Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl: Your New Weeknight Favorite!

Are you searching for a dish that perfectly balances vibrant flavors, satisfying textures, and simple preparation? Look no further than this incredible Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl! Imagine tender, spice-rubbed chicken nestled on a bed of fluffy rice, topped with a creamy, zesty, and slightly charred street corn mixture, all crowned with creamy avocado and fresh cilantro. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary journey to the bustling streets of Mexico, right in your own kitchen.

The beauty of the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl lies in its harmonious layers. Each component, from the smoky chicken to the tangy street corn, plays a crucial role in creating a symphony of taste. It’s a complete meal in one bowl, making it perfect for busy weeknights, effortless meal prep, or even a casual gathering with friends. Forget complicated recipes; this one is designed for maximum flavor with minimal fuss, proving that healthy, delicious food doesn’t have to be a chore. Get ready to add this show-stopping Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl to your regular dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe

There are countless reasons why this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is about to become your new obsession. First and foremost, it’s an absolute explosion of flavor. The chicken is seasoned with a robust blend of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, giving it a depth that pairs beautifully with the bright, tangy notes of the street corn. Speaking of the street corn, that’s where the magic truly happens! Slightly charred kernels are tossed in a creamy, zesty sauce made with mayonnaise, sour cream, and fresh lime juice, then finished with crumbly Cotija cheese and fresh cilantro. It’s the perfect blend of savory, spicy, and refreshing.

Beyond the incredible taste, you’ll adore the versatility of this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. While the recipe is fantastic as written, it’s also incredibly adaptable. You can easily swap out chicken for shrimp or black beans for a vegetarian option. Add different toppings like black beans, pico de gallo, or pickled red onions to customize it to your liking. It’s a fantastic way to use up ingredients you might already have on hand and transform them into something extraordinary. This adaptability ensures that the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl never gets boring and can cater to diverse palates.

Another major reason to fall in love with this recipe is its efficiency. Despite tasting like a gourmet meal, it comes together surprisingly quickly. Most of the cooking involves parallel processes – while the rice simmers, the chicken cooks, and then the corn is prepared in the same skillet. This streamlined approach means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your delicious creation. It’s a balanced meal that offers protein, complex carbohydrates, and fresh vegetables, making it a wholesome choice for any day of the week. This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl delivers on taste, convenience, and health, making it a true winner.

Why You Should Try This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

If you’re still on the fence about trying this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, let me convince you. Firstly, it offers a fantastic way to introduce vibrant, Mexican-inspired flavors into your weekly meal plan without relying on heavy, fried dishes. This bowl is fresh, bright, and satisfying, providing a healthier alternative to traditional takeout. The combination of lean protein from the chicken, complex carbohydrates from the rice, and the fiber and vitamins from the corn and avocado makes it a nutritionally robust choice that will keep you feeling full and energized. This is not just a tasty meal; it’s smart eating disguised as indulgence.

Secondly, the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is incredibly satisfying for all ages and tastes. Even picky eaters often enjoy the mild, creamy flavors of the street corn, especially when paired with familiar chicken and rice. You can adjust the spice level to your preference, making it suitable for everyone from spice enthusiasts to those who prefer milder flavors. It’s also a visually appealing dish, with its medley of colors from the golden corn, verdant cilantro and avocado, and rich chicken. Presentation matters, and this bowl delivers a feast for the eyes as well as the palate, making your dinner table feel special.

Finally, trying this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a step towards expanding your culinary repertoire. It introduces you to the concept of building delicious and balanced bowls, a meal prep strategy that saves time and promotes healthy eating throughout the week. Once you master this recipe, you’ll feel confident experimenting with other bowl combinations, whether it’s a Mediterranean Chicken Bowl or a Shrimp and Rice Bowl with Pineapple Salsa. It’s a gateway recipe that unlocks a world of easy, customizable, and incredibly delicious meals. Give this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl a try; your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Crafting the perfect Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl starts with having the right ingredients and tools at hand. Quality ingredients make all the difference in the final taste, ensuring every bite is as delicious as it should be. Don’t worry, most of these items are pantry staples, making this a convenient and accessible recipe for home cooks of all skill levels.

