Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the best parts of street corn with tender chicken and rice in one satisfying bowl.

• The lime, chili powder, and cotija cheese offer a perfect balance of tang and spice.

• Highly versatile—add toppings like avocado, black beans, or extra cilantro to customize.

• Quick and easy to make, yet it feels like a special meal.

• Great for meal prep or busy weeknights with minimal effort.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless) – can substitute with chicken breasts

• Lime juice – adds freshness; lemon juice can be used instead

• Avocado oil – substitute with olive oil or vegetable oil

• Chili powder – adds smoky flavor; paprika can be used if preferred

• Garlic powder – optional, or fresh garlic cloves

• Salt and black pepper

For the Street Corn Topping:

• Sweet corn kernels (grilled, if possible) – fresh or frozen

• Red onion, thinly sliced – optional, adds crunch

• Sour cream – can substitute with Greek yogurt

• Mayonnaise – adds creaminess; can omit or use extra sour cream

• Cotija cheese – substitute with feta or queso fresco

• Chili powder – for flavor

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Lime wedges – for extra zest

For the Rice and Assembly:

• Cooked jasmine rice – or use white, brown, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option

• Fresh cilantro – optional, or substitute with parsley or green onions for garnish

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine lime juice, avocado oil, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 15-30 minutes.

2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and cook for 8-10 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from heat and let rest. Slice into strips or chunks.

3. Prepare the Street Corn Topping: In a bowl, combine grilled corn, red onion (if using), sour cream, mayonnaise, crumbled Cotija cheese, chili powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Mix thoroughly.

4. Reheat the Rice: If using cold rice, add a splash of water and reheat in the microwave or over low heat in a pan.

5. Assemble the Bowls: Start with a base of rice in each bowl. Top with sliced chicken, street corn mixture, Cotija cheese, and cilantro. Add a lime wedge on the side.

6. Serve: Serve warm with a final squeeze of lime before eating.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Total Time: 45 minutes

  • Prep Time: 15-30 minutes (marinating time)

  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

Variations

• Add Heat: For extra spice, incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne into the corn topping.

• Low-Carb Option: Substitute jasmine rice with cauliflower rice.

• Toppings: Include avocado, pico de gallo, or radish slices for added freshness and crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat rice and chicken in a microwave or skillet, adding a splash of water to prevent the rice from drying out.

FAQs

How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the street corn mixture for an extra kick.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, though they may dry out more easily. Be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, frozen corn works fine. Just ensure it's cooked thoroughly before adding to the dish.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise with dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt or cashew cream, and use a dairy-free cheese like vegan feta.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, the chicken and rice can be prepped ahead of time. Assemble the bowls just before serving to keep everything fresh.

What kind of rice should I use?

Jasmine rice is ideal for its fluffy texture, but white or brown rice also works well. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is a great substitute.

Can I grill the chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet?

Yes, grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor that complements the street corn toppings beautifully.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 15-30 minutes to infuse the flavors. For best results, marinate for 1-2 hours.

How do I make the corn topping even more flavorful?

Grilling the corn before mixing it with the other ingredients adds a smoky depth to the flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the bowl.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

While you can freeze the chicken and rice, the corn topping may lose its texture. It’s best to store the corn mixture separately and add it fresh when reheating.

Conclusion

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a delicious and versatile dish that brings together the best of street corn flavors with hearty chicken and rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, it's a flavorful, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether you customize it with extra toppings or serve it as is, it’s sure to become a new favorite!