This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a fiesta in a bowl—bursting with bold Mexican-inspired flavors. The smoky grilled chicken pairs perfectly with sweet, creamy corn, all served over a fluffy bed of rice that absorbs every delicious drop. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but is simple and quick enough for any weeknight meal.
Inspired by the flavors of elote, the beloved Mexican street corn, this bowl brings together a creamy corn mixture, a tangy lime crema, and fresh cilantro. Whether you’re meal-prepping or feeding the whole family, it’s a versatile and crowd-pleasing recipe. The best part? You can easily swap proteins, add avocado, or spice it up to your liking.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 cup cooked white rice
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1 cup grilled corn kernels (or canned, drained)
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¼ cup mayonnaise
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¼ cup sour cream
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½ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
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1 lime (juiced)
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1 teaspoon chili powder
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Season the chicken breasts with chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Grill or pan-sear on medium-high heat for 6–8 minutes per side or until fully cooked. Let rest before slicing.
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In a bowl, combine grilled corn with mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, half of the cotija cheese, and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Divide cooked rice into 4 serving bowls.
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Top each bowl with sliced chicken and the creamy street corn mixture.
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Garnish with remaining cotija cheese and extra cilantro. Add a lime wedge if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 430 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
A Brief Look at Elote: The Inspiration Behind the Bowl
In Mexico, street vendors serve elote, grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime. It’s a savory, sweet, spicy delight that’s become internationally loved. This bowl reimagines that flavor profile with a modern, convenient twist—served in a bowl with protein-rich chicken and satisfying rice. Instead of munching elote off the cob, you get to enjoy all those flavors in a layered, hearty, fork-friendly format. The transformation is simple yet brilliant, making it easier to meal prep or serve to a crowd.
Why This Recipe Works
Here’s why this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl stands out from the rest:
1. Explosive Flavor Without Complex Steps
Every layer in this bowl is seasoned and well-balanced. The chicken is coated in a smoky spice blend (think chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin), while the corn is creamy, citrusy, and cheesy with a kick. Each bite combines texture and taste in perfect harmony—without needing complex cooking techniques.
2. Ready in 30 Minutes
You don’t need hours to create something memorable. This dish comes together quickly with simple prep and pantry staples. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, impromptu gatherings, or lazy Sundays when you want something comforting but easy.
3. Customizable to Every Diet
Vegetarian? Swap the chicken for grilled tofu or black beans. Gluten-free? You’re already covered. Watching your carbs? Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. This dish is flexible enough for anyone at your table, while still being full of character and heartiness.
4. Meal Prep-Friendly
This bowl isn’t just a one-and-done dish. Each component—chicken, corn mixture, rice, and lime crema—can be made in advance and stored separately. That means you can mix and match, portion for the week, or assemble on the go.
Nutritional Breakdown: What You’re Actually Eating
Let’s break down the health and nutritional highlights:
- Chicken Breast: A lean source of protein that helps build muscle, supports metabolism, and keeps you full longer.
- Grilled Corn: Adds fiber, antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin (great for eye health), and natural sweetness.
- Cotija Cheese: A salty, crumbly Mexican cheese that adds depth and calcium. Use sparingly for a creamy mouthfeel without the heaviness.
- Lime Juice & Cilantro: Fresh herbs and citrus enhance digestion and add brightness to the dish.
- Rice: Choose jasmine, basmati, brown rice, or even quinoa for added fiber and nutrients.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Used in the lime crema for a tangy finish. Greek yogurt can boost protein and cut fat.
Each bowl clocks in around 430–500 calories, depending on how generous your toppings are, and delivers a balance of protein, carbs, healthy fats, and flavor.
Pro Tips to Make the Bowl Even Better
- Grill the Corn If you have time, grilling fresh corn (instead of using canned) brings out a natural char and smoky depth that canned corn just can’t replicate.
- Cook Rice in Broth Instead of water, cook rice in chicken or vegetable broth. It infuses the base with savory flavor and adds richness without extra fat.
- Let the Chicken Rest After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy and tender.
- Adjust Spice to Taste If you love heat, add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or even cayenne to the spice rub or corn mix. For a milder version, reduce the chili powder.
- Fresh Garnishes Matter Don’t skip the cilantro, lime wedges, or avocado. These fresh touches balance the heavier ingredients and brighten the whole bowl.
How to Serve It: Creative Presentation Ideas
You can make the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl the centerpiece of a sit-down dinner or serve it buffet-style for family gatherings. Try these ideas:
- Bowl Bar Party: Lay out all components in separate bowls. Let guests build their own creations.
- Picnic Lunch: Pack individual portions in mason jars for a flavorful, layered meal.
- Taco Tuesday Alternative: Serve the components with tortillas for DIY tacos.
Reader Q&A: Popular Questions About the Recipe
Can I make this bowl dairy-free? Yes! Replace cotija cheese with a plant-based cheese or omit it. Swap mayo and sour cream with vegan alternatives or use avocado crema instead. Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling? Absolutely. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes or until internal temp hits 165°F. You won’t get grill marks, but the seasoning still shines through. What are some vegetarian substitutes for chicken? Try grilled portobello mushrooms, tofu, chickpeas, or jackfruit. Season them just like you would the chicken. Is this freezer-friendly? The individual ingredients (especially rice and chicken) freeze well, but it’s best to make the corn mix fresh due to the mayo and cheese content.
Serving Suggestions: What Goes with a Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?
- Side Salad: A citrus-dressed kale salad adds freshness and crunch.
- Black Bean Soup: A warm, hearty pairing for colder nights.
- Fresh Agua Fresca: Try a watermelon-lime or hibiscus drink for an authentic Mexican vibe.
- Corn Tortillas or Chips: Adds extra texture and scooping potential.
Tweak It Your Way: Variations You’ll Love
- BBQ Twist: Use BBQ sauce instead of lime crema and add pickled onions.
- Taco Bowl: Add shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, and tortilla strips.
- Southwest Style: Mix in black beans, diced tomatoes, or roasted poblano peppers.
A Comfort Bowl with Global Appeal
While this recipe pays tribute to Mexican street food, its universal appeal lies in its comfort-food quality and cross-cultural versatility. Similar dishes can be found in Thai, Indian, and Mediterranean cuisines—where grilled proteins, spiced veggies, rice, and tangy sauces come together in a satisfying bowl. The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl isn’t just a trend. It’s a timeless, nutritious, and joyful way to eat. Whether you’re making it for one or ten, there’s something magical about scooping into layers of flavor and knowing you made it from scratch.
Conclusion
The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is one of those rare recipes that check all the boxes: easy to make, nutritious, bursting with flavor, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned foodie, this dish brings vibrant street-food charm into your kitchen without the fuss. Perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep, it’s a recipe you’ll keep coming back to. From its creamy corn topping to smoky grilled chicken, every bite is an experience. And the best part? It only takes 30 minutes.
