Zesty Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe for Busy Nights

Crafting a mouthwatering street corn chicken rice bowl promises a flavor explosion that’ll transport you straight to vibrant street markets.

Kernels of sweet corn dance alongside tender, seasoned chicken in this irresistible culinary creation.

Zesty lime and creamy spices intermingle, creating a symphony of textures and tastes.

Complex yet simple, this recipe blends traditional Mexican street food inspiration with modern comfort.

Each bite delivers a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and rich elements.

Spice levels can easily adjust to match your personal heat preference.

Gather your ingredients and prepare for a meal that’ll become an instant favorite in your recipe collection.

Street Corn Chicken Bowl That’s Packed With Taste

Quick and Easy Meal Magic: Whip up this street corn chicken rice bowl in under 30 minutes with minimal kitchen skills required.

Flavor Explosion: Packed with bold Mexican-inspired spices and charred corn that delivers a smoky, zesty punch to every single bite.

Customizable Comfort: Swap ingredients effortlessly based on what’s in your fridge – perfect for using leftovers and keeping dinner exciting without extra stress.

Nutritional Powerhouse: Balanced combination of protein from chicken, complex carbs from rice, and fresh vegetables providing a wholesome, satisfying meal that fuels your body deliciously.

Flavorful Chicken Rice Bowl – Ingredients Breakdown

• Chicken: Lean protein source, best when grilled or seasoned with mild spices.
• Black Beans: Rich protein alternative, adds hearty texture and earthy flavor.

• White Rice: Neutral base for the bowl, provides soft foundation for other ingredients.

• Corn Kernels: Sweet and charred corn adds smoky dimension, fresh summer taste.
• Tomatoes: Fresh and juicy component, bright color and light acidity.
• Red Onion: Sharp flavor that adds crisp texture and color contrast.
• Cilantro: Fresh herb with bright, herbal notes that enhance overall flavor.

• Cotija Cheese: Salty Mexican cheese with crumbly texture, traditional street corn topping.
• Sour Cream: Creamy base for lime crema, adds tangy richness.

• Olive Oil: Cooking fat for sautéing corn, adds smooth flavor.
• Lime Juice: Bright, acidic element for crema and overall dish balance.
• Chili Powder: Warm, spicy seasoning for corn.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds deep, smoky flavor profile.
• Cumin: Earthy spice with warm undertones.
• Garlic Powder: Provides subtle aromatic seasoning.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for overall seasoning and flavor enhancement.

Chicken Rice Bowl Street Style Prep

Step 1: Roast Vibrant Corn

Heat a skillet over medium flame.

Toss corn kernels into sizzling olive oil and cook until edges turn golden brown and caramelized.

• Chili powder
• Smoked paprika
• Cumin
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir and transfer roasted corn to a separate plate.

Step 2: Whip Zesty Lime Crema

• Sour cream
• Fresh lime juice
• Garlic powder
• Pinch of salt

Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Taste and adjust tang with additional lime juice if desired.

Step 3: Layer Delicious Bowl Components

Construct the bowl foundation with warm rice.

• Grilled chicken slices
• Roasted corn
• Black beans
• Diced tomatoes
• Chopped red onion
• Crumbled cotija cheese

Step 4: Finish With Creamy Drizzle

Generously pour lime crema over the layered bowl.

Scatter fresh cilantro leaves on top for bright flavor and color.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Dive into your mouthwatering street corn chicken rice bowl immediately while ingredients remain warm and vibrant.

Bowl Prep Tips for Street Corn Chicken Rice

• Achieve perfect corn char by using a dry, hot skillet without oil for deeper caramelization and smoky flavor.
• Thin out lime crema with a splash of milk or water if you prefer a more drizzle-friendly sauce that coats ingredients evenly.
• Replace chicken with grilled shrimp, plant-based protein, or tofu to accommodate different dietary preferences and keep the bowl exciting.
• Prepare components separately and store in airtight containers for up to 3 days, allowing quick assembly of fresh bowls during busy weekdays.
• Mix cotija cheese directly into the rice for an extra burst of salty, tangy goodness that enhances overall taste profile.

Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Stored Right

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping ingredients separate to maintain crispness and prevent sogginess.
• Let ingredients reach room temperature before storing to prevent condensation and bacterial growth.
• Keep street corn chicken rice bowl components fresh for 3-4 days in separate sealed containers.
• Warm rice and chicken separately in microwave or skillet, adding fresh lime crema and cilantro after heating to preserve flavor and texture.

