If you’re craving something hearty, flavorful, and just a little indulgent, this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is exactly what you need! It’s got everything: tender, well-seasoned chicken, creamy and smoky street corn, fluffy rice, and a mix of toppings that add crunch, spice, and freshness. This is the kind of meal that feels restaurant-quality but is surprisingly easy to make at home.
Whether you’re looking for a new weeknight dinner idea, a meal prep favorite, or just an excuse to eat a big bowl of deliciousness, this dish has you covered. And the best part? It’s completely customizable—you can swap out ingredients, add extra toppings, or make it as spicy (or mild) as you like!
So, let’s get into it. I’ll walk you through every step, from choosing the right ingredients to assembling the perfect bowl. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll be so ready to make this dish! Plus, did you know corn is packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants? Learn more about its health benefits here.
What Makes This Bowl So Amazing?
- Bold & Smoky Flavors – The chicken is seasoned with a delicious mix of chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic, and cumin, giving it that slightly smoky, Tex-Mex flavor we all love.
- Creamy Street Corn Goodness – Inspired by elote, the famous Mexican street corn, this corn is charred, then tossed in a creamy, tangy sauce with lime juice and Cotija cheese.Want to make it extra creamy? Check out this creamy mushroom chicken recipe for more sauce ideas!
- Fluffy, Flavorful Rice – Rice acts as the perfect base, soaking up all the flavors and bringing the bowl together.
- Toppings Galore! – Avocado, black beans, jalapeños, pico de gallo—so many ways to make this dish your own!
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a big batch, store the components separately, and enjoy easy meals all week long.
Let’s break it down step by step.
Ingredients & Substitutions
For the Chicken
- Chicken breasts or thighs – I like using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness, but breasts work great too.
- Olive oil – For cooking and keeping the chicken nice and moist
- Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt & pepper to taste
Substitutions:
- Want a faster option? Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead! how to best use a rotisserie chicken here.
- Feeling adventurous? Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp or seasoned tofu for a vegetarian twist.
For the Street Corn
- Corn – Fresh, frozen, or canned all work fine. If you’re using frozen, thaw it first. If using canned, drain and rinse it well.
- Mayonnaise & sour cream – The base of the creamy sauce. (You can sub Greek yogurt for a healthier option!)
- Cotija cheese – Crumbly, salty, and slightly tangy. Feta is a good substitute if you don’t have Cotija.
- Lime juice – Adds brightness and balances out the richness.
- Chili powder & smoked paprika – A little spice for that classic elote flavor.
Want it spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne or drizzle on some hot sauce at the end!
For the Rice
- White rice – The classic choice, but feel free to use brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice if you want a lighter option.
- Lime juice & cilantro – Optional, but they add a fresh, zesty kick!
Toppings & Extras (A.K.A. The Fun Part!)
This is where you can get creative! Here are some great add-ons:
- Avocado or guacamole – Creamy, rich, and always a good idea.
- Pico de gallo – Adds freshness and a little zing.
- Black beans – Extra protein and fiber for a hearty meal.
- Jalapeños – For those who love a spicy kick.
- Tortilla strips or crushed chips – A little crunch makes everything better!
- Hot sauce or chipotle aioli – Drizzle on top for even more flavor.
How to Make the Ultimate Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by cooking your rice according to the package instructions. If you’re making cilantro lime rice, stir in some fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro at the end.
Pro tip: If you have extra time, toast the rice in a little butter before cooking to add extra depth of flavor!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the seasoning mix all over the chicken.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it’s fully cooked (165°F internal temperature).
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
Want to grill it instead? Go for it! Grilling adds an extra layer of smoky flavor.
Step 3: Make the Street Corn
- If using fresh corn, grill or sauté it until slightly charred. If using canned or frozen corn, dry it well and toast it in a skillet for a similar effect.
- In a bowl, mix together:
- 2 tablespoons mayo
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- Juice of half a lime
- ¼ cup crumbled Cotija cheese
- Toss the warm corn with the sauce, then set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
Now for the best part—putting it all together!
- Start with a base of fluffy rice.
- Add a generous serving of sliced chicken.
- Spoon over that creamy street corn mixture.
- Top with avocado, pico de gallo, black beans, and jalapeños.
- Finish with a sprinkle of extra Cotija cheese, a squeeze of lime, and a drizzle of hot sauce.
Looking for more Mexican-inspired dishes? Try this guide on corn vs. flour tortillas for more meal ideas!
Cue happy food dance!
Toppings & Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add more jalapeños or a drizzle of chipotle aioli.
- Lighter Version: Swap rice for lettuce and make it a street corn chicken salad!
- Creamier Street Corn: Mix in mashed avocado for an extra-rich version.
- Extra Cheesy: Add shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar on top!
How to Store & Meal Prep
This dish makes amazing leftovers!
- Store: Keep everything in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm up the chicken and rice, then add fresh toppings before serving.
Meal Prep Tip: Double the batch and use the chicken and street corn in tacos, wraps, or salads later in the week!
Wondering how long your leftovers will last? Read this guide on rotisserie chicken storage to keep your food fresh!
Final Thoughts: Time to Dig In!
And there you have it—the ultimate Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl that’s smoky, creamy, fresh, and totally satisfying! Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner, meal prep, or a weekend feast, this bowl is guaranteed to be a hit.
And don’t forget—customize, customize, customize! Add your favorite toppings, play around with flavors, and make it your own.
Now, grab a fork (or a big spoon) and enjoy every bite.