Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl: A Creamy, Spicy, and Irresistible Dish

Name: Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl: A Creamy, Spicy, and Irresistible Dish
Prep time: PT-483759H4M6S
Cook time: PT-483759H4M6S
Total time: PT-483759H4M6S
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 2 tbsp lime juice; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp chili powder; ½ tsp ground cumin; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 2 ears fresh corn, grilled and cut off the cob (or 1 ½ cups canned or frozen corn); 2 tbsp mayonnaise; 2 tbsp sour cream (or Greek yogurt); ¼ cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta); 1 tbsp lime juice; ½ tsp chili powder; ¼ tsp salt; ¼ cup chopped cilantro; 2 tbsp diced red onion (optional); 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (or brown rice, or cauliflower rice for low-carb); 1 tbsp butter or olive oil; 2 tbsp lime juice; ¼ cup chopped cilantro; ½ tsp salt; Avocado slices or guacamole; Pickled red onions; Fresh pico de gallo; Shredded lettuce or sliced radishes; A squeeze of lime juice; Hot sauce or sriracha

Introduction

There’s something magical about the flavors of Mexican street corn (elote)—the smoky, charred sweetness of grilled corn, the creamy richness of cotija cheese and mayo, and that zesty kick from lime and chili powder. Now, imagine combining all those bold, mouthwatering flavors with juicy, seasoned chicken and a warm bed of fluffy rice. That’s exactly what you get with this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl—a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with irresistible taste.

Whether you’re in the mood for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something loaded with flavor, this bowl has you covered. With tender grilled chicken, charred corn, creamy sauce, and fresh toppings, it’s a Mexican-inspired meal that hits every craving. Plus, it’s completely customizable—add avocado, black beans, or extra spice to make it just the way you like!

In this recipe, we’ll walk through everything you need to know—from the perfect seasoning blend for the chicken to tips on getting that signature street corn flavor. By the end, you’ll have a dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to whip up any night of the week!

For the ultimate side pairing, serve it with a warm slice of Southern Cornbread Recipe for an authentic touch.

Why You’ll Love The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Still on the fence? Here’s why this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl deserves a spot in your weekly meal rotation:

Packed with flavor – A perfect mix of smoky, spicy, creamy, and tangy elements.
Quick and easy – Ready in under an hour, with simple ingredients.
Great for meal prep – Stores well and tastes even better the next day!
High in protein – A balanced meal with grilled chicken, rice, and hearty toppings.
Customizable – Swap ingredients to fit your dietary needs (gluten-free, low-carb, or dairy-free options).
Family-friendly – A dish that’s loved by both kids and adults!

Whether you want a healthy meal prep option or a fun, flavor-packed dinner, this bowl checks all the boxes!

If you love bold Mexican flavors, try this Authentic Birria Tacos Recipe for another delicious dinner idea!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Before we get cooking, let’s break down everything you’ll need for this recipe.

For the Chicken & Marinade

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
2 tbsp lime juice
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper

For the Street Corn Topping

2 ears fresh corn, grilled and cut off the cob (or 1 ½ cups canned/frozen corn)
2 tbsp mayonnaise
2 tbsp sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
¼ cup cotija cheese, crumbled (substitute with feta or queso fresco)
1 tbsp lime juice
½ tsp chili powder
¼ tsp salt
¼ cup chopped cilantro
2 tbsp diced red onion (optional)

For the Rice Base

2 cups cooked jasmine rice (white or brown rice, or cauliflower rice for low-carb)
1 tbsp butter or olive oil
2 tbsp lime juice
¼ cup chopped cilantro
½ tsp salt

Toppings & Garnishes (Optional but Recommended!)

Avocado slices or guacamole
Pickled red onions for extra zing
Fresh pico de gallo
Shredded lettuce or sliced radishes for crunch
Squeeze of lime for extra freshness
Drizzle of hot sauce for heat

How to Make a Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Ready to whip up this delicious dish? Follow these step-by-step instructions!

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, and seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper).
Add the chicken breasts and coat them evenly in the marinade.
Cover and let it sit for at least 15 minutes (or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Juicy grilled chicken cooking in a skillet, seasoned with spices, lime, and fresh cilantro.

Grill Option: Heat a grill to medium-high and cook the chicken for 8-10 minutes per side, until fully cooked (165°F internal temp).

Skillet Option: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook for 6-8 minutes per side.

Oven Option: Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.

Once done, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

For a healthier cooking method, check out How to Cook Chicken Without Oil or Butter to keep it light without losing flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Street Corn Topping

Mixing bowl with grilled corn, creamy sauce, cotija cheese, and spices, ready to be combined for the Street Corn topping.

1- If using fresh corn, grill it over medium heat, turning occasionally, until charred (about 8-10 minutes). Then, cut off the kernels.

2- If using canned or frozen corn, sauté it in a dry skillet over medium-high heat until golden and slightly charred.

3- In a bowl, mix together the grilled corn, mayo, sour cream, cotija cheese, lime juice, chili powder, salt, cilantro, and red onion.

Step 4: Cook and Season the Rice

Cook the jasmine rice according to package instructions.
Once cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in butter, lime juice, cilantro, and salt.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

Hands assembling a Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl with rice, grilled chicken, and street corn topping, garnished with fresh toppings.

Divide the rice into bowls.

Add sliced chicken on top.

Spoon on the street corn topping.

Garnish with avocado, pico de gallo, pickled onions, and extra cotija cheese.

Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a drizzle of hot sauce if desired.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve warm and dig in! This dish pairs well with a side of black beans, a crisp salad, or tortilla chips with salsa.

