Pin
Once summer corn shows up, I can't stop thinking about this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl All those creamy cheesy charred bites thrown together just scream lazy summer nights You can throw it together quick and it fills everyone up—I've never seen leftovers at my house
The first time I tossed this together, it was after a grill-out with the family Leftover grilled chicken and corn turned into lunch and everyone wouldn’t stop raving Since then, I get a flood of good memories with every mouthful
Irresistible Ingredients
- Salt and pepper: set your tastes right by sprinkling these as you cook and right before serving
- Fresh cilantro: gives a fresh little punch bright, green leaves make all the difference
- Smoked paprika: adds sweet smoky barbecue flavor pick the rich red kind for best results
- Chili powder: brings some warmth and deep color strong spicy aroma is key
- Lime: squeeze for big citrus snap fresh juice is the way to go
- Cotija cheese, crumbled: salty, crumbly Not finding cotija? Just sub in fresh feta
- Sour cream: throws in a tang so things never get too heavy thick sour cream is the creamiest
- Mayonnaise: makes the corn topping extra smooth splurge on good mayo for better taste
- Yellow corn, grilled and cut off the cob: sweet with tan edges grilled is best, canned works if you’re in a rush
- White rice, cooked: soft and fluffy, soaks up the creamy stuff You can use fresh rice or leftovers
- Chicken breasts, boneless and skinless: juicy, cooks fast on the grill Aim for ones that look thick and fresh
Simple Steps
- Add Final Touches:
- Scatter some extra cotija and cilantro right on top before eating Love citrus? Pop a lime wedge alongside Or toss in some fresh jalapeno if want extra heat
- Layer It Up:
- Spoon warm rice into each bowl, pile on sliced chicken, then mound on the creamy corn You won't miss any flavor grabbing it all together
- Make the Corn Creamy:
- Pour grilled or canned corn into a big bowl Add sour cream and mayo, stirring till it’s all mixed Squeeze in lime, toss in cilantro and half the cheese Taste and season till it's spot on for you
- Grill the Chicken:
- Pat chicken breasts dry, coat with smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper Get your grill or pan hot, then cook chicken six to eight minutes each side No fussing with them so you get golden edges Once done, let them rest five minutes before you slice Keeps all that juice inside
Pin
Cotija’s the MVP for me It crumbles so easily and that salty snap takes every bite up a notch I still picture my family after a Sunday BBQ all passing the cheese bowl around piling it high on their own bowls while we joked and laughed
Stay Fresh
Keep leftovers in the fridge up to three days If you can, separate chicken, rice, and corn—that way nothing gets mushy When you wanna eat, just reheat chicken and rice with a splash of water and top with that cold corn topping The mix of warm and cool is the best
Fun Swaps
Go for brown rice or quinoa if you’re into nuttier flavor and more fiber Short on time? Grab rotisserie chicken Vegan pals can just use plant-based mayo, sour cream, and cheese and it’s still great
Serving Ideas
It’s awesome for lunch or a full-on dinner Slice up some avocado or throw on mixed greens for color If you’re after some zing, go wild with pickled jalapenos or onions My kids will finish their bowls just to get extra chips for scooping everything up
Pin
Bold Street Corn Magic
This bowl is all about elote—Mexico’s street corn Classic mayo, cheese, lime, and spices—all piled on corn Everything you love gets mixed together in one bowl—no grill needed if it’s chilly out
FAQs About the Recipe
- → Can I use canned corn instead of grilled?
Go for it! Just make sure you drain the canned corn. Toast it up in a frying pan to give a little smoky edge if you want.
- → What cheese can replace cotija?
Feta’s a great backup if you’re out of cotija. You still get that crumbly, salty kick.
- → Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
No problem! Chop and cook everything ahead. When it’s time to eat, just pile it all into your bowl and dig in.
- → How can I make this bowl spicier?
Craving spice? Grab fresh jalapeños, shake on hot sauce, or dust chili powder over your chicken or corn.
- → What other grains can I use besides white rice?
Quinoa or brown rice are awesome instead of white rice. They taste great and switch things up.
- → Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Try swapping for tofu, steak, or even grilled shrimp if you feel like mixing it up—the bowl’s still a hit.