutes
✅ Customizable with your favorite toppings
✅ Perfect for meal prep or a weeknight dinner
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Street Corn:
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sour cream
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ cup cotija cheese (or feta, crumbled)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro (chopped)
For the Rice Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cilantro-lime rice)
- 1 avocado (sliced)
- 1 jalapeño (sliced, optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro (chopped)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice.
- Rub the seasoning all over the chicken.
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.
Step 2: Make the Street Corn
- Heat a dry skillet over medium-high heat and add the corn kernels. Cook for 3–5 minutes until slightly charred.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cotija cheese, lime juice, and cilantro. Stir in the charred corn.
Step 3: Assemble the Rice Bowl
- Divide the cooked rice into bowls.
- Top each bowl with sliced chicken, the street corn mixture, and sliced avocado.
- Garnish with jalapeño slices, fresh cilantro, and extra cotija cheese.
- Serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of citrusy flavor.
Tips & Variations
- Make it spicy: Add a drizzle of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Swap the protein: Try shrimp, tofu, or black beans for a vegetarian option.
- Lower-carb option: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
- Extra crunch: Top with crushed tortilla chips or roasted pepitas.
Frequently Asked Questions about Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the chicken, rice, and street corn in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers and assemble when ready to eat.
What can I substitute for cotija cheese?
Feta cheese or parmesan work well as substitutes if cotija cheese isn’t available.
Can I use frozen corn?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it first, then char it in a skillet for the best flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a fantastic mix of bold flavors and fresh ingredients, making it a go-to meal for any occasion. Whether you’re meal prepping or making a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Try it out and let us know how you customize your bowl!
Looking for more easy and delicious recipes? Check out more at GatheredRecipes.com! 🍽️