Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a perfect blend of fresh, smoky, and creamy flavors. Tender, marinated chicken thighs provide a hearty base, while the grilled or sautéed street corn adds a delightful sweetness and smokiness. Topped with creamy Cotija cheese and tangy lime sauce, this rice bowl offers a satisfying and balanced meal. It’s versatile enough to adjust with extra toppings like avocado, black beans, or jalapeños, making it as customizable as you like.

this Recipe

Ingredients

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

For the Chicken:

• 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless

• 1 tbsp lime juice

• 1 tbsp avocado oil

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp cumin powder

• ½ tsp garlic powder or 2 minced garlic cloves

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Street Corn Topping:

• 1 cup sweet corn kernels (grilled, if possible, or frozen)

• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion

• 1 cup sour cream (save half to drizzle on top)

• 2 tbsp mayonnaise

• ½ cup Cotija cheese, crumbled (plus extra for garnish)

• 1 tsp chili powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 lime, cut into wedges

For the Rice and Assembly:

• 3 cups cooked rice

• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Directions

1. Season and marinate the chicken: In a small bowl, combine lime juice, avocado oil, chili powder, cumin powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken thighs with this mixture and let it marinate for 15-30 minutes in the fridge.

2. Cook the chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken thighs for 8-10 minutes per side until fully cooked. Remove from the heat and let the chicken rest before slicing it into thin strips.

3. Prepare the street corn topping: In a mixing bowl, combine the grilled or sautéed corn, red onion, sour cream, mayonnaise, Cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Prepare the rice: Reheat the cooked rice with a splash of water until warm and fluffy.

5. Assemble the bowls: In each bowl, layer the rice, sliced chicken, street corn topping, and garnish with extra Cotija cheese and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

6. Optional toppings: Drizzle extra sour cream and sprinkle Tajín on top for added flavor. You can also include toppings like diced avocado, pico de gallo, or sliced jalapeños for extra texture and spice.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 30 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 50 minutes

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can microwave the rice and chicken, or heat it in a skillet with a small splash of water to prevent it from drying out. The street corn topping can be refrigerated separately, and it’s best to drizzle fresh lime juice over it when reheating for the best flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breast, but keep in mind that it may dry out more easily than chicken thighs. To prevent this, be careful not to overcook the breast meat.

2. Can I use frozen corn for the street corn topping?

Yes, frozen corn works well if fresh corn isn’t available. Be sure to sauté or grill it to bring out a smoky flavor.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, try incorporating chopped jalapeños into the street corn topping or sprinkle some cayenne pepper on top. You can also drizzle hot sauce or sriracha for a spicy kick.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and street corn topping in advance. The chicken can be marinated the night before, and the corn topping can be mixed and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

5. What kind of rice should I use?

You can use any type of rice, but long-grain white rice or jasmine rice are ideal for this dish. You could also substitute with brown rice for a heartier, more nutritious option.

6. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, to make this dish vegetarian, you can replace the chicken with grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Black beans or grilled tofu are also great protein alternatives.

7. How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, you can swap the Cotija cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative or simply omit it. Use a dairy-free sour cream in the street corn topping.

8. What other toppings can I add?

You can get creative with toppings like diced tomatoes, guacamole, shredded lettuce, radishes, or sliced green onions. Pickled jalapeños or a drizzle of creamy ranch dressing could also add a nice twist.

9. Can I grill the chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet?

Yes, grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the rest of the ingredients. Just be sure to cook the chicken thoroughly.

10. How can I add more flavor to the rice?

To infuse extra flavor into the rice, you can cook it in chicken or vegetable broth instead of water. A little lime zest or cilantro can also elevate the rice’s flavor.

Conclusion

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is an ideal recipe for a quick, flavorful, and customizable meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a solo lunch, this dish offers a perfect balance of textures and tastes. The tender chicken, smoky street corn, creamy toppings, and fresh rice come together in a vibrant and satisfying way. Plus, it’s easy to adapt with your favorite toppings and ingredients. Enjoy creating this delicious bowl and make it your own!