Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

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If comfort food had a summer makeover, the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl would be it. This bowl brings together juicy grilled chicken, charred sweet corn, fluffy white rice, and a tangy drizzle of lime crema that ties everything together. It’s the kind of meal that manages to be both refreshing and satisfying, with just the right amount of spice and crunch.

This dish is inspired by Mexican street corn, also known as elote, but it skips the cob and goes straight into your bowl. It’s easy to prep ahead for lunches, hearty enough for dinner, and adaptable to your favorite toppings like avocado, hot sauce, or extra herbs. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crew, this rice bowl is a flavor-packed win.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal here because they remain juicy and flavorful when grilled or pan-seared. However, boneless chicken breasts also work well if pounded to an even thickness. Marinating the chicken beforehand boosts its flavor, and you can even swap it for shredded rotisserie chicken in a pinch.

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Ingredients for the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Chicken Thighs or Breasts
The star of the bowl, seasoned and cooked until golden for maximum flavor and tenderness.

Corn Kernels
Use fresh corn for the best char, but frozen or canned work well too—just drain and pat dry before sautéing.

Cooked Rice
Jasmine or basmati rice offers a light, fragrant base. Day-old rice works great for meal prepping.

Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt
Forms the base of the crema sauce, bringing tanginess and richness.

Lime Juice
Fresh lime juice adds brightness to the sauce and enhances the overall dish.

Spices (Chili Powder, Paprika, Garlic Powder)
Add smoky warmth and depth to both the chicken and the crema.

Cilantro
Fresh cilantro provides a burst of herbal freshness and color.

Olive Oil
Used for cooking and helps in achieving a nice sear on the chicken and corn.

Salt and Pepper
Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.

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How To Make the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Add the chicken and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Grill or pan-sear the marinated chicken on medium-high heat until fully cooked and slightly charred. Let it rest, then slice into strips or chunks.

Step 3: Sauté the Corn

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed and toss in the corn kernels. Sauté until they begin to brown and develop a roasted, caramelized flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Lime Crema

Whisk together sour cream or Greek yogurt with lime juice, a pinch of chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

Layer cooked rice at the bottom, followed by sliced chicken, corn, and a generous drizzle of lime crema. Garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges for an extra zing.

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Serving and Storing the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Serve this bowl warm, ideally right after assembling, for the best texture and taste. The juicy chicken pairs beautifully with the warm rice and charred corn, while the crema adds a cooling contrast.

For storing, keep each component separate in airtight containers. The chicken and corn can last up to 4 days in the fridge. Reheat them gently before serving. Store the crema in a separate jar and stir before using. This setup also makes weekday lunches a breeze—just assemble when you’re ready to eat.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely. Shredded rotisserie or grilled chicken from a previous meal works great and saves time.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure your spices and sour cream or yogurt are certified gluten-free.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Swap the sour cream or yogurt for a plant-based alternative. Coconut yogurt with lime works surprisingly well.

What veggies go well in this bowl?

Avocado, cherry tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or black beans are all great add-ins for more texture and nutrition.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Definitely. Brown rice or even quinoa can add a nuttier flavor and boost the fiber content.

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Want More Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, you’ll probably enjoy these flavorful dishes too:

• Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet for bold flavor with a comforting finish.
• Chicken and Stuffing Casserole if you’re craving a hearty, oven-baked dish.
• Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe for a creamy southern classic.
• Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot for effortless slow-cooked goodness.
• One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese for cheesy comfort with a twist.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go spicy with the crema or keep it mild? Add extra toppings?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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