Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
A vibrant and flavorful Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl combining smoky grilled chicken and charred corn with a creamy tangy sauce over fluffy rice. This easy-to-make, protein-rich meal offers a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, creamy, and fresh flavors, customizable for various dietary preferences and perfect for quick dinners or meal prep.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Protein
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Vegetables & Grains
- 2 ears fresh corn on the cob
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 lime, juiced (plus wedges for garnish)
Sauce & Seasonings
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (plus a pinch for sauce and garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. Lightly coat with olive oil. Grill over medium heat for 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through and charred. Let the chicken rest briefly before slicing.
- Char the Corn: While the chicken cooks, grill the ears of corn directly over the flame or on a grill pan, turning occasionally until all sides have char marks and the corn is tender and smoky. Let cool slightly, then slice kernels off the cob.
- Make the Street Corn Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, lime juice, cotija cheese, a pinch of chili powder, and chopped cilantro. Stir until well mixed to create a creamy, tangy sauce.
- Assemble the Bowl: Place a generous scoop of cooked rice into a bowl. Layer with sliced grilled chicken, then top with the roasted corn kernels. Drizzle the street corn sauce over everything, and garnish with extra cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and a lime wedge.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately for optimal flavor and texture. Optionally, add hot sauce or diced avocado on the side for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Use fresh corn in season for the best flavor.
- Allow grilled chicken to rest to retain juiciness.
- Add fresh lime juice at the end to brighten flavors.
- Lightly toast chili powder and smoked paprika to enhance aroma.
- Ensure rice is fluffy and not wet to avoid sogginess.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1/4 recipe)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, grilled chicken, charred corn, Mexican street corn sauce, creamy sauce, healthy bowl, easy dinner, gluten free