Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a bold, flavor-packed dish that combines the richness of grilled chicken with the creamy, tangy decadence of elote-style corn. Served over a bed of warm, fluffy rice and topped with fresh cilantro, cotija cheese, and lime juice, it’s a mouthwatering meal that satisfies every craving in just one bowl.

This bowl is inspired by the vibrant street food of Mexico, blending smoky spices with creamy textures and fresh ingredients. It’s perfect for a quick dinner, lunch prep, or even a backyard gathering. Whether you love bold flavors or need a new way to enjoy chicken and rice, this bowl brings something exciting to your table with minimal effort.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons sour cream

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (extra for topping)

• Juice of 1 lime

• 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese

• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

• 1/2 avocado, sliced (optional)

• Lime wedges, for serving

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this marinade over the chicken breasts.

2. Grill or pan-sear the chicken over medium-high heat for 6–7 minutes per side or until fully cooked. Let rest, then slice thinly.

3. In a skillet over medium heat, add a teaspoon of oil and sauté corn for 3–5 minutes until lightly charred.

4. In a bowl, mix together mayo, sour cream, garlic powder, chili powder, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Toss the corn with this mixture until well coated.

5. To assemble the bowls, start with a base of warm cooked rice. Top with sliced grilled chicken, creamy street corn, cotija cheese, cilantro, and green onions.

6. Add avocado slices if using, sprinkle extra chili powder, and serve with lime wedges.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 510 kcal | Servings: 2 servings

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl: A Flavorful Mexican-Inspired Comfort Meal

If there’s one dish that perfectly balances bold flavors, comfort, and convenience, it’s the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. This vibrant and wholesome recipe draws inspiration from classic Mexican street corn (elote) and combines it with juicy, spice-rubbed grilled chicken over a bed of fluffy rice. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a fresh meal prep idea, or a crowd-pleaser for a casual get-together, this dish ticks every box.

Street food culture in Mexico is known for its rich flavors, bold spices, and crave-worthy textures and one of the most iconic items in that realm is elote. It’s charred corn slathered in creamy mayo, tangy lime, chili powder, and a generous sprinkling of salty cotija cheese. It’s smoky, creamy, spicy, sweet, and tangy all in one bite. By incorporating these classic street corn flavors into a hearty rice bowl with tender grilled chicken, you create a satisfying, well-balanced meal that feels indulgent but is packed with wholesome ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl has become a staple for food lovers seeking a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s also versatile and customizable. Here’s why:

• Bold and balanced flavor profile – The chili-lime grilled chicken adds heat and zest, while the creamy elote-style corn provides a rich, tangy contrast. It’s a match made in food heaven.

• Nutrient-rich ingredients – This bowl offers a balanced combination of lean protein, fiber-rich rice, healthy fats (from the avocado), and vitamins from the corn, herbs, and lime.

• Customizable and meal-prep friendly – Swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa for extra fiber. Make it dairy-free with vegan mayo and plant-based cheese. It’s perfect for prepping multiple lunches in advance.

• Quick to prepare – From start to finish, this meal can be on your table in under 40 minutes.

The Key Ingredients That Make It Shine

Let’s break down what goes into this bowl and why each component is essential:

Grilled Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work beautifully here. They are rubbed with a simple but flavorful blend of olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, which creates a smoky crust when grilled. This spice blend complements the creaminess of the corn topping without overpowering the dish.

If you don’t have a grill, pan-searing or baking works just as well. The goal is juicy, well-seasoned chicken that can be sliced and fanned out over your rice base.

Street Corn (Elote) Mixture

The real magic of this dish lies in the creamy street corn topping. This component replicates the traditional elote found on the streets of Mexico. Here’s what makes it so irresistible:

• Corn kernels – Whether you use fresh, frozen, or canned corn, a quick sauté or grill chars the edges and adds depth of flavor.

• Mayonnaise & sour cream – These ingredients form the base of the creamy dressing. You can also use Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.

• Lime juice – Brings freshness and acidity, which lifts the richness of the sauce.

• Garlic powder & chili powder – A pinch of each brings warmth and depth.

• Cotija cheese – This crumbly, salty cheese adds texture and a burst of flavor. If cotija is unavailable, crumbled feta is a great substitute.

The Rice Base

White rice is the classic choice here, as it soaks up all the juices and sauces beautifully. However, brown rice, cilantro lime rice, or even cauliflower rice can be used for a lower-carb option. Season your rice with a bit of lime zest, juice, and chopped cilantro for that extra layer of brightness.

Garnishes and Extras

Don’t skip the toppings! These bring color, texture, and even more flavor:

• Chopped cilantro and green onions – For freshness and a pop of green.

• Avocado slices – Add creaminess and healthy fats.

• Lime wedges – Let everyone squeeze fresh lime on their bowl to enhance the flavors.

• Extra cotija cheese or a sprinkle of chili powder – For added indulgence.

Variations and Substitutions

This bowl is extremely versatile. Here are some fun ways to adapt it to your preferences or dietary needs:

• Vegetarian version – Skip the chicken and add black beans or grilled tofu for plant-based protein.

• Make it a burrito – Wrap everything in a large tortilla for a grab-and-go version.

• Turn it into a salad – Serve the chicken and corn mixture over chopped romaine or kale with a drizzle of lime dressing.

• Spice level – Add chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce if you like it fiery.

• Vegan version – Use vegan mayo and dairy-free cheese alternatives. Replace chicken with grilled mushrooms or tempeh.

When and Where to Serve

This dish is perfect for almost any occasion. Here’s how you can enjoy it:

• Weeknight dinner – Quick, filling, and requires minimal cleanup.

• Lunch prep – Portion it into meal-prep containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

• Picnics and potlucks – It travels well and can be served warm or cold.

• Game day meals – Serve in small bowls or cups as a fun and flavorful crowd-pleaser.

• Taco night alternative – Set up a bowl-building station with different toppings and let guests create their own versions.

Cooking Tips and Tricks

• Rest the chicken before slicing – Letting it rest for 5 minutes after cooking locks in the juices.

• Char the corn – Whether in a skillet or on the grill, that char adds so much flavor and authenticity.

• Don’t skip the lime – Lime juice is essential for balancing the richness of the creamy corn and the spices in the chicken.

• Layer for impact – Build your bowl with care, starting with rice, followed by chicken, corn, and garnishes. This makes for a visually appealing presentation.

Nutritional Profile (Per Serving)

Here’s a rough breakdown (may vary based on ingredients used):

• Calories: 510 kcal

• Protein: 32g

• Carbohydrates: 42g

• Fat: 24g

• Fiber: 5g

• Sugar: 3g

This is a balanced meal that keeps you full and satisfied. You get complex carbs, healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl with:

• A refreshing agua fresca (try watermelon or cucumber lime)

• A light green salad with vinaigrette

• A side of tortilla chips and salsa or guacamole

• A margarita for adult dinners or a hibiscus iced tea for family meals

Conclusion

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl brings together everything we love about bold, comforting, and vibrant cuisine. Inspired by traditional Mexican street corn, this dish combines tender grilled chicken, creamy elote-style corn, and a fresh, zesty rice base to deliver a restaurant-quality experience at home.

Whether you’re making this for your family on a busy weeknight, prepping lunches for the week ahead, or impressing guests at your next backyard BBQ, this bowl is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its customizable ingredients and easy prep, it’s a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire that never fails to satisfy.

So go ahead and gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet or grill, and enjoy a burst of flavors in every bite of this colorful and crave-worthy bowl.