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Flavor-packed Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Flavor-packed Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

The Flavor-packed Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl combines juicy marinated chicken, smoky and creamy street-style corn, and fluffy rice for a vibrant, Mexican-inspired meal that’s perfect for any day. Enjoy a balance of smoky, tangy, and savory flavors in one bowl that’s easy to prepare, customizable, and great for meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs (choose your preferred cut)

Corn Mixture

  • 2 cups fresh corn kernels
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • Salt, to taste

Rice Base

  • 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)

Marinade/Spices

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Toppings and Garnishes

  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/3 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Marinate the chicken breasts or thighs in this mixture for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop. Grill or pan-sear the chicken over medium-high heat until cooked through and nicely charred on the outside, about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness. Let rest before slicing or dicing.
  2. Cook the Corn: While the chicken cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add fresh corn kernels and sauté until they start to caramelize and brown slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, coating the corn well to recreate the tangy, creamy street corn flavor.
  3. Prepare the Rice: If not already cooked, prepare rice according to package instructions. Once done, fluff with a fork to keep the grains light and airy, ready to absorb the toppings.
  4. Assemble the Bowl: Begin with a base layer of cooked rice in your serving bowl. Top with sliced or diced marinated chicken, then spoon over generous amounts of the creamy street corn mixture. Finish by sprinkling fresh chopped cilantro and crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese over the top for brightness and contrast.

Notes

  • Marinate chicken for at least 15 minutes or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
  • Use fresh corn for the best sweetness and texture; frozen corn can be used but should be thawed and drained well.
  • Lime juice is essential as it brightens the dish and balances richness.
  • Grill the chicken if possible for a smoky char that complements the corn.
  • Adjust the spice level by increasing chili powder or adding jalapeño or hot sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: street corn chicken, mexican chicken bowl, rice bowl recipe, easy weeknight dinner, gluten free dinner, grilled chicken bowl