This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is an explosion of flavors and textures, from the tender chicken to the sweet and smoky corn, all brought together with a creamy, tangy sauce. The cotija cheese adds a savory depth, while the fresh cilantro offers a burst of brightness, making each bite a satisfying and flavorful experience.
Perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual dinner gathering, this bowl is quick to prepare yet packed with the kind of flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds. The combination of charred corn and seasoned chicken makes this dish both hearty and refreshing. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite toppings or using a different protein. The versatility of this recipe makes it ideal for meal prep as well!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped for garnish
Directions:
- In a large pot, cook rice according to package instructions.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add corn kernels and cook until lightly charred (5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter. Add the cooked chicken and sprinkle paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the chicken evenly in the spices.
- For the street corn sauce, mix mayonnaise, lime juice, and 1/4 cup cilantro in a small bowl.
- To assemble the bowl, layer the cooked rice, seasoned chicken, and charred corn. Drizzle with the street corn sauce and top with cotija cheese and cilantro.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a vibrant, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that brings together the rich tastes of Mexican street food and the comforting nature of a hearty rice bowl. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something more exciting for meal prep, this dish ticks all the boxes. Packed with tender, spiced chicken, charred corn, and a creamy sauce, it’s a meal that satisfies your hunger and your taste buds. But beyond its deliciousness, this recipe is also packed with nutritious ingredients that make it a great choice for a balanced meal.
Origins and Background
This recipe draws inspiration from the beloved Mexican street food known as “Elote,” or Mexican street corn, which is typically grilled corn on the cob slathered with mayonnaise, chili powder, lime juice, and sprinkled with cotija cheese. The street corn is a staple in many Latin American countries, offering bold and spicy flavors that make it a popular street food choice. The concept of incorporating this iconic street food into a bowl with chicken and rice provides a fresh, new spin on a traditional favorite, making it both familiar and unique.
This recipe incorporates the core elements of Mexican street corn—charred corn, creamy mayo-based sauce, chili powder, and lime—but elevates it to a satisfying and filling meal by adding seasoned chicken and rice. It’s an exciting, hearty dish that merges Mexican-inspired flavors with the convenience and comfort of a rice bowl.
Benefits of the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
1. Balanced and Nutrient-Rich
One of the main reasons this recipe stands out is its ability to provide a well-rounded meal. The chicken offers lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and keeping your energy levels high throughout the day. The rice serves as a healthy source of carbohydrates, offering sustained energy, while the corn adds fiber to keep your digestive system happy. Additionally, the fresh cilantro and lime juice add vitamins and antioxidants, providing not only a pop of color but also important health benefits.
2. Customization
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily switch out ingredients based on your dietary preferences or what’s available in your kitchen. For example, if you’re vegetarian or vegan, substitute the chicken with black beans, tofu, or even a vegetable-based protein. You can also switch up the rice—use brown rice for added fiber or quinoa for a protein boost. The toppings can be adjusted as well; try adding avocado, salsa, or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
3. Quick and Easy
One of the greatest benefits of the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is that it’s quick to prepare. In just under 30 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that rivals more complex dishes. The rice cooks while the chicken is seasoned and sautéed, and the corn can be charred simultaneously. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious but don’t have a lot of time to spare.
4. Meal Prep-Friendly
This recipe is also ideal for meal prepping. You can easily make a large batch of rice, chicken, and charred corn at the start of the week and store them separately. When it’s time to eat, simply assemble your bowl with your choice of toppings, and you’re ready to go. Not only does this save time, but it also helps ensure you have a healthy meal ready for busy days ahead. You can store the components in the fridge for up to three days, making this a practical recipe to keep in your weekly meal rotation.
5. Kid-Friendly
Another great benefit of the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is that it’s a kid-friendly recipe. The flavors are bold and exciting but not overwhelmingly spicy, making it a great option for young eaters. The combination of chicken and rice is familiar, while the corn and creamy sauce add a new and exciting twist that children will enjoy. Plus, kids can help with assembling their bowls, making it a fun and interactive meal for families.
6. Affordable
Compared to other recipes that may require expensive ingredients or unique items, the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is affordable and uses simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry or fridge. Chicken, rice, corn, and a few spices are all you need to bring this dish together. Whether you’re feeding a large family or just yourself, this meal won’t break the bank.
Why This Recipe is the Best
This recipe doesn’t just offer a great combination of flavors and textures; it also packs a punch in terms of taste. The smoky, charred corn complements the juicy, spiced chicken perfectly, while the creamy sauce adds richness and balances the spices. The rice acts as a neutral base that ties everything together, providing a comforting backdrop to the bolder flavors. Whether you enjoy a bit of heat from chili powder or love the tang of lime, this dish has something for everyone.
Another reason this recipe stands out is its simplicity. While other dishes may involve multiple cooking techniques or complex steps, this recipe keeps things straightforward. There’s no need to spend hours in the kitchen to achieve a flavorful meal. The ingredients are easy to work with, and the steps are simple to follow, ensuring that even beginner cooks can prepare this dish with ease.
Furthermore, the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl has a perfect balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables. It’s filling enough to keep you satisfied but not so heavy that you’ll feel sluggish afterward. The fresh cilantro and lime give it a zesty, refreshing flavor that balances the richness of the chicken and corn, creating a dish that’s both comforting and bright.
Tips for the Perfect Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
- Grill the Corn for Extra Flavor: If you have a grill or grill pan, try grilling the corn for an added smoky flavor. Charring the corn will give it a deeper, more authentic flavor that brings the street corn concept to life.
- Add Your Favorite Toppings: While this recipe includes cotija cheese and cilantro, you can always get creative with your toppings. Sliced avocado, jalapeños, or even a dollop of sour cream can be added to enhance the flavor.
- Make It Spicy: If you like your food on the spicier side, add a few dashes of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños to the bowl for an extra kick.
- Meal Prep the Rice and Chicken: For a quick grab-and-go meal, prepare the rice and chicken in advance, and store them in separate containers in the fridge. When it’s time to eat, just assemble and enjoy!
Final Thoughts
The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is not only a fun and delicious dish but also a versatile one that can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary needs. From busy weeknights to weekend meal prep, this dish is perfect for anyone looking for a tasty, quick, and nutritious meal. With its balance of proteins, veggies, and comforting flavors, it’s bound to become a family favorite.
By taking the essence of traditional Mexican street corn and combining it with chicken and rice, this bowl brings a fresh twist to a classic favorite. So, the next time you’re in the mood for something exciting and flavorful, try making this dish, and enjoy a satisfying and delicious meal that’s as easy to make as it is to eat.
Conclusion
The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a flavorful and versatile meal that combines the bold tastes of Mexican street food with the comforting heartiness of a rice bowl. It’s quick to prepare, packed with nutrients, and can easily be customized to suit different dietary needs. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or feeding the whole family, this recipe is sure to impress. With its balance of protein, vegetables, and vibrant spices, it offers a satisfying and delicious option for anyone looking for a tasty yet simple meal. Give it a try, and let the rich flavors of this dish bring a little excitement to your next meal!