Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl combines the bold, smoky flavors of Mexican street corn with juicy grilled chicken and fluffy rice. Topped with creamy sauce, cotija cheese, and fresh herbs, this bowl is both satisfying and packed with vibrant textures. It’s perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or a quick, flavorful lunch.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breast or thighsolive oillime juicechili powdergarlic powderpaprika salt and peppercooked white or brown ricecorn kernels (grilled or roasted)mayonnaiselime juicecotija cheesechopped cilantrored onion (optional)jalapeño (optional)hot sauce (optional)

directions

Marinate the chicken in olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.

Grill or pan-sear the chicken until cooked through and golden brown, about 6–7 minutes per side. Let it rest before slicing.

Grill or roast corn kernels until charred and lightly caramelized.

In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and lime juice to create the creamy street corn sauce.

Assemble each bowl with a base of cooked rice.

Top with grilled chicken slices and roasted corn.

Drizzle with the creamy lime mayo.

Sprinkle cotija cheese and chopped cilantro on top.

Add optional toppings like red onion, jalapeño, or hot sauce to taste.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 15 minutesMarinating time: 30 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesAssembly time: 5 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

Swap rice for cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Use chipotle mayo for extra smoky flavor.

Add black beans or avocado for extra protein and creaminess.

Make it vegetarian by substituting grilled tofu for chicken.

Serve cold as a salad bowl for summer picnics.

storage/reheating

Store components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stove before assembling.Reapply sauce and toppings fresh for best texture.

FAQs

Can I use canned corn?

Yes, but grilling or roasting it gives better flavor. Drain and pat dry before cooking.

Is cotija cheese necessary?

It adds authenticity and saltiness, but feta can be a good substitute.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep. Assemble bowls right before serving for freshness.

How spicy is this dish?

The base is mild, and spice can be adjusted with jalapeño or hot sauce.

Can I grill the chicken ahead?

Absolutely, grilled chicken keeps well and adds great flavor when reheated.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure your mayo and seasonings are gluten-free.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, it’s a great shortcut. Just add spices when reheating for extra flavor.

Can kids eat this?

Yes, just leave out spicy toppings for a kid-friendly version.

What kind of rice is best?

White rice, brown rice, or even cilantro lime rice all work well.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Omit cotija or use a dairy-free cheese, and replace mayo with a vegan version.

Conclusion

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl delivers a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors in every bite. It’s customizable, easy to prepare, and full of bold, fresh ingredients that bring the taste of street food into your home. Ideal for busy nights or make-ahead meals, it’s sure to become a favorite go-to dish.