Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Introduction

If you’re craving a meal that’s both healthy and packed with flavor, say hello to the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl! Imagine the smoky, zesty goodness of Mexican street corn paired with juicy grilled chicken and hearty rice — it’s like a party in a bowl! Perfect for a quick dinner, meal prep, or when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

You don’t need a taco truck to enjoy the bold flavors of Mexican street corn and smoky chicken—just a few pantry staples, fresh toppings, and some kitchen basics (most available on Amazon!) to build the ultimate Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl right at home.

Kitchen Essentials (Get it on Amazon)

• Nonstick skillet or grill pan: for perfectly seared chicken – Shop cookware

• Mixing bowls (set of 3): ideal for prepping corn, chicken, and toppings – See price

• Citrus zester: unlocks fresh lime flavor in seconds – Add to cart

• Measuring spoons and cups: keep seasonings accurate and balanced – Check price

Core Ingredients (Available Online)

• Boneless chicken breast: lean protein base – Buy fresh or frozen

• Corn kernels (canned or frozen): easy, versatile, delicious – Shop now

• Cotija cheese (or feta): salty, crumbly perfection – Get it here

• Smoked paprika and cumin: bold spices for rich depth – See spice set

• Olive oil and mayo (or Greek yogurt): creamy and heart-healthy – Stock up

What Makes This Bowl So Special?

Let’s be honest — it’s hard not to love a dish that combines creamy, tangy street corn with flavorful chicken and fluffy rice. This bowl checks all the boxes: high in protein, loaded with veggies, and customizable for any mood. Whether you’re into spice or keeping it mild, you can tweak it to make it totally your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

These spices give the chicken that smoky, earthy flavor that’s so addicting!

For the Street Corn Mixture

• 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt

• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon lime zest

• 1 tablespoon lime juice

• 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

This mix is creamy, tangy, cheesy, and spicy — basically heaven in every spoonful.

For the Bowl Assembly

• 2 cups cooked brown rice or white rice

• 1 avocado, sliced

• 1/4 cup diced red onion

• Fresh lime wedges for garnish

• Additional cilantro and cotija for topping (optional)

The toppings take the bowl to the next level with freshness and crunch!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Chicken

In a bowl, toss your diced chicken with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is well coated — flavor in every bite is the goal here!

Cooking the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes until fully cooked and golden brown. Stir occasionally to avoid burning and ensure even cooking. Set aside once done.

Pro tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan! Give the chicken space to sear properly.

Making the Street Corn Mixture

In another bowl, combine your corn kernels, mayo (or Greek yogurt if you want a healthier twist), chili powder, lime zest, lime juice, cotija cheese, and chopped cilantro. Mix until everything is creamy and well combined.

Want extra char flavor? Quickly grill or pan-fry the corn before mixing!

Assembling the Bowl

Time for the fun part! Start with a generous scoop of rice, pile on the cooked chicken, add a few big spoonfuls of the street corn mix, lay some avocado slices, sprinkle diced red onion, and finish it off with lime wedges, extra cheese, and cilantro if you’re feeling fancy.

Tips for the Best Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

• Marinate Longer: If you have time, let the chicken marinate for 30 minutes to deepen the flavor.

• Char That Corn: Grill or roast your corn for a more authentic street corn taste.

• Use Fresh Lime: Bottled lime juice doesn’t have the same punch.

Why Brown Rice or White Rice?

Choosing between brown and white rice comes down to personal preference and health goals.

• Brown Rice: Higher in fiber and nutrients, with a slightly nutty flavor.

• White Rice: Softer and quicker to cook, letting the toppings shine more.

Both are great — you literally can’t go wrong!

How to Customize Your Bowl

• Make It Vegetarian: Swap chicken for roasted chickpeas or tofu.

• Add More Heat: A drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper amps up the spice.

• Go Extra Creamy: Double the mayo or Greek yogurt for a richer street corn mix.

Perfect Pairings for Your Rice Bowl

Want to make it a full meal? Pair it with:

• A chilled glass of sparkling water with lime

• A fresh cucumber salad

• Crispy tortilla chips and salsa on the side

Storage and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? No problem!

• Store everything separately in airtight containers.

• Reheat the rice and chicken in the microwave.

• Assemble fresh with toppings when ready to eat.

Pro tip: Avocados brown quickly — slice fresh ones when you’re ready to serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Marinade: A rushed marinade leads to bland chicken.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Dry chicken = sad bowl.

• Drowning the Bowl: Too much mayo or cheese can overpower the flavors.

Nutritional Breakdown

Here’s why you can feel good about devouring this bowl:

• Calories: ~490 kcal per serving

• Protein: High from the chicken

• Fiber: Boosted by brown rice and avocado

• Good Fats: Thanks to olive oil and avocado

Final Thoughts on This Flavor Bomb

The Healthy and Delicious Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is not just another meal — it’s a full-on flavor explosion. It’s easy, versatile, and fits right into busy lifestyles while still delivering restaurant-quality taste. Try it once, and it just might become a regular on your menu rotation!

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?

Absolutely! Shred some rotisserie chicken and season it with a little paprika and cumin to mimic the flavors.

2. What’s a good substitute for cotija cheese?

Feta cheese is a great stand-in — it’s crumbly and salty, just like cotija!

3. Is this recipe good for meal prepping?

Yes! Just store the components separately and assemble fresh to maintain texture.

4. Can I make it spicier?

Definitely! Add diced jalapeños or a squirt of hot sauce to your bowl.

5. How long does the street corn mixture last in the fridge?

It’ll stay good for about 2–3 days in an airtight container.

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