Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a vibrant and flavorful dish combining smoky, charred street corn with tender chicken and fluffy rice. It offers a delicious harmony of textures and bold, zesty flavors in a quick, easy, and nutritious meal perfect for any weeknight or gathering.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Protein
- Chicken breasts or thighs (about 1 lb), seasoned with chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper
Vegetables & Base
- Fresh corn kernels from 2 ears of corn (or 1½ cups frozen corn)
- Cooked white or brown rice (about 2 cups cooked)
- Cilantro, chopped (¼ cup)
- Lime wedges (2-3 wedges)
Sauce
- Mayonnaise (¼ cup)
- Sour cream (¼ cup)
- Fresh lime juice (1 tablespoon)
- Chili powder (1 teaspoon, divided)
- Pinch of salt
Toppings
- Queso fresco or feta cheese, crumbled (¼ cup)
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs evenly with chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a bit of oil. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Char the corn: If using fresh corn on the cob, grill or pan-sear it until lightly charred and smoky, then cut off the kernels. If using frozen corn, sauté in a hot pan with a little oil until it begins to brown and develop smoky spots.
- Make the creamy sauce: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to form a tangy, creamy sauce that will coat the corn.
- Cook rice: Prepare white or brown rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff with a fork to create a light, airy base for the bowl.
- Assemble the bowl: Start with a generous scoop of warm rice in a bowl. Top with sliced chicken, then spoon over the smoky corn mixed with the creamy sauce. Finish with crumbled queso fresco or feta and fresh cilantro leaves. Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over before eating.
Notes
- Use fresh corn if possible for the best sweetness and authentic flavor.
- Don’t skip the lime; it adds a vital brightness and balances the richness.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to retain juiciness and tenderness.
- Char the corn well to bring out smoky depth and texture.
- Adjust the chili powder or add jalapeños for your preferred spice level.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximate)
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: street corn, chicken rice bowl, Mexican street food, smoky corn, creamy sauce, quick dinner, healthy bowl