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Cut into uniform 1-inch pieces. Thighs offer more flavor and tend to stay juicier, while breasts are leaner.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the chicken and building a flavorful crust.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds a foundational smoky, mild heat.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Earthy and warm, a classic complement to Mexican flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Crucial for that deep, smoky aroma that elevates the chicken.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A pungent, aromatic boost.
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle savory depth.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken.

For the Street Corn:

• 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (if frozen, thawed): Fresh corn off the cob is ideal when in season, but high-quality frozen corn works beautifully too. Ensure it’s thawed for even cooking and charring.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For charring the corn. This step is vital for developing the “street corn” flavor.
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Provides the creamy base for the street corn dressing.
• 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema: Adds tanginess and richness. Crema is thinner and slightly less tangy, offering a silky texture.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice: Brightens up the entire dish with its zesty acidity. Don’t use bottled lime juice; fresh is key for the vibrant flavor of this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl.
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (such as Ancho chili powder): Ancho chili powder offers a mild, fruity, and smoky heat that’s characteristic of authentic street corn.
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: Reinforces the smoky notes.
• 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese: A dry, salty, and slightly tangy cheese that’s perfect for crumbling over the corn. If unavailable, feta cheese can be a decent substitute in a pinch, though it will alter the flavor profile slightly.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Essential for its fresh, herbaceous flavor and vibrant green color.

For the Rice:

• 1.5 cups uncooked long-grain white rice (like Jasmine or Basmati): These varieties cook up fluffy and separate, perfect for absorbing the flavors of the chicken and street corn.
• 3 cups water: The ideal ratio for perfectly cooked rice.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: To season the rice from within.

For Assembly & Garnish:

• 1 ripe avocado, sliced or diced: Adds a creamy, healthy fat component that beautifully complements the other flavors and textures. Look for an avocado that yields slightly to gentle pressure.
• Lime wedges for serving: A squeeze of fresh lime juice at the end can brighten every component of your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl.
• Optional: Hot sauce or extra fresh cilantro: For those who like an extra kick or more fresh herb flavor.

Necessary Utensils and Equipment:

• Large Skillet or Cast-Iron Pan: Essential for cooking both the chicken and charring the corn. A cast-iron pan will give you a superior sear and char.
• Medium Saucepan with Lid: For cooking the rice. A tight-fitting lid is crucial for perfectly steamed rice.
• Medium Mixing Bowls (2): One for tossing the chicken with spices, and another for mixing the street corn dressing.
• Whisk: For smoothly combining the street corn dressing ingredients.
• Cutting Board: For prepping chicken, avocado, and cilantro.
• Sharp Knife: For cutting chicken, avocado, and chopping cilantro.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient quantities.
• Spatula or Tongs: For flipping chicken and stirring corn.
• Fork: For fluffing the rice.
• Paper Towels: For patting the chicken dry, which helps achieve a better sear.
• Serving Bowls: To beautifully assemble and present your individual Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl portions.
• Citrus Juicer (optional but recommended): To efficiently extract juice from fresh limes.

Having all these components ready before you begin cooking will ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking process, leading to the most delicious Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl possible. This structured approach helps in managing multiple elements of the dish seamlessly.

Detailed Recipe Steps: Crafting Your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Now that you have all your ingredients and tools ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating your incredible Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. Follow these instructions carefully, along with our tips, to ensure a perfect outcome every time.

