Jump to Recipe Print RecipeEvery summer, as street vendors dish out their vibrant elote, I find myself dreaming of those glorious flavors! This Smoky Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl brings that beloved street food right to my kitchen. Combining tender, marinated chicken with charred corn and a zesty lime crema, this meal is both customizable and high in protein, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or meal prep. You can easily swap in your favorite ingredients, ensuring every bite is just how you like it. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with this deliciously satisfying bowl? Let’s dive in! Why is this rice bowl a must-try? Flavor Explosion: Each bite of this Smoky Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl bursts with vibrant, zesty flavors, making dinner feel like a festive celebration. Customizable: Tailor it to your taste by swapping proteins or mixing in your favorite toppings like avocado or black beans. Protein-Packed: With marinated chicken thighs, this dish delivers a satisfying, high-protein meal that keeps you full longer. Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in under an hour without compromising on taste or quality. Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your family and friends with a dish that captures the essence of gourmet street food, right from your own kitchen! Serving Suggestions: Pair it with a refreshing side salad or some tortilla chips for the ultimate dining experience. Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Ingredients Transform your kitchen into a fiesta with these vibrant ingredients! For the Chicken Marinade Boneless Chicken Thighs – Provides lean protein that becomes flavorful when marinated. Substitution: Chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option. Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps marinate the chicken. Substitution: Any neutral oil can be used. Chili Powder – Adds heat and depth to the chicken’s flavor. Substitute: Paprika or cayenne pepper for different spice levels. Cumin – Enhances the earthy flavor profile. Substitution: Curry powder for a unique twist. Paprika – Contributes smokiness and color. Garlic (minced) – Boosts flavor intensity. Substitution: Garlic powder (though fresh is preferred). Lime (juice) – Brightens flavors and tenderizes the chicken. Use fresh lime juice for best results. For the Rice Base Jasmine Rice – Serves as the base of the bowl, adding texture and carbohydrate content. Substitution: Brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option. Chicken Broth – Enhances the rice flavor. Substitution: Vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. Fresh Cilantro – Adds freshness and color. For the Street Corn Topping Fresh Corn (or frozen) – Core component for the street corn topping, providing sweetness and crunch. Substitute: Canned corn (drained). Mayonnaise – Creaminess for the corn topping. Substitution: Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Cotija Cheese – Brings salty creaminess to the bowl. Substitute: Feta cheese for similar texture. For the Lime Crema Mexican Crema/Sour Cream – Adds a tangy, creamy element. Lime Juice – Enhances the zesty flavor of the crema. Salt – A pinch to balance the flavors. Elevate your dinner with this delightful Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, where every ingredient plays a role in creating a vibrant and satisfying meal! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Smoky Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Step 1: Marinate the Chicken In a large bowl, combine boneless chicken thighs, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, minced garlic, and fresh lime juice. Mix thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to infuse the flavors. Step 2: Cook the Rice Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of chicken broth and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. Stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice for added flavor. Step 3: Char the Corn While the rice cooks, prepare the corn. Preheat a grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. If using fresh corn, remove the husks and silk, and place the ears on the grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until evenly charred. Once done, let the corn cool slightly, then cut the kernels off the cob and mix with mayonnaise and half the chili powder in a bowl. Step 4: Grill the Chicken Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the marinated chicken thighs from the bowl and place them on the grill. Cook for about 7-10 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Step 5: Prepare the Lime Crema In a small bowl, combine Mexican crema (or sour cream), lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and well-mixed. This creamy lime mixture will add a refreshing twist to your Smoky Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish. Step 6: Assemble the Bowls To create your Smoky Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, start by adding a generous portion of the cilantro-lime jasmine rice to each bowl. Top with sliced grilled chicken, a heap of charred corn, crumbled cotija cheese, and a drizzle of lime crema. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor, and serve immediately for a delightful meal experience. Expert Tips for the Best Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Marinate Wisely: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or even overnight; this allows those spices to penetrate deeply. Rice Perfection: Rinse jasmine rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, which helps achieve fluffy grains for the rice bowl. Char with Care: Avoid overcrowding the grill when charring corn; this leads to uneven cooking. Aim for nice grill marks and a sweet, smoky flavor. Rest Your Chicken: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This retains juices, ensuring your chicken is tender and juicy. Customize It: Feel free to adjust spice levels in the chicken marinade. Add more chili powder or cayenne for a kick to your street corn chicken rice bowl! Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Variations Feel free to unleash your creativity and explore these delicious twists on your Smoky Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl! Cauliflower Rice: Swap jasmine rice for cauliflower rice to lower carbs while still enjoying a satisfying texture. This option is a great way to boost those veggies! Shrimp or Steak: Use grilled shrimp or steak in place of chicken for a delightful protein twist. Each adds a unique flavor profile that’s equally delicious. Avocado Slices: Top your bowl with creamy avocado slices for an extra indulgent touch. It elevates both the taste and nutrition, bringing healthy fats to your meal. Black Beans: Add black beans for a hearty, plant-based protein option. They complement the flavors beautifully while adding a creamy texture and richness. Pickled Jalapeños: Incorporate pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick. They add an exciting contrast to the sweetness of the corn and the creaminess of the lime crema. Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions instead of cilantro. Each herb brings its unique freshness, adding depth to your dish. Smoky Paprika: For more depth, substitute regular paprika with smoked paprika for an intensified smoky flavor. It’s a simple twist that can redefine your bowl. Feta Cheese: Use crumbled feta cheese in place of cotija for a tangier option. This swap brings its distinct creaminess and liveliness to enhance your bowl’s overall taste. For even more meal ideas, check out these delicious Buffalo Chicken Bowls and A taste of Caribbean Chicken Rice that celebrate comfort food with a twist! What to Serve with Smoky Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Enhance your dining experience by pairing this delectable rice bowl with vibrant and complementary sides that spotlight fresh flavors and textures. Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro offers a bright contrast to the smoky chicken and corn. Tortilla Chips: Crispy chips serve as a crunchy side and perfect vehicles for scooping up the bowl’s zesty elements, adding great texture. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A tangy and creamy salad made with grilled corn, lime, and mayonnaise, it echoes the flavors of your rice bowl! Cilantro Lime Rice: For a fragrant side, serve fragrant lime-infused jasmine rice to keep the meal cohesive and deliciously rich in flavor. Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and a touch of coolness, balancing the warm, spicy elements of the dish beautifully. Refreshing Watermelon Salad: A light, fruity salad tossed in lime and mint cuts through the richness, creating a refreshing palate cleanser. Margaritas: A classic choice, a refreshing margarita complements the zesty notes of the dish and enhances the overall festive dining experience. How to Store and Freeze Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Fridge: Keep any leftover street corn chicken rice bowl components in airtight containers for up to 4 days. This helps maintain the freshness of flavors and textures. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the marinated chicken and cooked rice separately in airtight bags for up to 3 months. Ensure to label the bags with the date. Reheating: Thaw frozen chicken and rice in the fridge overnight. Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, and reheat rice in the microwave with a splash of broth for moisture. Assembly Storage: If possible, store components separately to keep the textures intact and assemble your bowl fresh as needed. Make Ahead Options These Smoky Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and enhance. Additionally, the jasmine rice can be cooked and refrigerated for up to 3 days, ensuring a fluffy base ready for assembly. Prepare the charred corn topping and lime crema ahead of time, storing them separately to maintain freshness. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and rice, assemble the bowls, and enjoy a quick, delicious meal that’s just as vibrant and satisfying as when freshly made. Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right corn for my street corn chicken rice bowl? Absolutely! When selecting fresh corn, look for ears that are plump and feel heavy. The husks should be bright green and tightly wrapped, with no dark spots or dry husk edges. Avoid corn with kernels that appear shriveled or have dark spots all over, as this may indicate that it’s past its prime. How should I store leftovers from the street corn chicken rice bowl? Very simple! Store all components of your street corn chicken rice bowl separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This will keep the flavors fresh. If you are storing mixed leftovers, they may last a bit shorter, so try to keep them separate when possible. Can I freeze the street corn chicken rice bowl? Yes, you can! To freeze, package the marinated chicken and cooked rice in airtight bags or containers for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label bags with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat the chicken in a skillet and the rice in the microwave with a splash of broth for added moisture. What should I do if my chicken is dry after cooking? If the chicken turns out dry, it could be due to overcooking. Next time, check for doneness using a meat thermometer to reach 165°F. Moreover, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing can help lock in the juices. To revive dry chicken, consider shredding it and mixing it with a bit of chicken broth or extra lime crema for added moisture. Is there a vegetarian version of the street corn chicken rice bowl? Absolutely! You can make this recipe vegetarian-friendly by substituting the chicken with grilled zucchini, mushrooms, or even tempeh for a hearty protein source. Additionally, swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to enhance the flavors of your rice while keeping it entirely plant-based. Can I customize the spice level of the chicken marinade? Very much so! If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to reduce the amount of chili powder or opt for paprika instead. Conversely, if you’re craving a bit more heat, add cayenne pepper or more chili powder to the marinade to suit your taste. The more, the merrier! Savory Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl for Flavor Lovers Enjoy the bold flavors of this Smoky Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, featuring marinated chicken, charred corn, and zesty lime crema, perfect for dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsMarinating Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: MexicanCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken Marinade1 pound Boneless Chicken Thighs Substitution: Chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option.2 tablespoons Olive Oil Substitution: Any neutral oil can be used.1 tablespoon Chili Powder Substitute: Paprika or cayenne pepper for different spice levels.1 teaspoon Cumin Substitution: Curry powder for a unique twist.1 teaspoon Paprika3 cloves Garlic (minced) Substitution: Garlic powder (though fresh is preferred).2 tablespoons Lime (juice) Use fresh lime juice for best results.For the Rice Base1 cup Jasmine Rice Substitution: Brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.2 cups Chicken Broth Substitution: Vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.1/4 cup Fresh CilantroFor the Street Corn Topping2 ears Fresh Corn (or frozen) Substitute: Canned corn (drained).1/4 cup Mayonnaise Substitution: Greek yogurt for a lighter option.1/2 cup Cotija Cheese Substitute: Feta cheese for similar texture.For the Lime Crema1/2 cup Mexican Crema/Sour Cream1 tablespoon Lime Juice1/4 teaspoon Salt Equipment GrillMedium saucepanLarge bowlSmall Bowl Method PreparationIn a large bowl, combine boneless chicken thighs, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, minced garlic, and fresh lime juice. Mix thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to infuse the flavors.Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of chicken broth and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. Stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice for added flavor.While the rice cooks, prepare the corn. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using fresh corn, remove the husks and silk, and place the ears on the grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until evenly charred. Once done, let the corn cool slightly, then cut the kernels off the cob and mix with mayonnaise and half the chili powder in a bowl.Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the marinated chicken thighs from the bowl and place them on the grill. Cook for about 7-10 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.In a small bowl, combine Mexican crema (or sour cream), lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and well-mixed.To create your Smoky Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, add a generous portion of the cilantro-lime jasmine rice to each bowl. Top with sliced grilled chicken, a heap of charred corn, crumbled cotija cheese, and a drizzle of lime crema. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor, and serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 75gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 6gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 15mg NotesFor maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or even overnight; this allows those spices to penetrate deeply. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
