Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe

There's nothing quite like the combination of smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors in a Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. This vibrant dish brings together tender, seasoned chicken, creamy street corn, and fluffy rice for a meal that's as colorful as it is satisfying.

I first made this recipe after craving the flavors of Mexican street corn while needing something hearty enough to serve as dinner. It quickly became a family favorite, and I love how customizable and quick it is to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Get ready to make your new go-to weeknight dinner. This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is bursting with flavor and checks all the right boxes.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. From start to finish, you’ll have this delicious bowl ready in under 40 minutes. Perfect for busy evenings when you need a quick and satisfying meal.

It’s also packed with layers of flavor. The smoky chicken, tangy corn, and fresh toppings come together beautifully in every bite, creating a well-rounded dish that’s sure to impress your taste buds.

Plus, it’s super versatile. You can customize the bowl with your favorite toppings or swap ingredients to suit your dietary needs. This makes it ideal for families with picky eaters or for anyone looking to get creative in the kitchen.

Finally, it’s perfect for meal prep! Store the components separately, and you’ve got a quick and delicious lunch or dinner for days to come.

Ingredients Notes

This recipe is all about fresh, vibrant ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Here’s a closer look at what makes this bowl so special:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the star protein here. They’re juicy, flavorful, and cook quickly. If you prefer, chicken breasts will work too, though they may be slightly less tender.
• Corn: Use fresh corn on the cob for the best flavor, especially when it’s in season. Alternatively, frozen or canned corn works well for convenience.
• Rice: Fluffy white rice serves as the base of this dish. You can also use brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
• Cotija Cheese: This crumbly, salty cheese adds an authentic touch. If you can’t find Cotija, feta makes a good substitute.
• Mayo and Lime: These ingredients form the creamy dressing for the corn. Together, they create the tangy, zesty flavor that defines street corn.
• Spices: A mix of chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and cumin is used to season both the chicken and the corn for a smoky, savory kick.
• Toppings: Fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and a sprinkle of tajin bring the whole dish together, adding freshness and a pop of color.

You’ll also need a large skillet and a rice cooker or pot for cooking the rice.

How to Make This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

This dish comes together in a few simple steps. Let’s break it down:

1. Cook the Rice
   Start by cooking your rice according to the package instructions. While the rice simmers, move on to the chicken and corn.
2. Prepare the Chicken
   Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season them with chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of oil, and cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Set aside.
3. Make the Street Corn
   In the same skillet, add the corn (cut from the cob or defrosted if frozen). Sauté until lightly charred, about 5 minutes. Mix in mayo, a squeeze of lime juice, and a sprinkle of chili powder. Stir until well combined.
4. Assemble the Bowl
   Divide the cooked rice into bowls, then layer on the chicken and street corn. Sprinkle generously with Cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
5. Add Toppings
   Customize your bowl with toppings like diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream. For extra heat, drizzle with hot sauce or sprinkle with tajin.

This meal comes together in about 40 minutes and delivers a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.

Storage Options

One of the best things about this recipe is how well it stores.

• Refrigerator: Store the chicken, corn, and rice in separate airtight containers for up to 4 days. This keeps everything fresh and allows you to reheat them individually without losing quality.
• Freezer: While the rice and chicken freeze well, the creamy corn is best enjoyed fresh. If you do freeze the chicken and rice, store them in separate freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm the rice and chicken in the microwave or a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. For the corn, reheat gently in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable, so feel free to get creative!

• Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Grain-Free: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more chili powder, jalapeños, or a drizzle of sriracha. For a milder version, skip the spice and focus on the lime and cheese.
• Cheese-Free: If you’re avoiding dairy, skip the Cotija cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative.
• Taco Bowl Style: Serve the chicken and corn over a bed of shredded lettuce instead of rice for a lighter, taco-inspired twist.

No matter how you tweak it, this bowl is sure to deliver bold, satisfying flavors every time.

Ready to dive into a bowl of smoky, creamy, tangy deliciousness? This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a surefire way to satisfy your cravings while keeping things quick, easy, and endlessly customizable. Let us know how you make it your own!

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