Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

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This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is everything I crave in one bite. Juicy spiced chicken, sweet and smoky grilled corn, creamy sauce, and a fluffy bed of rice to catch all the goodness. When I first threw this together on a busy weeknight, I had no idea it would turn into one of my go-to comfort dinners. But it did. Because once you taste it, it’s impossible not to fall in love.

I remember making this the first time with leftover grilled corn and chicken thighs I didn’t want to go to waste. With just a few tweaks and a punchy lime crema, it turned from a bunch of scraps into a knockout meal. The flavors, the textures, the heat and the sweetness—it’s like summer in a bowl.

Since then, I’ve made it for dinner parties, packed it in lunches, and even prepped it as a meal for road trips. Every time, it gets the same reaction: silence, followed by “Can I have the recipe?” So here it is, my personal take on the most craveable rice bowl you’ll ever try.

Why You’ll Love This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

You’re going to love this recipe for the way it balances bold and creamy flavors in every spoonful. The chicken is seasoned and seared to perfection, then layered over tender rice and crowned with sweet corn, tangy lime crema, and a hit of cotija cheese. It’s also incredibly flexible—use rotisserie chicken, swap the corn for another grilled veggie, or make it meatless. It’s quick enough for weeknights but impressive enough to serve to friends. Plus, every part can be made ahead, making this bowl your new best meal prep friend.

Ingredients

Chicken thighs bring deep flavor and stay juicy when cooked, making them perfect for this bowl.

Cooked rice forms the hearty base and soaks up every bit of flavor from the toppings.

Corn kernels are lightly charred for a smoky sweetness that defines that classic street corn vibe.

Mayonnaise and sour cream create the creamy base for the tangy sauce that ties everything together.

Lime juice brightens the dish and gives the crema a zesty kick.

Chili powder and smoked paprika bring warmth and depth to both the chicken and the sauce.

Garlic powder enhances the savory flavor profile.

Cotija cheese adds salty, crumbly richness that melts beautifully into the hot ingredients.

Fresh cilantro is optional but adds a burst of herbal freshness.

Salt and black pepper bring balance and amplify all the other flavors.

How to Make Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

Season boneless chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Sear them in a skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown and cooked through. Let rest, then slice.

Step 2: Grill or Char the Corn

If using fresh corn, grill it until charred and tender. You can also use frozen or canned corn and char it in a dry skillet until golden.

Step 3: Make the Lime Crema

In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

Add warm rice to the bottom of each bowl. Top with sliced chicken, corn, a generous drizzle of lime crema, crumbled cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro if using. Serve immediately.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

You can easily adapt this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl to fit your taste or dietary needs. Swap the chicken thighs for grilled chicken breast or even shredded rotisserie chicken to save time. If you prefer a vegetarian version, grilled zucchini, mushrooms, or black beans are great protein-packed alternatives.

Change up the grain base with quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice if you’re watching carbs. Not a fan of cotija? Feta makes a solid substitute with its salty, crumbly texture. And for a fun twist, add diced avocado, chopped jalapeños, or a sprinkle of hot sauce for an extra punch.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve this bowl with a side of tortilla chips and guacamole for a casual meal or pair it with a tangy slaw for something more refreshing. A chilled glass of hibiscus tea or limeade complements the spices beautifully. For a dinner party, you can even serve it buffet-style with all the components laid out so guests can build their own bowls.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover components separately in airtight containers. The chicken and corn will last up to 3 days in the fridge, while the lime crema stays good for about 5 days. Reheat the chicken and corn in the microwave or in a skillet until warmed through. Assemble the bowls fresh each time for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I make the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl ahead of time?

Yes, it’s a great meal prep recipe. Cook the chicken, corn, and rice in advance, and keep the lime crema chilled. Assemble just before serving.

What type of rice works best for the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?

Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice works beautifully, but you can also use brown rice or even a cilantro-lime rice for extra flavor.

Can I freeze Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl components?

You can freeze the cooked chicken and corn, but avoid freezing the crema or rice for best texture when reheated.

How spicy is the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?

It has a mild kick from the chili powder and paprika, but you can adjust the heat by adding hot sauce or extra spices.

What can I use instead of cotija cheese in the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?

If you don’t have cotija, crumbled feta or queso fresco are excellent substitutes that maintain the tangy-salty profile.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you’re loving the vibe of this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, you’ll definitely want to check out my Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice. It’s creamy, garlicky, and just as comforting with a different twist. Another favorite is the Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken, rich with savory toppings and packed with homestyle flavor. And if you want something lighter, the Roasted Zucchini and Squash makes a perfect side to complement this bowl.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Loved this recipe? Don’t forget to pin this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl to your Pinterest board for easy access anytime you need a go-to weeknight dinner. Share it with friends on Facebook or send it straight to someone who could use a little inspiration. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll want to tell everyone about it.

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