One of my fondest childhood memories is watching my mom prepare meals that filled the house with irresistible aromas, especially her twist on Mexican street corn, or elote. I loved sneaking bites of the creamy, smoky, and tangy corn straight from the cob. Soon, I realized this street food could be a full meal, and that’s how the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl was born. The first time I combined grilled chicken, sweet corn, and rice, it was a perfect balance of flavors and textures, and quickly became a favorite. Now, I’m excited to share this easy, flavorful Street Corn Chicken Bowl Recipe with you!
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What Makes the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl So Special?
The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is not just your average chicken and rice dish. What sets it apart is the vibrant combination of flavors that come together to create an irresistible meal. Here’s what makes this bowl so special:
A Delicious Fusion of Flavors
The Street Corn Rice Bowl brings together several layers of flavor that blend perfectly. The grilled chicken provides a savory, hearty base, while the street corn adds a sweet, smoky element. The tangy lime juice, creamy cotija cheese, and a sprinkle of chili powder bring the dish to life, creating a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and tangy. Every bite offers a new combination of textures, from the tender chicken to the crispy corn and fluffy rice, making it a satisfying and exciting meal.
The Convenience of One Bowl
One of the best parts about this dish is that it’s all served in one bowl. You don’t need to worry about side dishes or complicated preparations. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a complete meal that is both hearty and filling. The Street Corn Chicken Bowl Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep because it’s quick to make and easy to store for later use.
Versatility and Customization
The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is incredibly versatile. You can tweak the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Want a spicier kick? Add some jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. Looking to make it vegetarian? Simply swap the chicken for grilled veggies or tofu. The options are endless, making this dish a perfect blank canvas for your culinary creativity.
Essential Ingredients for the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s go over the essential ingredients that make up this delicious Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, with just a handful of ingredients coming together to create an unforgettable meal.
For the Chicken
- Chicken Thighs: I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe. They are tender, juicy, and flavorful, which makes them perfect for this dish. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken breasts, but I find thighs to be more flavorful.
- Lime Juice: The acidity of lime juice helps tenderize the chicken while adding a fresh, tangy flavor that brightens up the entire bowl.
- Avocado Oil: I use avocado oil to cook the chicken as it has a high smoke point and a mild flavor. However, you can substitute it with olive oil or vegetable oil if necessary.
- Chili Powder and Cumin Powder: These spices add warmth and depth to the chicken, infusing it with earthy, smoky notes.
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds a subtle savory element, though you can substitute it with fresh garlic cloves if preferred.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
For the Street Corn Topping
- Sweet Corn: Whether you use fresh or frozen corn, grilling it or sautéing it adds a smoky flavor that elevates the dish. If using frozen corn, just sauté it in a pan to get it warm and slightly crispy.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a touch of crunch and sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the other ingredients.
- Sour Cream and Mayonnaise: These two ingredients combine to create a creamy, tangy base for the street corn topping. You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- Cotija Cheese: This crumbly, salty cheese is essential in making the street corn topping rich and savory. If you can’t find cotija, feta or queso fresco are good alternatives.
- Chili Powder: A sprinkle of chili powder enhances the smoky flavor and gives the corn mixture an extra layer of spice.
- Salt, Pepper, and Lime Wedges: Season the street corn mixture to taste, and don’t forget to add lime wedges for a final burst of freshness.
For the Rice and Assembly
- Cooked Jasmine Rice: I prefer using jasmine rice for its soft, fragrant texture, but you can easily substitute it with brown rice, cauliflower rice, or any rice of your choice.
- Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds color and a burst of herbal freshness that brings the entire dish together.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Perfect Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Now that you have all your ingredients, it’s time to make your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. Follow these steps for a foolproof, flavorful dish:
Season the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of lime juice, avocado oil, chili powder or Peri Peri Seasoning, cumin powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This marinade is the key to infusing the chicken with flavor and tenderness. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15-30 minutes in the refrigerator so the flavors can soak in.
Cook the Chicken
Once the chicken is marinated, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook for 8-10 minutes on each side, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, and then slice it into strips or chunks.
Prepare the Street Corn Topping
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the street corn topping. If using fresh corn, grill it until it’s slightly charred. Alternatively, you can sauté frozen corn in a hot skillet for a few minutes to warm it up and add a little crispness. In a mixing bowl, combine the grilled corn, red onion, sour cream, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, and a sprinkle of chili powder. Add salt, pepper, and lime juice to taste. This creamy, tangy topping is what makes the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl irresistible.
Prepare the Rice
If you’re using leftover rice, simply reheat it with a splash of water to keep it fluffy. You can microwave it or warm it up in a pan over low heat. Freshly cooked rice works perfectly as well, so feel free to use what’s available.
Assemble the Bowls
To assemble the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, start with a base of warm rice in each bowl. Top the rice with sliced chicken, a generous spoonful of the street corn mixture, and a sprinkle of extra cotija cheese. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an extra burst of freshness. For an added touch, you can drizzle some extra sour cream on top and even add a sprinkle of chili powder or Tajín for more flavor.
Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Ingredients
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 – frozen corn works too
- 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
Instructions
Season and marinate the chicken:
- In a bowl, combine lime juice, avocado oil, chili powder, cumin powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken thighs and marinate for 15-30 minutes in the fridge.
Cook the chicken:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken thighs for 8-10 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet, let it rest, and then slice it into chunks or strips.
Prepare the street corn topping:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the grilled or sautéed corn, thinly sliced red onion, sour cream, mayonnaise, crumbled cotija cheese, and a sprinkle of chili powder. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lime juice to taste.
Prepare the rice:
- If using cold or leftover jasmine rice, reheat it with a splash of water to keep it fluffy.
Assemble the bowls:
- Start with a base of rice in each bowl, top with sliced chicken, a generous spoonful of the street corn mixture, extra cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges and a drizzle of extra sour cream if desired.
Notes
- For a smoky flavor, grill the corn instead of sautéing it.
- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor in both the chicken marinade and the street corn topping.
- If you prefer extra heat, add chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the corn mixture.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Char the Corn for Extra Flavor
Grilling or charring the corn adds a smoky depth that enhances the overall flavor of the dish. If you don’t have a grill, you can achieve a similar effect by cooking the corn in a hot skillet until it’s lightly charred.
Use Fresh Lime Juice
Lime juice is essential to balancing the richness of the sour cream and mayo in the street corn topping. Fresh lime juice is much more vibrant than bottled juice, so always opt for the real thing when possible.
Add Extra Heat
For those who love spice, consider adding chopped jalapeños, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or even a drizzle of hot sauce to the street corn topping. This will give your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl a fiery kick.
Extra Topping Ideas
- Diced Avocado or Guacamole: Adds creaminess and a rich flavor.
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro add a burst of freshness.
- Sliced Jalapeños: For a spicy, tangy element.
- Shredded Lettuce: Adds crunch and lightness to the dish.
- Radish Slices: Bring a mild peppery crunch.
- Hot Sauce or Sriracha: For those who crave extra heat.
Conclusion
The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a meal that combines comfort and excitement in every bite. With its flavorful chicken, creamy corn topping, and customizable toppings, it’s a dish that satisfies all your cravings. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun dish to share with friends, this Street Corn Chicken Bowl Recipe is sure to be a hit. Don’t hesitate to get creative with the ingredients, and enjoy making this delicious Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe your own.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What goes in a chicken and rice bowl?
A chicken and rice bowl typically includes a base of rice, usually paired with grilled or cooked chicken. Additional toppings can include vegetables, sauces, cheese, and seasonings. The combination creates a balanced and customizable meal, offering protein, carbs, and flavor in one dish.
What kind of rice is used in rice bowls?
Common types of rice used in rice bowls include jasmine rice for its fragrant and soft texture, or brown rice for a heartier, whole-grain option. You can also use cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. The choice of rice depends on your dietary preferences and desired texture.
What is the difference between elote and Mexican street corn?
Elote, also known as Mexican street corn, refers to grilled corn on the cob slathered in a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, lime, chili powder, and cotija cheese. While “elote” typically refers to the corn on the cob, “Mexican street corn” can also refer to the off-the-cob variation often used in bowls and salads. Both feature the same iconic flavors but in different forms.
What seasonings go on street corn?
Street corn is seasoned with chili powder, lime juice, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese. Some variations may also include garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper for additional flavor. These seasonings create a smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy profile that elevates the corn.
What is the white stuff on street corn?
The white stuff on street corn is typically mayonnaise or sour cream, which is used to coat the corn and give it a creamy texture. The mayonnaise acts as a binder for the spices, helping them adhere to the corn while adding richness. Some variations use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative.
What is the best seasoning for chicken?
The best seasoning for chicken often includes a combination of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and ground black pepper. For added depth of flavor, chili powder, cumin, and dried herbs like thyme or rosemary can be incorporated. The seasoning should enhance the natural taste of the chicken without overpowering it.
