Name: Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp chili powder; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups cooked white or brown rice; 1 1/2 cups corn (grilled, canned, or thawed frozen); 2 tbsp mayonnaise; 2 tbsp sour cream; 1 tbsp lime juice; 1/4 cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese; 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro; Optional toppings: diced avocado, jalapeño slices, hot sauce, extra lime wedges

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The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a vibrant, flavor-packed meal that combines juicy grilled chicken, creamy street corn, and fluffy rice in one satisfying dish. I love how it brings bold Mexican-inspired flavors together in a bowl that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly customizable and comes together quickly, especially if I already have cooked rice on hand. The chicken is smoky and tender, the corn is creamy with a hint of spice, and everything is tied together with tangy lime and fresh toppings. It feels like street food comfort in a bowl — but made easily at home.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Olive oil
Chili powder
Garlic powder
Paprika
Salt and pepper
Cooked white or brown rice
Corn (grilled, canned, or frozen and thawed)
Mayonnaise
Sour cream
Lime juice
Crumbled cotija or feta cheese
Fresh cilantro
Optional toppings: diced avocado, jalapeño slices, hot sauce

Directions

I start by seasoning the chicken with olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
I grill or pan-sear the chicken over medium-high heat for about 5–7 minutes per side, until cooked through and nicely charred. I let it rest before slicing.
While the chicken cooks, I prepare the street corn mix: I combine the corn with mayo, sour cream, lime juice, and cheese. I add salt to taste and stir in some chopped cilantro.
I warm up the rice and divide it into bowls.
I top the rice with sliced chicken and generous scoops of the street corn mixture.
I finish each bowl with extra cheese, cilantro, lime wedges, and any optional toppings I’m craving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 hearty bowls. It takes around 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so I can have it on the table in 30 minutes or less — perfect for a weeknight meal.

Variations

Sometimes I swap the chicken for grilled shrimp, steak, or even tofu. I’ve also added black beans or chopped tomatoes for extra texture. If I want a spicier bowl, I mix hot sauce or chipotle into the corn mixture. Cauliflower rice works great if I’m going low-carb.

Storage/Reheating

I store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm the rice and chicken in the microwave or on the stove, then top with the cold or room-temp street corn and fresh garnishes. It still tastes fresh and flavorful.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, I often use shredded rotisserie chicken when I’m short on time. It soaks up the seasonings well and cuts down on cooking.

What if I don’t have cotija cheese?

Feta is a great substitute, or I sometimes use shredded parmesan in a pinch. Cotija just adds that classic salty punch.

Can I make it ahead for meal prep?

Absolutely. I prepare all the components and store them separately. When I’m ready to eat, I just assemble the bowl fresh.

How spicy is the corn mixture?

It’s mild, but I can increase the heat by adding chili powder, cayenne, or a diced jalapeño. I adjust it to my taste.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all the ingredients (like mayo and seasonings) are gluten-free, this bowl is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a go-to when I want something fast, flavorful, and filling. With tender grilled chicken, creamy elote-style corn, and warm rice, it’s the kind of dish that feels both comforting and exciting. I always find myself going back for seconds.