Table of Contents
Introduction
If you’re craving a meal that combines vibrant flavors, creamy textures, and a satisfying crunch, the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is the perfect dish for you. Inspired by the bold flavors of Mexican street corn, also known as elite, this dish elevates grilled chicken and rice with tangy, smoky, and slightly spicy elements. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish that impresses your guests, this recipe has got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to make the perfect Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl—from ingredient selection to step-by-step cooking instructions, tips for customization, and nutritional benefits. By the end, you’ll have a delicious go-to recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
What is a Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?
This dish takes inspiration from Mexican street corn, traditionally grilled and coated with creamy, cheesy, and spicy seasonings. We take these flavors and combine them with grilled or shredded chicken and a bed of seasoned rice, creating a balanced and hearty meal with a delicious mix of sweet, smoky, tangy, and creamy elements.
Key Components of This Dish:
- Grilled Chicken – Juicy, tender, and infused with bold spices.
- Mexican Street Corn – Roasted corn coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce with lime and spices.
- Seasoned Rice – A flavorful base that ties everything together.
- Toppings – Fresh cilantro, lime, cheese, and a drizzle of sauce add the perfect finishing touch.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create this amazing dish:
For the Chicken:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs | 2-3 |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Smoked paprika | 1 tsp |
| Cumin | 1 tsp |
| Chili powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste |
| Lime juice | 1 tbsp |
For the Street Corn Mixture:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Corn (fresh, frozen, or canned) | 2 cups |
| Mayonnaise | ¼ cup |
| Sour cream | ¼ cup |
| Cotija cheese (or feta) | ½ cup |
| Lime juice | 1 tbsp |
| Smoked paprika | ½ tsp |
| Chili powder | ½ tsp |
| Cilantro (chopped) | 2 tbsp |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste |
For the Rice:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked white or brown rice | 2 cups |
| Butter | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Lime zest & juice | 1 tbsp |
| Cumin | ½ tsp |
| Cilantro (chopped) | 2 tbsp |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste |
Optional Toppings:
- Extra cheese (cotija, feta, or cheddar)
- Avocado slices
- Hot sauce
- Pickled onions
- Black beans
- Jalapeños
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and lime juice.
- Coat the chicken evenly with the marinade and let it sit for at least 20 minutes (or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred.
- Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding.
2. Cook the Corn Mixture
- If using fresh corn, grill it for 3-5 minutes per side until slightly charred, then cut the kernels off the cob.
- If using canned or frozen corn, sauté it in a dry pan over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes until golden and slightly charred.
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Fold in the charred corn, crumbled cotija cheese, and chopped cilantro.
3. Prepare the Rice
- In a pan, melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add cooked rice, lime zest, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Remove from heat and mix in chopped cilantro.
4. Assemble the Bowls
- In a bowl, start with a generous scoop of seasoned rice.
- Add grilled chicken slices on top.
- Spoon the Mexican street corn mixture over the chicken.
- Finish with toppings like extra cheese, avocado, pickled onions, or hot sauce.
- Serve with lime wedges and enjoy!
Customization & Variations
Make this dish your own with these modifications:
- Make it Spicier: Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Go Vegetarian: Swap chicken for grilled tofu, black beans, or roasted chickpeas.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace rice with cauliflower rice or lettuce for a street corn chicken salad.
- Extra Protein: Top with a fried egg or mix in some black beans.
Health Benefits of This Dish
This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is not just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients:
- Protein-Packed: Chicken provides high-quality lean protein for muscle growth and repair.
- Rich in Fiber: Corn, rice, and toppings add fiber for digestion and gut health.
- Healthy Fats: Avocado, cheese, and olive oil provide heart-healthy fats.
- Vitamin & Mineral Boost: Cilantro, lime, and spices offer antioxidants and essential vitamins.
Conclusion
The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is the ultimate comfort meal packed with flavor, texture, and nutrition. It’s a dish that is easy to customize, quick to prepare, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a gathering, this recipe is bound to impress.
Try it today, and let us know how you customized it! Share your version in the comments or tag us on social media with your delicious creation. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken works great and saves time.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Cook all components separately and store them in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Assemble before serving.
3. What’s the best cheese substitute if I don’t have cotija?
Feta or Parmesan makes a great alternative.
4. Can I use frozen corn?
Absolutely! Just sauté it to get that charred effect.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store rice, chicken, and corn separately in airtight containers. Reheat before serving.