Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe

If you’re ready to fall in love with your next go-to summer meal, let me introduce you to the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. This vibrant bowl brings together juicy marinated chicken, zesty grilled corn salad inspired by classic Mexican street corn, fluffy rice, and all your favorite fresh toppings. Every spoonful is packed with flavor, color, and the ultimate combination of creamy, smoky, tangy, and spicy that just screams backyard cookout vibes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is how each ingredient plays a pivotal role, from the tender spices in the chicken to the creamy pop of the street corn salad. It’s simple, yes, but every component layers on taste and texture you’ll crave all season long.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts soak up flavor in a quick marinade, becoming juicy and succulent after grilling.
• Chicken marinade: This blend is the secret to infusing each bite with deep flavor—don’t skip it!
• Grilled corn: Fresh ears of corn, lightly oiled and grilled until delightfully charred, provide a sweet crunch that’s essential for the “street corn” vibe.
• Mayonnaise: Creamy and rich, it acts as the base for the street corn salad, binding everything together.
• Feta cheese: Brings a tangy creaminess that balances the corn’s sweetness.
• Fresh cilantro: Bright, herby notes that liven up the whole bowl.
• Lime juice: Adds a punchy citrus zip—taste and adjust as you go!
• Garlic: Minced for savory depth throughout the salad.
• Chili powder and paprika: These smoky, peppery spices bring classic Mexican flavor and appealing color.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: The essential seasoning duo to enhance every layer.
• Red onion: Diced for a little crunch and gentle sharpness.
• Cotija cheese: Crumbled on top for a salty, authentic street corn finish.
• Rice of choice: Fluffy white, brown, or even cauliflower rice—pick your favorite base for soaking up all the saucy goodness.
• Black beans: Creamy, hearty beans boost protein and fiber—plus they’re delicious with the rest of the toppings.
• Cherry tomatoes: Halved for juicy bursts of color and flavor.
• Jalapeño slices: For those who love a little kick.
• Lime wedges: Serve on the side to let everyone adjust the zing to their liking.
• Fresh cilantro (extra): Sprinkle liberally for color and freshness.
• Sour cream: A cool, creamy contrast to the warm, spiced chicken.
• Avocado: Slices of creamy avocado make every bowl feel extra luscious.

How to Make Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix up your chicken marinade, making sure every element is blended for maximum flavor. Place the chicken breasts in a glass dish or shallow bowl, pour the marinade over, and turn them to fully coat. Let the chicken rest in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes (or up to an hour if you have time)—this helps the flavors soak deep into the meat for juicier, tastier results.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium heat, around 400–450 degrees F. Let any excess marinade drip off as you transfer the chicken to the grill. Cook each side over direct flame for 4–6 minutes, then move them to indirect heat and cover the grill, letting them finish cooking for another 5–7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F. Give the chicken a rest for at least five minutes (it should finish cooking itself up to a safe 165 degrees F), locking in all those juices. Slice or cube as you prefer for your rice bowls.

Step 3: Char and Prepare the Corn

With the grill still nice and hot (about 450 degrees F), drizzle your shucked corn cobs with a little olive oil and massage it around with your hands. Sprinkle a bit of salt and lay them on the hot grates. Rotate every 2–3 minutes with tongs for that irresistible char and smokiness, cooking until the corn is tender and evenly blistered—about 10–12 minutes. Cool just enough to handle and cut off the kernels with a sharp knife.

Step 4: Mix the Street Corn Salad

In a roomy bowl, combine the grilled corn kernels, mayonnaise, feta cheese, chopped cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, red onion, and cotija cheese. Stir everything gently but thoroughly. Taste as you go—add a touch more lime or chili powder until it’s singing with flavor.

Step 5: Build Your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Grab four large bowls and start layering: first the cooked rice, then a generous portion of sliced grilled chicken and a big scoop of street corn salad. Now comes the fun part—invite everyone to add their favorite toppings like black beans, cherry tomatoes, extra cilantro, jalapeño slices, lime wedges, sour cream, and avocado. Dig in while it’s still warm and let every bite transport you to summer festivals and backyard parties!

How to Serve Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Garnishes

Don’t skimp on toppings when serving your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl! A scattering of feta or cotija cheese, extra chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of fresh lime takes the bowl from tasty to show-stopping. Drizzle on a touch of sour cream or even a spicy crema for creamy richness, and ask at the table who wants sliced avocado (hint: everyone will!).

Side Dishes

Balance your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl with light, crunchy accompaniments. Serve alongside tortilla chips and your favorite salsa, or a simple, leafy salad dressed with a citrus vinaigrette. If you’re hosting a group, set out bowls of pico de gallo or pickled red onions for even more festive flair.

Creative Ways to Present

Make it a build-your-own bowl bar at your next party! Set out all the ingredients and toppings for everyone to craft their own custom Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl masterpiece. For a twist, try swapping rice for quinoa, layering the ingredients in mason jars for picnics, or serving mini versions in cups for appetizers at a garden party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s rare!), store the chicken, street corn salad, rice, and toppings separately in airtight containers. This keeps everything as fresh as possible and makes for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

Freezing

The chicken is absolutely freezer-friendly—just cool and slice, then tuck into a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. The rice can also be frozen, though the street corn salad is best enjoyed fresh due to the creamy dressing. If you do freeze the components, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken and rice gently in the microwave or over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to keep things moist. The street corn salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so add it after reheating the other components for the perfect Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl experience.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will stay juicy and tender on the grill and bring even more flavor. Just watch the cooking time, as they may need a couple extra minutes.

What’s the best kind of rice for a Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl?

You can use whatever rice you love—white, brown, jasmine, basmati, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option. The important part is that it’s fluffy and warm to soak up all those flavors!

Can I make this recipe dairy free?

Yes! Swap out the feta and cotija cheeses for your favorite dairy-free cheese (or skip them), and use a vegan mayo in the street corn salad for a fully dairy-free bowl.

How spicy is the finished dish?

The Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl has a gentle kick from chili powder and the option of jalapeños, but you control the heat. Omit or reduce chili powder and jalapeños for a mild version—or add extra for serious spice lovers!

Is there a way to grill the chicken indoors?

If grilling outdoors isn’t an option, a grill pan or cast iron skillet on the stovetop works beautifully. Just cook the chicken as directed, making sure to get a good sear on both sides and finish until the internal temperature is safe.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a meal that’s bright, bold, and just plain fun to make and eat, give the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl a try. It’s one of those dishes that makes ordinary weeknights feel like a special occasion—and trust me, you’ll want to make it again and again. Enjoy every flavorful bite!

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