Step 1: Cook the Rice – The Foundation of Your Bowl

1. Rinse the Rice Thoroughly: Place the 1.5 cups of uncooked long-grain white rice in a fine-mesh sieve. Rinse it under cold running water until the water runs completely clear. This crucial step removes excess starch, preventing sticky or gummy rice and ensuring each grain is fluffy and separate, ideal for your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl.
2. Combine and Boil: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, 3 cups of water, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
3. Simmer to Perfection: As soon as it boils, immediately reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Cover the saucepan tightly with a lid. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed and the rice is tender. Do not lift the lid during this time, as it releases the steam needed for cooking.
4. Rest and Fluff: Once cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat but keep it covered for an additional 5 minutes. This resting period allows the steam to redistribute, resulting in even fluffier rice. Finally, remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork. Set aside, keeping it warm for assembly.

Step 2: Cook the Flavorful Chicken

While your rice is simmering away, you can simultaneously prepare the star protein of your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl – the seasoned chicken.

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the 1.5 pounds of chicken pieces very dry with paper towels. This step is essential for achieving a good sear and browning. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Ensure every piece is evenly coated with the aromatic spice blend.
2. Heat the Skillet: Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Allow it to get hot before adding the chicken, which helps create a beautiful crust.
3. Sear the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook the chicken in two batches. Overcrowding will lower the pan’s temperature and steam the chicken instead of searing it, preventing that desired browning.
4. Cook Through: Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown on all sides and cooked through. To ensure safety, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Do not clean the skillet yet; the flavorful remnants will enhance your street corn!

Step 3: Prepare the Zesty Street Corn

This is where the unique “street corn” flair comes to life for your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl!

1. Char the Corn: In the same skillet used for the chicken (those browned bits add amazing flavor!), add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the 4 cups of corn kernels. Cook over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re looking for the corn to become tender and develop beautiful charred spots – this is what gives it that authentic street corn taste.
2. Whisk the Dressing: While the corn is charring, prepare the creamy dressing. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream (or Mexican crema), 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, and 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Combine Corn and Dressing: Once the corn is perfectly charred, immediately add it to the dressing mixture in the bowl. Stir well to combine, ensuring every kernel is coated in the creamy, zesty sauce.
4. Fold in Cheese and Cilantro: Gently fold in half of the 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese and half of the 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro. This integrates these key ingredients while reserving some for garnish.

Step 4: Assemble Your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

The moment of truth! Bringing all the delicious components together to form your ultimate Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl.

1. Portion the Rice: Divide the warm, fluffed rice evenly among 4-6 serving bowls, depending on your desired portion size.
2. Add Chicken: Top each portion of rice with a generous serving of the cooked, seasoned chicken.
3. Spoon on Street Corn: Spoon a large helping of the prepared street corn mixture next to the chicken in each bowl.
4. Garnish and Serve: Garnish each bowl with slices or diced avocado, the remaining crumbled Cotija cheese, and the remaining fresh cilantro. Serve your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl immediately with extra lime wedges for squeezing and hot sauce, if desired, for an extra kick. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!

Tips and Variations for Your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl recipe is fantastic as is, but it’s also incredibly versatile! Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience and variations to customize it to your taste or dietary needs.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t Skimp on the Char: For the street corn, the slightly charred kernels are what give it that authentic, smoky flavor. Don’t be afraid to let the corn get a little color in the pan. This caramelization is key to a truly great Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl.
• Fresh Lime Juice is Non-Negotiable: While bottled lime juice is convenient, it simply doesn’t compare to the bright, zesty punch of fresh lime. It makes a significant difference in the street corn mixture and as a finishing touch for your bowl.
• Pat Chicken Dry: This seemingly small step is crucial for achieving a good sear on your chicken. Moisture on the surface of the chicken will cause it to steam rather than brown, preventing that delicious crispy exterior.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Whether cooking chicken or charring corn, cooking in batches if your pan isn’t large enough ensures proper browning and even cooking. Overcrowding lowers the pan’s temperature and can lead to less flavorful results.
• Rest the Rice: Allowing the rice to rest, covered, for 5 minutes after cooking helps the grains steam evenly and become perfectly fluffy, not mushy.

Ingredient Alternatives and Variations:

• Protein Swaps:
  • Beef: Use ground beef or steak strips seasoned with the same spices for a hearty alternative.
  • Shrimp: Quick-cooking shrimp can be seasoned and seared for a seafood twist. Check out our Shrimp and Rice Bowl with Pineapple Salsa for more ideas.
  • Plant-Based: For a vegan or vegetarian Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, swap the chicken for black beans, pinto beans, or seasoned tofu/tempeh. Roasted chickpeas are another fantastic option for added texture.
• Grain Alternatives:
  • Brown Rice or Quinoa: For a whole-grain boost, use brown rice (adjust cooking time and water ratio as per package instructions) or quinoa. A Turmeric Rice Bowl could also inspire a unique twist.
  • Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb version, use riced cauliflower as the base.
• Cheese Substitutions: If Cotija cheese is hard to find, crumbled feta cheese is the closest in terms of texture and saltiness, though the flavor is distinct. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan could work in a pinch for saltiness.
• Spice it Up (or Down!):
  • More Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the corn mixture. Diced jalapeños or serrano peppers (seeds removed for less heat) can be added to the corn while charring.
  • Milder: Reduce the chili powder and smoked paprika slightly in both the chicken and corn, or omit hot sauce.
• Add Veggies: Sauté bell peppers or onions with the chicken, or add finely diced red onion to the street corn mixture for extra crunch and pungency. Grilled zucchini or roasted sweet potatoes would also be excellent additions.
• Creaminess Options: If you don’t have sour cream, plain Greek yogurt can be used in the street corn dressing for a tangier, higher-protein alternative.
• Sauce It Up: While the street corn provides plenty of moisture, a drizzle of chipotle mayo, a simple cilantro-lime crema, or even a spicy avocado ranch dressing can elevate your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl even further.

Experimentation is key to making this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl truly your own. Don’t hesitate to play with the ingredients to match your personal preferences and what you have available in your pantry.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Beyond its incredible flavor, the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a powerhouse of nutrition, offering a balanced meal that supports overall well-being. While exact nutritional values can vary based on specific brands, portion sizes, and preparation methods, we can provide estimated benefits and typical values for this hearty dish.

Estimated Nutritional Snapshot (per serving, approximately 4-6 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 550-700 calories per bowl. This provides a substantial amount of energy for a main meal.
• Protein: Roughly 35-45g. The chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, crucial for muscle repair, growth, and satiety.
• Fats: Around 25-35g. This includes healthy fats from olive oil and avocado, as well as fats from mayonnaise, sour cream, and chicken. Avocado specifically contributes monounsaturated fats, known for heart health.
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 50-65g. Primarily from the rice and corn, providing sustained energy.
• Fiber: About 6-10g. Corn and avocado contribute dietary fiber, important for digestive health and blood sugar regulation.
• Sodium: Varies greatly depending on added salt and cheese, but generally around 600-900mg.

Benefits of Key Ingredients:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are fantastic sources of lean protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and boosting satiety, helping you feel fuller for longer. Chicken also provides important B vitamins (like Niacin and B6) and minerals such as phosphorus and selenium.
• Corn: Often misunderstood, corn is a whole grain rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps stabilize blood sugar levels. It also contains valuable antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health. The charring process also enhances its natural sweetness and adds a layer of flavor without excessive fat.
• Rice: Long-grain white rice provides readily available energy, making it an excellent base for a filling meal. While brown rice offers more fiber, white rice is easily digestible and serves as a comforting, neutral canvas for the bold flavors of the street corn and chicken.
• Avocado: A true superfood, avocado is packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels. It’s also an excellent source of dietary fiber, potassium (more than a banana!), Vitamin K, Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin E. Its creamy texture provides a luxurious contrast to the other elements in the bowl.
• Lime Juice: Beyond its zesty flavor, fresh lime juice is a great source of Vitamin C, an essential antioxidant that supports the immune system and skin health.
• Cilantro: This fresh herb adds a burst of freshness and is rich in antioxidants. It’s also known for its potential to support detoxification.
• Spices (Chili Powder, Cumin, Smoked Paprika): These spices not only provide incredible flavor but also contain various health-promoting compounds. Chili powder often contains capsaicin, which has anti-inflammatory properties, while cumin and paprika are sources of antioxidants.

