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Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

A vibrant Mexican-inspired bowl featuring juicy spiced chicken, smoky charred street corn, cilantro-lime rice, and creamy lime crema. Perfect for weeknight dinners and meal prep.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 590

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cups corn kernels fresh, frozen, or canned
  • 2 tablespoons butter melted
  • 1/2 cup cotija cheese crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon Tajín seasoning optional
  • 2 cups white or brown rice uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice for crema
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper optional

Equipment

  • Cast iron or nonstick skillet
  • Sheet pan
  • Rice cooker or pot with lid
  • meat thermometer
  • sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Cook rice in chicken broth according to package directions. While it simmers, fluff with a fork once done and stir in cilantro and lime zest. Keep warm until serving.
  2. Pat chicken completely dry with paper towels. Mix chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub spice mixture evenly over both sides of chicken. Let sit 10 minutes if possible.
  3. Heat skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from heat and let rest 5 minutes before slicing.
  4. While chicken rests, spread corn kernels on a baking sheet and toss with melted butter. Broil on high for 4-5 minutes, stir, then broil 3-4 minutes more until lightly charred. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  5. Immediately toss hot charred corn with lime juice, crumbled cotija cheese, and Tajín seasoning if using.
  6. Whisk together sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, lime juice, minced garlic, and cayenne pepper if using. Thin with water or milk until it reaches drizzle consistency. Season with salt to taste.
  7. To assemble bowls: Add a generous scoop of cilantro-lime rice to each bowl. Top with sliced chicken and charred street corn. Drizzle creamy lime crema over the top.
  8. Garnish with optional toppings such as black beans, diced avocado, pico de gallo, jalapeño slices, or extra cilantro as desired.

Notes

Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving than breasts. Use fresh corn for best flavor, but frozen works great if thawed and dried completely. Store components separately for up to 3-4 days. For meal prep, cook chicken and corn ahead, then make fresh rice during the week.
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