Name: Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked white or brown rice; 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned); ¼ cup mayonnaise; ¼ cup sour cream; 1 tablespoon lime juice; ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese; ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro; Optional: diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, hot sauce

Inspired by Mexican street corn, this chicken rice bowl packs bold flavors, vibrant colors, and satisfying textures into one crave-worthy dish. Juicy grilled chicken rests on a bed of fluffy rice, topped with charred corn, tangy lime crema, crumbled cotija cheese, and a dusting of chili powder. It’s everything you love about elote, turned into a hearty meal.

Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or hosting a laid-back dinner, the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl brings freshness and indulgence in every bite. It’s as easy to make as it is to love, and you can customize it endlessly with extra toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or a sprinkle of cilantro.

What Kind of Corn Should I Use?

Fresh corn on the cob is ideal here, grilled until it develops a nice char and smoky sweetness. But if you’re short on time, frozen corn kernels work just as well—just roast them in a skillet until golden. Canned corn can also be used, but drain and dry it thoroughly before toasting to avoid sogginess.

Ingredients for the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

2 cups cooked white or brown rice
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
1 tablespoon lime juice
¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as a sub)
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Optional: diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, hot sauce

How To Make the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Step 1: Marinate and Cook the Chicken

Combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Coat chicken breasts and let marinate for 15 minutes. Grill or pan-cook over medium heat until fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes per side. Let rest, then slice.

Step 2: Char the Corn

In a hot skillet, add the corn and cook undisturbed until slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Lime Crema

Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, and lime juice in a small bowl. Adjust to taste with extra lime or a pinch of salt.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

Divide rice into bowls. Top with sliced chicken, charred corn, a drizzle of lime crema, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese. Garnish with cilantro, and add optional toppings like avocado or jalapeño if desired.

How to Serve and Store This Flavor-Packed Bowl

Serve the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl warm for the most comforting experience. It makes a perfect weeknight dinner or meal prep lunch. You can prep the ingredients ahead and assemble just before serving.

To store, keep each component (rice, chicken, corn, crema) in separate containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. When ready to eat, reheat the rice and chicken, then add the crema and toppings fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works wonderfully and saves time.

What rice works best?

Both white and brown rice are great. For added flavor, try cilantro lime rice.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Substitute the mayo and sour cream with dairy-free versions, and use a vegan cheese or skip it entirely.

How spicy is this recipe?

The base recipe is mild. Add jalapeños or hot sauce if you want heat.

Can I grill the corn instead of charring it in a pan?

Absolutely! Grilled corn gives even more authentic elote flavor.

What other toppings go well?

Try black beans, pickled onions, crushed tortilla chips, or shredded lettuce for extra crunch and texture.

Want More Bowl Ideas With Bold Flavor?

If this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl has you craving more, check out these reader favorites:

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s easy to find next time you’re meal planning.

And I’d love to hear how your bowl turned out! Did you go spicy or keep it mild? Add extra cheese or swap in Greek yogurt?

Tag me or comment with your version. Let’s make dinner better together.

For daily recipes and more inspiration, visit my Pinterest at Nina Dishes.

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 2 bowls

Print Recipe

Description

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl combines the smoky, creamy, tangy essence of Mexican street corn with tender grilled chicken and fluffy rice. It’s a satisfying, meal-prep-friendly dish that bursts with flavor and offers room for delicious customizations.