Top Add-Ons for Chicken Rice Bowl

• Spice Up Your Sips: Perfect Beverage Companions
• Crisp Mexican Lager Pairing: Light, refreshing beer cuts through the rich, smoky flavors of the chicken and charred corn, creating a balanced culinary experience.
• Zesty Margarita Match: Tangy lime margarita echoes the lime crema's brightness while complementing the bowl's spicy and creamy elements with a citrusy kick.
• Cool Cucumber Agua Fresca: Smooth, mild drink provides a refreshing contrast to the bold spices and grilled chicken, cleansing the palate between bites.
• Citrus-Infused White Wine Spritzer: Crisp, light wine with subtle citrus notes enhances the dish's complex flavor profile without overwhelming the delicate ingredients.

Chicken Rice Bowl Street-Style Versions

• Vegan Street Corn Bowl: Replace chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh. Swap cotija cheese for dairy-free cashew cheese. Use coconut yogurt instead of sour cream in lime crema.
• Gluten-Free Mexican Rice Bowl: Use cauliflower rice as a base for those avoiding grains. Select gluten-free spices. Choose certified gluten-free seasonings for added safety.
• Spicy Southwest Fusion Bowl: Swap chicken for pulled pork or shredded beef. Add roasted poblano peppers. Include pickled jalapeños for extra heat. Enhance with chipotle lime crema.
• Low-Carb Protein Power Bowl: Replace rice with cauliflower rice. Add extra grilled chicken or steak. Include more roasted vegetables. Use full-fat Greek yogurt for protein boost.

FAQs

• How spicy are the spices in this recipe?

The chili powder and smoked paprika provide a mild, warm heat that isn’t overpowering. If you prefer less spice, reduce the amount or omit the chili powder entirely.

• Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen corn. Thaw and pat it dry before sautéing to ensure proper charring and prevent excess moisture.

• Is cotija cheese necessary for the recipe?

While cotija adds a traditional Mexican flavor, you can substitute with feta cheese or queso fresco if cotija isn’t available. Each cheese will provide a slightly different taste profile.

• What type of chicken works best for this bowl?

Grilled, roasted, or even rotisserie chicken work perfectly. The key is to have well-seasoned, tender chicken slices that complement the other ingredients.

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe

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4.8 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mexican-inspired street corn chicken rice bowls blend zesty flavors with creamy textures for a delightful meal. Juicy grilled chicken, charred corn, and cilantro-lime rice create a perfect balance of comfort and excitement you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Main Protein and Base:

• 2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)

Street Corn and Seasonings:

• 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

Creamy and Finishing Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon sour cream
• 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling chicken)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Ignite a grill pan with olive oil over medium-high temperature, creating a sizzling surface for the chicken. Lavishly coat chicken breasts with a robust blend of salt, pepper, and smoky paprika, ensuring complete coverage.
2. Position the seasoned chicken onto the heated pan, allowing each side to caramelize for approximately 6-7 minutes until the meat reaches perfect doneness. Once cooked, carefully slice the chicken into elegant, thin strips.
3. Transition to the corn preparation by melting butter in a separate pan over medium heat. Introduce fresh corn kernels, letting them dance and char slightly for 3-4 minutes to develop a deep, roasted flavor profile.
4. Enhance the corn with a creamy blend of mayonnaise, sour cream, zesty chili powder, and tangy lime juice. Stir the mixture thoroughly, allowing the ingredients to meld together for an additional 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to achieve a balanced taste.
5. Construct the bowl by laying a foundation of fluffy rice. Artfully arrange the grilled chicken strips across the surface, creating an inviting visual presentation.
6. Crown the bowl with a generous sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese, adding a salty, crumbly texture. Scatter fresh chopped cilantro leaves for a burst of herbal brightness.
7. Complete the dish by serving with additional lime wedges, allowing diners to customize their flavor intensity with a squeeze of citrus.

Notes

• Customize heat levels by adjusting chili powder or adding hot sauce for spice lovers who want an extra kick.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to create a lighter, protein-packed alternative for health-conscious eaters.
• Swap chicken with tofu or grilled portobello mushrooms to make the dish completely vegetarian without losing flavor complexity.
• Prep ingredients ahead of time to speed up cooking process, making this a perfect weeknight meal that looks and tastes restaurant-quality.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 570
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 61 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 34 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg