How to Make a Healthy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl in Under 30 Minutes

If you’re craving a Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl that’s bursting with bold flavors and easy to prepare, this recipe is for you! Juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken meets creamy Mexican street corn and zesty cilantro lime rice for a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner bowl recipe or a satisfying meal prep option, this healthy chicken rice bowl delivers. Topped with crumbled cotija cheese, a squeeze of lime, and a hint of spice, every bite is an explosion of flavor. This Mexican-inspired chicken and rice bowl is the perfect way to enjoy elote-inspired chicken bowl flavors at home. Let’s dive into this irresistible combination!

Why You’ll Love This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

• Packed with Flavor: Smoky, spicy, and tangy elements make each bite exciting.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, this meal is great for busy weeknights.
• Versatile and Customizable: Adjust the spice level, switch up the cheese, or use different grains for variety.
• Nutritious and Filling: Loaded with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, this easy Mexican chicken recipe is both delicious and balanced.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 20 mins
• Total Time: 30 mins

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Juice of 1 lime

For the Street Corn:

• 2 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese)
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro

For the Cilantro Rice:

• 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
• 2 cups chicken broth (or water for a lighter version)
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tbsp butter (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1/2 tsp salt

Optional Toppings:

• Sliced jalapeños
• Avocado slices
• Hot sauce
• Extra cotija cheese
• Extra lime wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cilantro Rice

Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. In a saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice and salt. Lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, then fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in chopped cilantro, lime juice, and butter. Set aside while preparing the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with the seasoning mix. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Remove from heat, let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips or cubes.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Street Corn

If using fresh corn, grill it until slightly charred, then cut the kernels off the cob. If using frozen or canned corn, drain and sauté it in a pan until warmed through. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and lime juice. Stir in the warm corn, cotija cheese, and chopped cilantro. Mix well and set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

Start with a generous scoop of cilantro lime rice as the base. Add the sliced chicken on one side and the creamy street corn on the other. Drizzle extra lime juice on top for a fresh burst of flavor. Garnish with additional cotija cheese, sliced jalapeños, avocado, or your favorite toppings.

Nutritional Value & Health Information

Health Benefits:

• High in Protein: Supports muscle growth and keeps you feeling full.
• Rich in Healthy Fats: Contains beneficial fats from olive oil and cotija cheese.
• Good Source of Fiber: Corn and rice provide dietary fiber for digestion.
• Packed with Antioxidants: Cilantro and lime juice add freshness and essential vitamins.

Tips for the Best Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

• Marinate the Chicken: If you have extra time, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.
• Use Grilled Corn: Charring the corn slightly will give it a smoky, authentic street corn taste.
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or extra chili powder for a fiery kick.
• Swap the Rice: Try quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a different texture.
• Make It a Meal Prep: Store all components separately and assemble fresh for easy lunches throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?
Yes! If you’re short on time, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great substitute. Just toss it with some lime juice and seasonings for added flavor.

What’s a good substitute for cotija cheese?
If you can’t find cotija, feta cheese is a great alternative. Parmesan also works in a pinch.

How do I store leftovers?
Store each component separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat the chicken and corn before serving.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free mayo and sour cream alternatives, and skip the cheese or use a plant-based option.

Final Thoughts

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a deliciously satisfying meal that balances smoky, creamy, and zesty flavors in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner bowl recipe or meal-prepping for the week, this spicy street corn chicken dish is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and enjoy a homemade take on Mexican street corn bowl flavors! What are your favorite toppings for this dish? Let us know in the comments below!