The beauty of this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is that it combines these nutritious ingredients into a single, cohesive meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s a well-rounded dish that provides energy, essential nutrients, and tastes absolutely delicious, making it an ideal choice for a healthy and satisfying dinner.

Conclusion: Embrace the Flavor of Your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl!

We’ve reached the end of our culinary journey, and by now, you should be well on your way to mastering the incredible Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. This recipe truly stands out for its vibrant flavors, comforting textures, and straightforward preparation. It effortlessly combines tender, spice-kissed chicken with the iconic creamy and zesty street corn, all balanced on a bed of fluffy rice, crowned with the richness of avocado and the freshness of cilantro.

This isn’t just another dinner idea; it’s a complete, wholesome meal that brings a taste of authentic Mexican-inspired cuisine right to your kitchen table. We’ve explored why you’ll love its explosive flavors and versatility, why you should definitely try it for its health benefits and ease, and walked through every detailed step to ensure your success. From precise ingredient lists to crucial cooking tips like patting chicken dry and charring corn, you’re now equipped with all the knowledge to create a truly spectacular Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl.

Remember the simple variations and tips we discussed, from switching up your protein to adjusting the spice level. This recipe is designed to be adaptable, so feel free to make it your own! The nutritional benefits, offering lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber, only add to its appeal as a go-to weeknight meal or a delightful dish for entertaining.

We encourage you to dive in and try this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl for yourself. Experience the harmony of flavors and textures that make this dish so special. And once you do, we’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, your successes, and any creative variations you come up with in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this article with friends and family who are looking for their next favorite meal. You can also find more delicious recipe inspiration by following us on Pinterest, where we share exciting dishes like this Easy Mediterranean Chicken Bowl and other delightful creations. Happy cooking, and enjoy every flavorful bite of your Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl!

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

This vibrant Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl brings the irresistible flavors of Mexican street corn (Elote) to a satisfying, protein-packed meal, combining juicy seasoned chicken, charred corn, fluffy rice, and creamy avocado.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American, Mexican-Inspired

Servings 4 servings

Calories 680 kcal

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Large skillet
• Medium Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.25 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Street Corn

• 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels if frozen, thawed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 0.25 cup mayonnaise
• 0.25 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 0.5 teaspoon chili powder such as Ancho chili powder
• 0.25 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 0.5 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
• 0.25 cup chopped fresh cilantro

For the Rice

• 1.5 cups uncooked long-grain white rice like Jasmine or Basmati
• 3 cups water
• 0.5 teaspoon salt

For Assembly & Garnish

• 1 ripe avocado sliced or diced
• Lime wedges for serving
• Hot sauce or extra fresh cilantro Optional

Instructions

 

Instructions

• 1. Cook the Rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
• 2. Cook the Chicken: While the rice cooks, pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and set aside.
• 3. Prepare the Street Corn: In the same skillet used for the chicken (no need to clean it, the flavor is good!), add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the corn kernels and cook over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is tender and slightly charred in spots. While the corn cooks, in a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and smoked paprika until smooth. Add the cooked corn to the dressing mixture and stir to combine. Gently fold in half of the crumbled Cotija cheese and half of the fresh cilantro.
• 4. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice evenly among 4-6 serving bowls. Top each portion of rice with a generous serving of the cooked chicken. Spoon a large helping of the street corn mixture next to the chicken. Garnish each bowl with slices or diced avocado, the remaining crumbled Cotija cheese, and the remaining fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges and hot sauce, if desired.

Notes

For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning. You can also make this recipe ahead of time: prepare the chicken and corn, store separately, and reheat gently before assembling. For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for black beans or grilled halloumi cheese. Add some diced bell peppers to the corn for extra crunch and color.

Keyword chicken, corn, delicious, easy, one-bowl meal, quick, rice, weeknight dinner