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A vibrant Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl with grilled chicken, charred corn, fluffy rice, lime crema, cotija cheese, and fresh toppings, served in a rustic bowl.

This Is Why Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Stands Out

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is the perfect combination of smoky, savory, and creamy flavors. Juicy, seasoned chicken pairs with charred street corn, fluffy rice, and a zesty lime crema to create a satisfying, protein-packed meal. Inspired by classic Mexican street corn (Elote), this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep. It’s easy to customize, naturally gluten-free, and bursting with bold, delicious flavors in every bite.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • Chicken breast or thighs – juicy, well-seasoned protein.
  • Chili powder & garlic powder – adds smoky depth.
  • Paprika – enhances flavor and color.
  • Lime juice – brightens the flavor and tenderizes.
  • Olive oil – keeps the chicken moist.

For the Street Corn:

  • Fresh or frozen corn kernels – grilled or charred for that authentic taste.
  • Butter – enhances the richness.
  • Chili powder & smoked paprika – brings in warmth and spice.
  • Cotija cheese – adds a salty, creamy element.
  • Fresh cilantro – for a fresh, herbaceous kick.
  • Jalapeño (optional) – for extra heat.

For the Rice Bowl:

  • Cooked white or brown rice – the hearty base.
  • Black beans (optional) – for added fiber and protein.
  • Avocado – brings a creamy, buttery texture.
  • Cherry tomatoes – adds freshness and acidity.

For the Lime Crema:

  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt – provides creaminess.
  • Lime juice & zest – enhances brightness.
  • Garlic powder & salt – rounds out the flavors.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

  1. In a bowl, mix chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and lime juice.
  2. Coat the chicken evenly with the seasoning.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil.
  4. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked.
  5. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.

Step 2: Char the Corn

  1. Heat a skillet on high heat and add a little butter.
  2. Add the corn kernels and cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to develop a deep char.
  3. Stir occasionally and cook for another 2 minutes.
  4. Season with chili powder, smoked paprika, and lime juice.
  5. Remove from heat and toss with crumbled cotija cheese and fresh cilantro.

Step 3: Make the Lime Crema

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, lime zest, garlic powder, and salt.
  2. Stir until smooth and creamy.
  3. Set aside until ready to drizzle over the bowls.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

  1. Start with a base of warm, fluffy rice in each bowl.
  2. Add sliced chicken and charred street corn.
  3. Top with black beans, cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro.
  4. Drizzle generously with lime crema and a final squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Notes

  • Marinate the Chicken – Let the seasoning soak in for at least 15 minutes for extra flavor.
  • Use Fresh Lime Juice – Freshly squeezed lime gives the best citrus punch.
  • Make It Spicy – Add jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce for extra heat.
  • Meal Prep Tip – Store ingredients separately and assemble fresh to keep the best texture.
  • Author: Nesrin Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop, Grill
  • Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg