Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl: A Flavor Fiesta of Smoky, Sweet & Savory Goodness 🌽🍗🔥

1. Introduction

Bring the vibrant flavors of Mexican street food to your kitchen with this irresistible Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl recipe! This dish combines juicy grilled chicken, charred corn, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice for a meal that’s bursting with texture and taste. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this street corn chicken rice bowl delivers restaurant-quality flavors in under 30 minutes.

If you’re looking for more delicious dinner ideas, this recipe is a fantastic addition to your rotation. The combination of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors makes it stand out from typical chicken dishes, while still being simple enough for busy nights.

2. Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless chicken breast (try our best chicken recipes for more ideas)
• 1 cup white rice (or substitute with brown rice for extra fiber)
• 2 ears fresh corn (or 1 cup frozen corn)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (queso fresco works too)
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 lime, juiced (plus extra wedges for serving)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

For those who love exploring different chicken recipe variations, this street corn bowl offers endless customization options. The ingredients list may look simple, but the flavor combination is absolutely magical!

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Rice Base

Cook 1 cup of white rice according to package instructions. For extra flavor, cook the rice in chicken broth instead of water – this simple trick adds incredible depth to your street corn chicken rice bowl. Fluff the rice with a fork when done and set aside covered to keep warm.

Pro tip: If you’re making this for meal prep, slightly undercook the rice so it maintains perfect texture when reheated. This same technique works great for our loaded potato soup side dishes too!

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Season chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and 1/2 tsp chili powder. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips – this keeps the juices locked in for maximum flavor.

For alternative cooking methods, you can pan-sear or bake the chicken. The key is getting that beautiful char and smoky flavor that makes this street corn chicken rice bowl so special. If you love easy chicken dishes, check out our kielbasa potato soup for another protein-packed meal idea.

Step 3: Char the Corn

Remove kernels from corn cobs using a sharp knife. Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat and cook corn kernels until slightly charred (about 5 minutes), stirring occasionally. Season with remaining chili powder and smoked paprika for that authentic street corn flavor.

Fun fact: The charring process (called the Maillard reaction) creates complex flavor compounds that make this street corn chicken rice bowl taste so incredible. For more vegetable side dish inspiration, try our honey cinnamon roasted sweet potatoes.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

Divide rice among bowls. Top with chicken strips, charred corn, and drizzle with the creamy sauce (mix mayo, sour cream, and lime juice). Garnish generously with cotija cheese and fresh cilantro for that authentic Mexican street food experience.

Presentation tip: Serve in wide, shallow bowls to showcase all the beautiful layers. For more bowl meal inspiration, check out this similar street corn chicken rice bowl variation from our friends at Cocinarepublic.

4. Cooking Tips

• For extra smoky flavor, grill the corn instead of pan-charring – the open flame adds incredible depth
• Make it spicy by adding diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce (great with our refreshing drinks to cool down)
• Meal prep friendly: components stay fresh for 3-4 days in the fridge when stored properly
• Vegetarian option: substitute chicken with black beans or grilled portobello mushrooms
• For creamier texture, blend some of the charred corn into the sauce

5. Serving Suggestions

Serve your street corn chicken rice bowl with lime wedges for squeezing, extra hot sauce on the side, and warm tortillas. This dish pairs perfectly with an ice-cold Mexican beer or agua fresca. For larger gatherings, consider serving alongside our beef recipes for variety.

6. Nutritional Information

One serving of this street corn chicken rice bowl contains approximately 550 calories, 35g protein, 55g carbs, and 20g fat. It’s a balanced meal with complex carbs from rice, lean protein from chicken, and healthy fats from the creamy sauce. The dish also provides calcium from the cheese and vitamin C from the lime juice.

7. Variations

• Brown rice or quinoa for a whole grain option (great for meal prep)
• Add avocado slices for extra creaminess and healthy fats
• Try different cheeses like feta or queso fresco based on availability
• Add roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra veggies and color
• For soup lovers, the flavors would translate beautifully into a street corn chicken soup variation

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen corn?

Yes! Frozen corn works well – just pat it dry before charring for better browning. Some brands even offer fire-roasted frozen corn that adds extra flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days. The rice and chicken reheat best with a splash of water to restore moisture. The corn and sauce can be served cold or gently reheated.

Can I make this ahead?

Absolutely! This street corn chicken rice bowl is excellent for meal prep – just assemble when ready to eat to maintain texture. The flavors actually improve after a day as they meld together.

What if I can’t find cotija cheese?

Feta cheese makes a good substitute, though slightly saltier. Queso fresco or even grated Parmesan can work in a pinch.

9. Conclusion

This street corn chicken rice bowl recipe delivers an explosion of flavors and textures in every bite. The combination of smoky grilled chicken, sweet charred corn, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice creates a satisfying meal that’s both comforting and exciting. Easy to customize and perfect for any occasion, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.

We hope you enjoy making (and eating!) this delicious recipe as much as we do. For more culinary inspiration and cooking tips, visit our about page to learn more about our kitchen philosophy. Try it tonight and bring the vibrant taste of street food to your dinner table!

Print