Name: Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 tbsp lime juice; 1 tbsp avocado oil; 1 tsp chili powder; ½ tsp garlic powder or 2 minced garlic cloves; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 1 cup sweet corn kernels (grilled if possible, frozen works too); ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion; 1 cup sour cream (reserve half for drizzling); 2 tbsp mayonnaise; ½ cup cotija cheese, crumbled (plus extra for garnish); 1 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 lime, cut into wedges; 3 cups cooked rice; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Jump to Recipe

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a vibrant and flavorful meal that combines tender, spiced chicken thighs with a creamy, tangy street corn topping served over fluffy rice. Inspired by the classic Mexican street food, this dish offers a satisfying balance of smoky, spicy, and fresh flavors in every bite. The grilled corn adds sweetness and a bit of char, perfectly complementing the zesty chicken seasoned with lime and chili powder. The creamy topping with sour cream, mayonnaise, and cotija cheese brings richness that ties everything together beautifully.

Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, this recipe is both comforting and exciting. It offers an easy way to enjoy the delicious flavors of street corn alongside protein-packed chicken and satisfying rice, creating a complete and balanced meal. The fresh cilantro garnish and lime wedges add brightness and a fresh finish, enhancing the overall taste and presentation. This bowl is not only delicious but also customizable and perfect for sharing with family or friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with vibrant Mexican-inspired flavors and textures
Easy to prepare with simple ingredients and minimal fuss
Combines juicy, well-seasoned chicken with creamy street corn topping
Balanced and filling meal with protein, veggies, and carbs
Perfect for meal prep or casual family dinners

Ingredients

For the Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Lime juice
Avocado oil
Chili powder
Garlic powder or minced garlic cloves
Salt
Black pepper

For the Street Corn Topping

Sweet corn kernels (grilled or frozen)
Thinly sliced red onion
Sour cream
Mayonnaise
Cotija cheese, crumbled
Chili powder
Salt and pepper
Lime wedges

For the Rice and Assembly

Cooked rice
Fresh cilantro

Variations

Use chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option
Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter topping
Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat
Use cauliflower rice or quinoa for a low-carb alternative
Top with avocado slices or pico de gallo for added freshness

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix lime juice, avocado oil, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken thighs and coat well. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Cook chicken thighs for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through and nicely browned. Remove and let rest.

Step 3: Prepare the Street Corn Topping

In a bowl, combine grilled corn kernels, thinly sliced red onion, sour cream, mayonnaise, crumbled cotija cheese, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Divide cooked rice among bowls. Slice or chop chicken and place on top. Spoon generous amounts of street corn topping over chicken. Drizzle with remaining sour cream.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle extra cotija cheese and fresh cilantro over bowls. Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Grill corn on the cob for best flavor, but frozen corn works well too
Let chicken rest a few minutes after cooking to retain juices
Adjust chili powder to control heat level to your preference
Use a non-stick skillet or grill pan for even cooking and easy cleanup
For extra smoky flavor, finish chicken on a hot grill or under a broiler

How to Serve

Serve these bowls warm as a complete meal perfect for lunch or dinner. Pair with a fresh green salad, guacamole, or warm tortillas to round out the meal. Lime wedges add a bright citrus kick that enhances all the flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store chicken, rice, and street corn topping separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

Cooked chicken and rice can be frozen separately for up to 2 months. It’s best to prepare the street corn topping fresh.

Reheating

Reheat chicken and rice gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add fresh lime juice and cilantro after reheating to revive flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used but may cook faster and be less juicy.

2. Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

3. How do I grill corn if I don’t have a grill?

You can roast corn in the oven or cook it on a stovetop grill pan.

4. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Substitute chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh and use vegan mayo and sour cream alternatives.

5. What if I don’t have cotija cheese?

Feta cheese is a good substitute with similar crumbly texture and tang.

6. Can I use canned corn?

Yes, drain and rinse canned corn before using.

7. How spicy is this dish?

Mildly spicy from chili powder; adjust seasoning to taste.

8. Can I meal prep this dish?

Yes, store components separately and assemble before serving.

9. How long does marinating chicken take?

At least 15 minutes, but longer marinating (up to 2 hours) enhances flavor.

10. Can I add other toppings?

Yes, avocado, sliced jalapeños, or fresh salsa are great additions.

Conclusion

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a flavorful and satisfying meal that brings together juicy, seasoned chicken and creamy, tangy street corn topping over fluffy rice. Simple to prepare yet bursting with bold flavors, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests. Its fresh ingredients, balanced nutrition, and customizable nature make it a delicious and versatile choice that is sure to become a family favorite.