The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a culinary delight that brings together the zest of Mexican street corn and the heartiness of grilled chicken over a comforting rice base. It’s a dish that’s versatile, nutritious, and easy to customize. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this bowl promises a burst of flavors with each bite.
For those who love fusion cuisine, this recipe is inspired by the iconic elote. Learn about Mexican Street Corn Dip in a Crock Pot for a deeper appreciation of how traditional ingredients inspire modern dishes. The smoky, tangy flavors of corn work wonders in this rice bowl, blending beautifully with the protein-packed chicken.
If you’re a fan of indulgent yet wholesome meals, you might also enjoy exploring dishes like Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken that bring comfort to your table.
What is a Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?
This dish is a vibrant fusion of flavors and textures, combining:
- Grilled chicken: Smoky and seasoned to perfection.
- Street corn: Charred corn kernels coated with lime juice, mayo, cotija cheese, and chili powder.
- Rice: The neutral base that ties all the flavors together—choose between white, brown, or cauliflower rice.
- Toppings: Avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges enhance the dish with freshness and creaminess.
Whether you’re craving bold flavors or a comforting meal, this bowl checks all the boxes.
Key Ingredients for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
1. Chicken
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
- Marinate in lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika for a deep, smoky flavor.
2. Mexican Street Corn
- Fresh corn is best, but frozen works in a pinch.
- Combine corn with:
- Mayonnaise or sour cream.
- Lime juice.
- Crumbled cotija cheese.
- Chili powder or Tajín seasoning for spice.
3. Rice
- White or brown rice are traditional options.
- Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative, adding olive oil and garlic for flavor.
4. Toppings
- Avocado slices for creaminess.
- Chopped cilantro for freshness.
- Lime wedges for tang.
Step-by-Step of Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- Chicken:
- 2 lbs chicken breasts or thighs.
- Marinade: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, juice of 1 lime.
- Street Corn:
- 4 ears of corn or 2 cups frozen corn.
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise.
- ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese.
- 1 tsp chili powder.
- Rice:
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice.
- Optional: 1 tbsp lime juice and chopped cilantro.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Mix marinade ingredients and coat the chicken. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
- Grill or pan-sear until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
2. Make the Street Corn
- Grill fresh corn until lightly charred. If using frozen, sauté in a hot pan.
- Mix corn kernels with mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice.
3. Cook the Rice
- Prepare rice as per package instructions.
- Optional: Mix cooked rice with lime juice and cilantro for an added flavor boost.
4. Assemble the Bowl
- Start with a base of rice.
- Add layers of street corn and sliced chicken.
- Top with avocado slices, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges.
Variations to Try
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice.
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace chicken with grilled tofu or roasted sweet potatoes.
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or drizzle with chipotle crema.
For another creative rice bowl idea, check out this Mexican Bowl Rice Recipe for more inspiration.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish combines flavor and health:
- Protein: Chicken provides lean protein for muscle growth.
- Fiber: Corn and rice add essential dietary fiber.
- Vitamins: Lime juice and cilantro contribute antioxidants and Vitamin C.
FAQs for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
What is street corn seasoning made of?
Street corn seasoning typically includes:
- Chili powder.
- Lime juice.
- Salt and optional Tajín for a tangy finish.
Can frozen corn be used instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen corn works well. Simply grill or sauté to replicate the smoky flavor of fresh corn.
How long can leftovers be stored?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Conclusion
The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of bold flavors and culinary creativity. Perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep, it brings together smoky chicken, tangy street corn, and comforting rice in one bowl. With endless ways to customize, this bowl is bound to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Whether you’re inspired by traditional street food or exploring new flavors, this recipe will keep you coming back for more. Try it today and elevate your mealtime experience!