This Flavor-Packed Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is everything you love about Mexican street corn (a.k.a. elote) but in a hearty, satisfying meal. Imagine smoky grilled chicken, buttery, charred corn, and fluffy, spiced rice, all tied together with a creamy, zesty sauce. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, tangy, and cheesy, making every bite an explosion of flavor. Bonus? It’s super easy to throw together for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or even a fun dinner party.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with bold flavors – smoky, creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of spice.
- Easy to customize – switch up the protein, add more veggies, or make it spicier.
- Perfect for meal prep – stays fresh and delicious for days!
- One-bowl goodness – minimal dishes, maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients for a street corn-inspired meal that will rock your taste buds!
- Chicken breast or thighs – Juicy and flavorful, especially when grilled or pan-seared.
- Corn kernels – The star of the show! Grilled or charred for that classic street corn taste.
- Cooked rice – Fluffy and perfect for soaking up all the amazing flavors.
- Cotija or feta cheese – Adds a salty, creamy finish (or swap for Parmesan!).
- Lime juice – Brightens everything up with a zesty kick.
- Garlic & onion powder – Essential for layering in extra depth.
- Chili powder & smoked paprika – Bring the smoky, slightly spicy street corn vibes.
- Mayo & sour cream – The dream team for a creamy, tangy sauce.
- Fresh cilantro – A must for freshness and a pop of color.
- Jalapeño (optional) – If you love a little heat!
- Olive oil or butter – Helps get that delicious golden char on the corn.
📌 Note: Full ingredient list with measurements is in the recipe card at the bottom!
How to Make the Flavor-Packed Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken with chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and lime juice. Grill or pan-sear until golden and fully cooked, then slice or shred.
Step 2: Char the Corn
In a hot skillet, add butter or olive oil, then toss in the corn. Let it sizzle and char for a few minutes until golden and slightly caramelized.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Mix together mayo, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and a little garlic powder. This is what makes it taste like classic street corn!
Step 4: Assemble the Bowl
Layer your bowl with fluffy rice, grilled chicken, and charred corn. Drizzle that creamy sauce all over, then sprinkle with cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and diced jalapeño for a pop of heat.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
Give it a good mix, grab a spoon, and dig into pure flavor-packed bliss. 😍
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use rotisserie chicken – A major time-saver if you’re in a hurry!
- Don’t skip charring the corn – It’s what gives this dish that smoky street corn magic.
- Customize the spice level – Add more chili powder, jalapeños, or even a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Meal prep friendly – Store everything separately and assemble when ready to eat.
How to Serve
This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is amazing on its own, but here are some fun ways to switch it up:
- Make it a taco! Spoon everything into warm tortillas for a delicious twist.
- Turn it into a salad – Swap the rice for chopped lettuce and add some avocado.
- Pair it with tortilla chips for extra crunch and scoopability.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep everything in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing
The chicken and rice can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. The corn and sauce are best fresh!
Reheating
Microwave the chicken and rice until warm, then add the sauce and toppings fresh for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes! Just thaw it first and char it in a hot skillet to bring out that roasted flavor.
What’s the best rice to use?
Jasmine, basmati, or even brown rice work great. Quinoa is also a fun option!
Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the mayo and sour cream for dairy-free alternatives and skip the cheese or use a vegan substitute.
How can I make this vegetarian?
Easy! Swap the chicken for black beans, chickpeas, or grilled tofu. Still just as delicious!
And there you have it—your new go-to rice bowl that’s bursting with street corn flavor and juicy chicken goodness! 🍽️ Whether you’re making this for meal prep, a quick dinner, or a fun twist on taco night, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.
Final Thoughts 🌽🍗
This Flavor-Packed Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is everything you want in a meal—bold, creamy, smoky, and packed with layers of flavor. It’s an easy, satisfying dish that brings all the goodness of Mexican street corn straight to your dinner table in a hearty, wholesome way.
Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something insanely delicious, this recipe is a total game-changer. Plus, it’s super versatile—customize it to your liking, add your favorite toppings, and make it as mild or as spicy as you want.
Now it’s your turn! Try this recipe and let me know how it turned out. Did you add your own twist? Snap a pic and share it—I’d love to see your creations!
✨ Enjoy, and happy cooking! ✨ 😍🔥
Print
Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Flavor-Packed Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is bursting with bold, smoky, creamy, and zesty flavors inspired by Mexican street corn (elote). Featuring grilled chicken, charred corn, fluffy rice, and a creamy, tangy sauce, this easy one-bowl meal is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a satisfying family dinner. Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s a dish that packs a punch of flavor while staying simple and customizable!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Tender and juicy, best when grilled or pan-seared.
- Chili powder & smoked paprika – Adds smoky depth and mild heat.
- Garlic powder & onion powder – Enhances flavor.
- Lime juice – Brightens the dish with a citrusy zing.
- Olive oil – Ensures even cooking and adds richness.
- Salt & black pepper – Essential for seasoning.
For the Charred Corn:
- Corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned) – Charring enhances sweetness and flavor.
- Butter or olive oil – Helps caramelize the corn.
- Chili powder – Infuses subtle heat.
For the Rice:
- Cooked jasmine, basmati, or brown rice – Fluffy and perfect for absorbing flavors.
- Chicken broth (optional) – Adds extra depth to the rice.
For the Creamy Sauce:
- Mayonnaise & sour cream – Creates a creamy, tangy base.
- Lime juice – Adds brightness and balances richness.
- Garlic powder – Boosts flavor.
- Chili powder or cayenne – Optional, for a little heat.
- Cotija or feta cheese – Gives a salty, creamy finish.
Toppings:
- Fresh cilantro – Adds a herby freshness.
- Diced jalapeño (optional) – For extra heat.
- Crumbled Cotija cheese – Extra creamy, salty goodness.
- Lime wedges – A final squeeze enhances the flavors.
📌 Note: Full ingredient measurements are in the recipe card at the bottom!
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, olive oil, and lime juice.
- Coat the chicken evenly with the spice mix and let it marinate for 15 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
- Grill or pan-sear over medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, until fully cooked. Let rest before slicing.
Step 2: Char the Corn
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat.
- Add butter (or olive oil) and corn kernels, letting them sit for a minute before stirring to get a nice char.
- Season with chili powder and a pinch of salt, then cook for another 3-5 minutes until golden brown.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
- If not already cooked, prepare the rice according to package instructions.
- Use chicken broth instead of water for extra flavor (optional).
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, sour cream, lime juice, garlic powder, and chili powder until smooth.
- Stir in crumbled Cotija or feta cheese.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowl
- Start with a base of fluffy rice in each bowl.
- Add sliced grilled chicken and charred corn.
- Drizzle the creamy street corn sauce generously over everything.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced jalapeño, extra cheese, and a lime wedge.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
- Mix everything together and dive into this smoky, creamy, and satisfying meal! 🌽🔥
Notes
- Short on time? Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
- Want more spice? Add extra jalapeño, cayenne, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Make it vegetarian: Swap chicken for black beans, chickpeas, or grilled tofu.
- Storage: Keep components separate for the best results when reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: ~520 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
