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