When you’re craving something flavorful, satisfying, and simple to make, this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is the answer. Inspired by Mexican street corn (elote), this dish combines juicy grilled chicken, aromatic rice, creamy avocado, fresh lime, and a generous dusting of cheese and chili powder. It’s a quick weeknight dinner that packs layers of taste, texture, and nutrition in every bite.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or putting together a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe delivers on all fronts—easy, healthy, and packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes
- Customizable: Great for low-carb, dairy-free, or vegetarian diets
- Meal-prep friendly: Perfect for lunchboxes or next-day leftovers
- Flavor-packed: Inspired by classic street corn with a tangy, creamy twist
Ingredients List
To make the perfect Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, gather the following:
- 1 pound chicken breast (boneless, skinless)
- 1 cup rice (jasmine or basmati for best texture and aroma)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained)
- 1 large avocado, diced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- ½ cup Cotija or feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Substitution Ideas:
- Protein swap: Use grilled tofu or turkey instead of chicken
- Low-carb option: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa
- Dairy-free: Choose a plant-based cheese alternative or omit cheese entirely
- Herb variation: Try parsley if you’re not a fan of cilantro
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Begin by cooking 1 cup of jasmine or basmati rice according to package instructions. For extra flavor, you can cook the rice in chicken broth instead of water. Set aside once done and keep warm.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and half of the chili powder. Grill or sauté over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice it into strips or cubes.
Step 3: Cook the Corn
In the same pan, add the corn kernels and cook for 3–4 minutes until lightly charred. If using canned corn, drain thoroughly before cooking.
Step 4: Build the Bowl
In each serving bowl, layer the base with a scoop of warm rice. Top with grilled chicken, corn, diced avocado, and crumbled cheese. Sprinkle on the remaining chili powder, fresh chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Finish with a pinch of salt and pepper. For extra creaminess, add a dollop of sour cream or drizzle with Mexican crema.
Optional Toppings and Add-Ons
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy finish
- Hot sauce or sriracha for heat
- Pickled red onions for tang
- Black beans for added protein and fiber
- Fresh tomato salsa for brightness
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the chicken – Letting it rest after cooking keeps it juicy.
- Use fresh lime – It adds a bright zing that elevates all other ingredients.
- Char the corn for authentic street corn flavor.
- Mix it all together before eating to get a bit of everything in each bite.
Meal Prep Instructions
This bowl is excellent for meal prep. Simply store each component in an airtight container:
- Keep rice, chicken, and corn together (microwave-safe).
- Store avocado and fresh toppings separately to add after reheating.
- Stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Nutritional Breakdown (Approx. Per Serving – 4 Servings)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 2g
Note: Values vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Why This Bowl Is a Winner
This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl gives you everything in one: protein, grains, healthy fats, and flavor. It’s fresh, filling, and flexible enough to suit all diets. Whether you’re eating clean, looking for comfort, or just want something that’s fast and easy—this bowl delivers.
From family dinners to solo lunches, it’s the kind of meal you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again.
