If you love bold flavors and hearty meals, this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a must-try! Inspired by classic Mexican street corn, this dish combines juicy, seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy, zesty street corn topping. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with Flavor – Smoky, tangy, and creamy in every bite.
- Easy & Quick – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Customizable – Adjust spice levels, toppings, or add extra veggies.
- Meal Prep Friendly – Stores well for delicious leftovers.
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Rice:
- 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Street Corn Topping:
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Garnishes (Optional):
- Avocado slices
- Sliced jalapeños
- Extra lime wedges
- Hot sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix the chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the seasoning mix onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (165°F internal temperature).
- Remove from heat, squeeze lime juice over the chicken, and let it rest before slicing.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice
- Rinse the rice under cold running water until it becomes clear.
- In a saucepan, bring the chicken broth, salt, garlic powder, and butter to a boil.
- Stir in the rice, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until tender.
- Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Street Corn Topping
- If using fresh corn, grill or sauté it for a slightly charred flavor.
- In a bowl, combine corn, mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and lime juice.
- Stir in crumbled cheese and fresh cilantro.
- Mix well and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
- Divide the cooked rice into serving bowls.
- Top with sliced chicken.
- Spread the creamy street corn mixture over the chicken.
- Add desired garnishes like avocado, jalapeños, or extra lime juice.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Best Tips for Making a Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
- Grill the Chicken – Adds extra smoky flavor.
- Use Fresh Corn – For a more authentic taste, grill the corn before mixing.
- Adjust Spice Levels – Add more chili powder or jalapeños for heat.
- Meal Prep Friendly – Store ingredients separately and assemble fresh for the best texture.
Variations to Try
Spicy Chipotle Version
- Add 1 teaspoon chipotle powder to the chicken seasoning.
- Mix 1 tablespoon adobo sauce into the street corn topping.
Vegetarian Option
- Swap chicken for grilled tofu or black beans.
- Use vegetable broth for cooking the rice.
Low-Carb Alternative
- Replace rice with cauliflower rice.
- Reduce mayonnaise and sour cream in the street corn mix.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 |
| Protein | 38g |
| Carbs | 48g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 5g |
(Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store cooked components separately in airtight containers and assemble when ready to serve.
What’s the best rice for this dish?
Jasmine or basmati rice works best for a light, fluffy texture.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Shred rotisserie chicken and toss it with the seasoning mix for a quick alternative.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat before serving.