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+ servings
image of fresh chicken breasts corn kernels white rice mayonnaise sour cream cotija cheese limes cilantro red onion jalapeño avocado black beans arranged on white marble kitchen counter with clear glass bowls and rustic brown wooden kitchen sets under soft diffuse daylight
C. Motter Cindy

Tasty Street Corn Chicken Bowl

This recipe marries the smoky, creamy, tangy delight of traditional street corn with juicy, perfectly cooked chicken and fluffy rice, resulting in a complete, satisfying meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs 1.5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 tsp 1 chili powder
  • 1 tsp 1 cumin
  • 1/2 tsp 0.5 salt and pepper each
  • 1 tbsp 1 olive oil
For the Street Corn Topping (Elote Style)
  • 4 cups 4 corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained and patted dry)
  • 1/2 cup 0.5 mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter option)
  • 1/4 cup 0.25 sour cream (or more Greek yogurt)
  • 1/4 cup 0.25 fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 cup 0.5 cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta or queso fresco)
  • 1/4 cup 0.25 fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 small 1 jalapeño, finely diced (optional, for kick)
  • 1/2 tsp 0.5 garlic powder
  • pinch pinch cayenne pepper or paprika
For the Bowls
  • 4 cups 4 cooked cilantro-lime rice, jasmine rice, or brown rice
  • For optional toppings black beans, sliced avocado, or salsa

Equipment

  • Large skillet or grill pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk or fork for mixing dressing

Method
 

Prepare the Chicken
  1. Slice the chicken breasts or thighs thinly, about 1/2 inch thick, to ensure quick and even cooking. Toss the chicken pieces in a bowl with the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is evenly coated in the seasoning.
  2. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 4 to 6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the chicken is browned, thoroughly cooked, and juicy with an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from the pan and dice into bite-sized pieces; set aside and keep warm.
  3. Using the residual oil and heat in the same skillet (or add a teaspoon of fresh oil if needed), add the corn kernels. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5 to 8 minutes, aiming for a beautiful, golden-brown char on some kernels. This char is essential for smoky flavor.
  4. While the corn is charring, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), sour cream, lime juice, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper in a medium bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning; add a splash of milk or water if too thick, or more lime juice if needed.
  5. Remove the charred corn from the heat and stir it immediately into the creamy dressing. Add the chopped cilantro, crumbled cotija cheese, and diced jalapeño (if using). Stir gently until combined.
  6. Start with a generous base of warm rice in each bowl. Add a portion of the seasoned diced chicken over the rice. Spoon a hearty serving of the creamy street corn mixture over the top. Garnish with extra cilantro, a sprinkle of chili powder or Tajín, and a fresh lime wedge. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 35gFat: 25g

Notes

Pro Tips: For maximum char, let corn sit undisturbed briefly before stirring. Use precooked rotisserie chicken for faster prep. Variations: Swap mayo for Greek yogurt for a healthier version; make vegetarian with tofu or black beans. Store rice and chicken separately for meal prep; reheat base first, then add cold topping to avoid sogginess. Storage: Keep components in airtight containers in fridge for up to 4 days.
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