Introduction
If you love bold street-food flavors but also want something filling and homemade, this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is about to become your new obsession. Inspired by Mexican elote (street corn), this bowl combines juicy seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, creamy cheesy corn, and fresh toppings—all in one satisfying bowl.
It’s:
- Easy enough for weeknights
- Perfect for meal prep
- Packed with protein and flavor
- Totally customizable
Think of it as comfort food that still feels fresh and wholesome.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Chicken
- 1½ lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs for extra juiciness)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ¾ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Juice of ½ lime
Recommended brands: McCormick spices, Pompeian olive oil
For the Street Corn (Elote-Style)
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned & drained)
- 2 tbsp butter
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for lighter option)
- ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Salt to taste
For the Rice
- 1½ cups long-grain white rice (jasmine or basmati rice work great)
- 3 cups water or chicken broth
- ½ tsp salt
Toppings (Optional but Recommended)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Diced avocado
- Extra cotija or feta cheese
- Lime wedges
- Jalapeño slices
- Hot sauce or chipotle sauce
Essential Kitchen Tools & Appliances
- Large skillet or grill pan
- Medium saucepan with lid (for rice)
- Mixing bowls
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Tongs
- Whisk
Preparation Steps (Nice & Easy)
- Marinate the chicken
In a bowl, mix olive oil, spices, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Add chicken and coat well. Let it rest for 10–20 minutes (even 10 minutes helps). - Rinse the rice
Rinse rice under cold water until water runs mostly clear. This keeps it fluffy, not sticky. - Prep toppings
Chop cilantro, slice avocado, crumble cheese, and cut lime wedges. Set aside.
Cooking Instructions
1. Cook the Rice
- Add rice, water (or broth), and salt to a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.
- Turn off heat and let it steam (covered) for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
2. Cook the Chicken
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add marinated chicken and cook 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
- Rest for 5 minutes, then slice or cube.
Secret tip: Don’t move the chicken too much—let it sear for better flavor.
3. Make the Street Corn
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add corn and cook until lightly charred, 4–5 minutes.
- Lower heat and stir in mayo, sour cream, chili powder, lime juice, cheese, and salt.
- Mix until creamy and warm.
Serving Suggestions
Build your bowls like this:
- Rice base
- Sliced chicken
- Creamy street corn
- Toppings: avocado, cilantro, extra cheese
- Finish with a squeeze of lime
Serve with:
- Tortilla chips
- Simple green salad
- Roasted veggies
Additional Tips & Variations
- Meal prep: Keeps well for 4 days in the fridge
- Spicy version: Add chipotle powder or hot sauce
- Healthier swap: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo
- Low-carb: Replace rice with cauliflower rice
- Vegetarian: Swap chicken for black beans or grilled tofu
Nutrition Details (Per Serving – Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 610 kcal |
| Protein | 42 g |
| Carbohydrates | 48 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 780 mg |
Values may vary based on ingredients used.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use frozen corn?
Yes! Just thaw and pat dry before cooking.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Q3: Can I grill the chicken instead?
Absolutely. Grill over medium heat for 6–7 minutes per side.
Q4: What cheese works if I can’t find cotija?
Feta is the best substitute.
Q5: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes—use dairy-free mayo, yogurt, and cheese alternatives.
Wrap-Up
This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl brings together smoky, creamy, fresh, and savory flavors in one easy bowl. It’s inspired by classic Mexican street corn but made practical for everyday home cooking.
Fun fact: Elote has been a popular street snack in Mexico for generations—this bowl is just a modern, meal-friendly twist on that timeless flavor.
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s comforting, colorful, and guaranteed to impress, this one checks every box. 🌽🍗✨
