Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl – A Flavorful and Easy One-Bowl Meal!

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Introduction

If you love the bold, zesty flavors of Mexican street corn (Elote) and the comforting goodness of a chicken and rice bowl, then this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is about to become your new favorite meal! 🍗🌽🍚

This dish combines juicy, seasoned chicken, creamy street corn, and fluffy rice, all topped with a tangy, smoky sauce, fresh lime, and cotija cheese. It’s the perfect mix of savory, creamy, and spicy in one bite!

Best of all? It’s easy to make, comes together in just 30 minutes, and works great for meal prep, quick lunches, or family dinners. Let’s get cooking! 🔥

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 boneless thighs)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Juice of ½ lime

For the Street Corn Topping:

  • 1 ½ cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned & drained)
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

For the Rice Bowl:

  • 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish (Optional, but Highly Recommended!):

  • Extra cotija cheese
  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges
  • Hot sauce or Tajín seasoning

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

  1. Cook white or brown rice according to package instructions.
  2. Stir in butter, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper for extra flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. In a small bowl, mix chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  2. Rub the spice mix over the chicken breasts, then drizzle with lime juice and olive oil.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (165°F internal temp).
  4. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice or chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Street Corn Topping

  1. In a bowl, mix together corn, mayo, sour cream, chili powder, smoked paprika, and lime juice.
  2. Stir in cotija cheese and fresh cilantro.

Step 4: Assemble the Rice Bowls

  1. Add a scoop of garlic butter rice to each bowl.
  2. Top with sliced chicken and street corn topping.
  3. Garnish with extra cotija cheese, cilantro, lime wedges, and jalapeños.
  4. Drizzle with hot sauce or Tajín for an extra kick!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations of Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

  • Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the street corn topping. 🌶️
  • Extra Protein: Mix in black beans or top with a fried egg.
  • Low-Carb Option: Swap rice for cauliflower rice or shredded lettuce.
  • Taco-Style: Wrap the ingredients in a warm tortilla for a street corn chicken taco!
  • Dairy-Free Version: Use vegan mayo and dairy-free sour cream.

Storage and Reheating

How to Store Leftovers

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Keep the chicken and rice separate in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Best Way to Reheat

  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.
  • Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Absolutely! Just toss shredded rotisserie chicken with lime juice and seasonings.

2. Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing?

Yes! Grill over medium heat for 5-6 minutes per side for extra smoky flavor.

3. What’s the best rice for this dish?

Jasmine or basmati rice work best, but brown rice is a great healthy option!

4. Can I use frozen corn for the street corn topping?

Yep! Just thaw and drain before mixing it in.

5. What cheese works best if I don’t have cotija?

Feta or Parmesan are great substitutes!

6. Can I make this ahead for meal prep?

Yes! Store the chicken, rice, and street corn separately and assemble when ready.

7. How do I make this bowl extra creamy?

Mix in ½ an avocado or a dollop of guacamole.

8. Can I add more veggies?

Absolutely! Try adding grilled peppers, tomatoes, or avocado slices.

9. What sauce goes well with this?

A drizzle of chipotle mayo, avocado crema, or sriracha ranch takes it to the next level!

10. Can I turn this into a salad?

Yes! Swap rice for chopped romaine lettuce or spinach for a fresh, crunchy version.

Conclusion

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a flavor explosion in every bite! With juicy chicken, creamy street corn, and garlicky butter rice, it’s the perfect quick dinner, meal prep option, or weeknight favorite.

🔥 So grab your skillet, some corn, and let’s make this insanely delicious bowl tonight! 🌽🍗🍚✨

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