For a fun alternative, try these Quick & Easy Rice Cakes—a crispy way to enjoy rice!

Expert Tips & Variations for a Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Want to take your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl to the next level? Here are some expert tips and creative variations to make this dish even more exciting.

Tips for Maximum Flavor

Marinate Longer – Letting the chicken soak in the lime juice and spices for at least 30 minutes to overnight deepens the flavor.
Char the Corn Properly – Use high heat when grilling or pan-roasting the corn to get that smoky, caramelized taste.
Rest the Chicken – After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
Use Fresh Lime Juice – Bottled lime juice won’t give the same bright, tangy flavor.

Looking for a protein-packed side dish? Try this Ultimate Guide to Protein Cornbread for a filling complement!

Meal prep containers with Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl ingredients, perfect for a quick and healthy meal.

Ingredient Swaps & Dietary Adjustments

Need to modify the recipe for your diet? No problem! Here are some easy swaps:

Gluten-Free Option – This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just check that your seasonings and toppings don’t contain hidden gluten.
Dairy-Free Alternative – Swap sour cream for dairy-free yogurt and replace cotija cheese with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese.
Low-Carb/Keto Version – Use cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice.
Vegetarian Twist – Replace chicken with grilled tofu, black beans, or roasted sweet potatoes for a plant-based option.
Spice Level Adjustments – Want it milder? Reduce the chili powder. Want more heat? Add chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper.

Creative Additions

If you love variety, try these extra toppings:

Roasted poblano peppers for a smoky kick
Pickled jalapeños for extra tang
Sliced radishes for crunch
Shredded lettuce for a fresh contrast

FAQs about Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

How Do You Arrange a Rice Bowl?

Arranging a Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is simple and can be done in a way that enhances both flavor and presentation. Here’s how to do it:
Start with the Base – Spread a layer of warm cilantro lime rice (or your choice of rice) in a bowl.
Add the Protein – Place sliced grilled chicken (or your preferred protein) neatly on one side of the bowl.
Spoon on the Street Corn Topping – Add a generous amount of the creamy, smoky corn mixture over the rice or next to the chicken.
Include Extra Toppings – Arrange avocado slices, pickled red onions, pico de gallo, or shredded lettuce for added texture and flavor.
Garnish for a Finishing Touch – Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice over the top.
Optional Heat Boost – Drizzle with hot sauce or sriracha for extra spice.
The goal is to keep each ingredient visible and well-balanced so every bite includes all the flavors of the dish.

Do You Heat Up Street Corn?

Yes, street corn (elote) is traditionally served warm because the heat enhances the smoky, creamy flavors.
Fresh Corn on the Cob – If using fresh corn, it’s best to grill or pan-roast it for a smoky, slightly charred taste.
Frozen or Canned Corn – If using frozen or canned corn, sauté it in a dry skillet over medium-high heat to add some color and flavor.
Serving Temperature – While the corn itself should be warm, the creamy mixture (mayonnaise, sour cream, cheese, and lime) can be added at room temperature to keep the right texture.
For the best results, serve the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl while both the chicken and corn are warm, which helps bring out the bold flavors of the dish! 😊

Conclusion about Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

A fully assembled Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl with fresh toppings, ready to be enjoyed.

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is the perfect way to enjoy bold, vibrant flavors in a dish that’s both comforting and easy to make. With tender, spiced grilled chicken, smoky charred corn, creamy cotija cheese, and zesty lime rice, every bite is packed with delicious Mexican-inspired goodness.

Not only is this meal quick and simple, but it’s also versatile—you can customize it to suit your dietary needs by swapping ingredients, adjusting the spice level, or adding your favorite toppings. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving a crowd, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.

So, if you’re craving something creamy, spicy, smoky, and satisfying, give this Mexican street corn rice bowl a try. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that you can easily make in your own kitchen—no special skills required!

Now it’s your turn!

Try this recipe and let me know how it turned out in the comments. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share your favorite variations!

More Recipes You’ll Love

Looking for more delicious rice bowl recipes? Try these:

Authentic Birria Tacos Recipe – A rich, flavorful taco option.
Southern Cornbread Recipe – A perfect side dish.
Quick & Easy Rice Cakes Recipes – A crispy, snackable alternative.

That’s it! Now you have everything you need to make the perfect Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl at home.

Enjoy cooking, and don’t forget to experiment with your own toppings and flavors!

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl: A Creamy, Spicy, and Irresistible Dish

Author: Janet
Total Time: 45M
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a flavorful, protein-packed meal featuring juicy grilled chicken, smoky charred corn, creamy cotija cheese, and zesty lime rice. Inspired by Mexican street corn (elote), this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a healthy, satisfying meal. It’s easy to make, customizable, and full of bold flavors that will keep you coming back for more!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken & Marinade:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
2 tbsp lime juice
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper

For the Street Corn Topping:

2 ears fresh corn, grilled and cut off the cob (or 1 ½ cups canned or frozen corn)
2 tbsp mayonnaise
2 tbsp sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
¼ cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta)
1 tbsp lime juice
½ tsp chili powder
¼ tsp salt
¼ cup chopped cilantro
2 tbsp diced red onion (optional)

For the Rice Base:

2 cups cooked jasmine rice (or brown rice, or cauliflower rice for low-carb)
1 tbsp butter or olive oil
2 tbsp lime juice
¼ cup chopped cilantro
½ tsp salt

Optional Garnishes & Toppings:

Avocado slices or guacamole
Pickled red onions
Fresh pico de gallo
Shredded lettuce or sliced radishes
A squeeze of lime juice
Hot sauce or sriracha