Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl – A Flavor-Packed Meal

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A Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is the ultimate fusion of bold flavors, creamy textures, and wholesome ingredients. This recipe combines grilled, tender chicken thighs, charred sweet corn, creamy Cotija cheese, and a tangy lime-infused sauce for a satisfying and customizable meal. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious dinner or a meal-prep-friendly lunch, this Mexican-inspired bowl delivers flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – A straightforward, no-fuss recipe perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable – Add your favorite toppings like avocado, black beans, or jalapeños.
• Packed with Protein – Chicken thighs provide a juicy and rich protein source.
• Bold Mexican Flavors – Chili powder, lime juice, and Cotija cheese make every bite delicious.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a batch and enjoy throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Street Corn Topping:

• 1 cup sweet corn kernels (grilled if possible, or frozen)
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
• ½ cup sour cream
• 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)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

Combine lime juice, avocado oil, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Coat the chicken thighs in the mixture and let them marinate for 15-30 minutes in the fridge.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken thighs for 8-10 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.

3. Prepare the Street Corn Topping

In a mixing bowl, combine grilled corn, red onion, sour cream, mayonnaise, Cotija cheese, and chili powder. Add salt, pepper, and lime juice to taste.

4. Prepare the Rice

Reheat 3 cups of cooked rice with a splash of water to keep it fluffy.

5. Assemble the Bowls

Divide the rice into four bowls, then top each bowl with sliced chicken, street corn topping, extra Cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro.

6. Serve

Garnish with lime wedges and serve warm. Add extra toppings if desired.

Tips for the Best Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

1. Char the Corn for Extra Flavor

For a smoky taste, grill or cook the corn in a hot skillet until slightly charred.

2. Use Fresh Lime Juice

Fresh lime juice enhances the flavor and balances the creamy textures of the sour cream and mayo.

3. Reheat Rice with a Splash of Water

Adding a bit of water when reheating rice prevents it from drying out.

4. Add Extra Heat

For spice lovers, add chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Customization Ideas

Extra Topping Ideas:

• Diced Avocado or Guacamole – Adds creaminess and richness.
• Pico de Gallo – Fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro bring a juicy crunch.
• Shredded Lettuce – Adds freshness and texture.
• Radish Slices – Provides a peppery bite.
• Sliced Green Onions – Enhances flavor.
• Hot Sauce or Sriracha – For extra spice.

Swap Ingredients for a New Twist:

• Protein Swap: Use grilled shrimp, steak, or tofu instead of chicken.
• Rice Alternative: Swap white rice for brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.
• Cheese Variety: Use feta cheese if you can’t find Cotija.

How to Store and Meal Prep

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Store individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

📌 Meal Prep Tip: Prepare all components separately and assemble before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes! Chicken breast works well but may be less juicy than thighs.

2. What’s the best way to grill corn?

Grill fresh corn on the cob for 3-5 minutes per side, turning frequently.

3. How do I make this dish dairy-free?

Use dairy-free sour cream and omit Cotija cheese or replace it with nutritional yeast.

4. Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Replace chicken with tofu or black beans for a meat-free version.

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Final Thoughts

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a flavorful, nutritious, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings. With its smoky grilled corn, juicy chicken, and creamy cheese, this dish will become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Try it today and customize it to make it your own!