Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Looking for a meal that’s both satisfying and bursting with flavor? This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is the perfect combination of zesty street corn, juicy grilled chicken, and fluffy rice—all in one colorful, nutrient-packed dish. Inspired by Mexican street food classics, this bowl is ideal for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and a feast for the eyes and taste buds.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about this delicious recipe. From preparation tips to nutritional value, and answers to the most common questions, this article is a one-stop guide for food lovers who want something both wholesome and irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

• Balanced and Filling: With protein from the chicken, fiber from the corn, and healthy fats from the avocado, it’s a complete meal.

• Bold Flavors: The chipotle crema, lime juice, and fire-roasted corn give this dish a smoky, tangy punch.

• Easy to Customize: Whether you’re keto, dairy-free, or vegetarian, you can tweak this bowl to match your lifestyle.

• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it in advance and enjoy throughout the week.

Ingredients for Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

To prepare this delicious recipe, here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp cumin

• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Corn:

• 1½ cups corn kernels (fire-roasted or grilled)

• 1 tbsp mayonnaise or sour cream

• ½ tsp chili powder

• 1 tbsp crumbled cotija cheese (optional)

• Juice of ½ lime

For the Rice:

• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice

• Zest and juice of 1 lime

• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro

Toppings:

• 1 avocado, diced

• ¼ cup chopped red onion

• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• Fresh cilantro for garnish

• Lime wedges for serving

Chipotle Crema (Optional but Recommended):

• ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

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• 1 tbsp chipotle in adobo (minced)

• Juice of ½ lime

• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Marinate and Cook the Chicken
   In a bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts evenly and let them marinate for at least 20 minutes. Grill or pan-sear the chicken on medium heat for 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Let rest before slicing.

2. Prepare the Corn Mixture
   In a bowl, mix the corn with mayonnaise or sour cream, chili powder, lime juice, and cotija cheese. Toss until well coated and flavorful. Set aside.

3. Season the Rice
   Add lime juice, zest, and chopped cilantro to your cooked rice. Fluff it with a fork to mix thoroughly.

4. Assemble the Bowl
   In a wide, shallow bowl or plate, layer the cilantro-lime rice first. Arrange grilled chicken slices on one side, spoon the street corn next to it, and add toppings like diced avocado, tomatoes, and red onion.

5. Drizzle and Garnish
   Top it off with chipotle crema if using. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Tips for Best Results

• Use Fire-Roasted Corn: This brings out the smoky, grilled flavor that makes street corn so irresistible.

• Don’t Skip the Crema: The chipotle crema adds a creamy, spicy balance that elevates the whole bowl.

• Rest the Chicken: Always let your cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.

Nutritional Benefits

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl provides a balanced ratio of carbohydrates, protein, and fats. The corn adds fiber and antioxidants, while the chicken delivers lean protein. Avocado provides heart-healthy fats, and fresh vegetables contribute essential vitamins. It’s a wholesome meal that fuels your body and satisfies your cravings.

Ways to Customize

• Vegetarian: Substitute grilled chicken with black beans, tofu, or grilled vegetables.

• Low-Carb: Swap rice with cauliflower rice or shredded lettuce.

• Spicy Lovers: Add sliced jalapeños or increase the chipotle for extra heat.

• Dairy-Free: Use vegan mayo and omit cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

How to Store and Meal Prep

This recipe stores well for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Keep the sauce separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness. If meal prepping, portion each ingredient into airtight containers and assemble just before eating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?
   Yes, canned corn works well. Just be sure to drain and dry it before sautéing or roasting to get a bit of char.

2. What’s the best way to grill the chicken?
   Use medium heat and grill for 5–6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

3. Is this dish spicy?
   Mildly spicy. The heat comes from the chipotle crema and chili powder in the corn. Adjust spices to your taste.

4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
   Absolutely. Swap out the mayo and crema for dairy-free versions and skip the cheese.

5. What type of rice works best?
   White rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice are all great choices. Cilantro-lime cauliflower rice is a good low-carb option.

6. How can I make this vegan?
   Use plant-based protein (like tofu), dairy-free crema, and vegan mayo and cheese.

7. Can I freeze it?
   The chicken and rice freeze well, but the corn mixture and toppings are best fresh.

8. How long does it stay fresh in the fridge?
   Stored properly, it lasts up to 4 days. Keep ingredients in separate containers for optimal freshness.

9. Can I serve this cold?
   It’s best warm, but you can enjoy it cold if meal-prepping or on the go.

10. What’s the best topping for extra crunch?
    Crushed tortilla chips, roasted pepitas, or crispy chickpeas make excellent crunchy toppings.

11. Is this recipe gluten-free?
    Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any store-bought sauces or seasonings.

12. Can I make it ahead of time for a party?
    Definitely. Prep all the components a day in advance and assemble right before serving for a vibrant presentation.

Conclusion

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Every bite combines smoky, spicy, tangy, and creamy flavors with vibrant textures that make this bowl totally crave-worthy. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting friends, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

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