The Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is the weeknight dinner hero I can’t stop making, and I’m so excited to share it with you! This gorgeous bowl borrows everything we love about classic street corn—smoky grilled kernels, creamy cheese, zippy lime—and pairs it with juicy marinated chicken and fluffy jasmine rice. Every bite delivers a medley of bold flavors and satisfying textures that somehow feels equal parts festive, nourishing, and fun. Best of all, it comes together with simple ingredients you probably already have, making this bowl both meal-prep friendly and perfect for impromptu gatherings. Get ready to transform your regular dinner routine with the Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl!

Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl shines with just a handful of fresh, vibrant components. Each ingredient plays its part, from juicy chicken marinated with spices and citrus to the sweet, creamy, tangy street corn topping. Here’s what you’ll need (and why it matters!):

Chicken Thighs: Juicy, flavorful, and quick-cooking, but you can also use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat.
Lime Juice: Adds freshness and zing to both the marinade and the street corn topping.
Avocado Oil: Gives the marinade richness and helps the chicken crisp up beautifully, though olive oil works too.
Chili Powder: Infuses smoky, subtle heat that’s classic to street corn and pairs perfectly with chicken.
Garlic Powder: Optional, but gives the chicken a punch of savory flavor.
Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning every element just right.
Sweet Corn Kernels: Grilled if possible, for that signature charred sweetness that makes this bowl irresistible.
Red Onion: Optional, but adds a crisp, assertive bite to contrast the creaminess.
Sour Cream: Brings tang and creaminess to the street corn mixture (Greek yogurt is a great swap).
Mayonnaise: The secret to that luscious, classic street corn texture.
Cotija Cheese: Crumbly, salty, and bold—feta or queso fresco will also work beautifully.
Extra Chili Powder: For sprinkling into the corn topping and over the finished bowl. Layers the spice!
Extra Lime Juice: For a final zesty touch in the corn salad and at serving.
Cooked Jasmine Rice: Fluffy, aromatic, and perfect for soaking up all the toppings. Any rice (or even cauliflower rice) will do.
Fresh Cilantro: Optional, but adds a fresh, herbal pop over top.
Lime Wedges: For squeezing and adding real street cart vibes at the table.

How to Make Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by building the foundation of flavor for your Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl right here. In a bowl, whisk together the lime juice, avocado oil, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat them completely—let the citrus, spice, and oil work their magic. Give the marinade at least 15 to 30 minutes to soak in (and yes, you can totally let it hang out longer if you’re planning ahead), which ensures every bite is tender and packed with personality.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high and cook the marinated chicken thighs for about 8 to 10 minutes per side. You want them golden and with a little caramelized color. Once cooked through, set aside to rest. That resting time keeps your chicken juicy when you slice it into strips or chunky bite-sized pieces—just what you want in a hearty rice bowl.

Step 3: Make the Street Corn Topping

While your chicken rests, turn your attention to the jewel of this Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl: the irresistible street corn topping. In a clean bowl, combine your sweet corn kernels (grilled ones are a bonus!), optional red onion, sour cream, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder, salt and pepper, and a good squeeze of lime juice. Stir everything together until creamy, then taste and adjust the seasoning—this topping is what turns a basic bowl into a wow-worthy meal!

Step 4: Reheat the Rice

If you’re using leftover or refrigerated rice, this is the moment to revive it. Add a splash of water and reheat in the microwave or in a pan over low heat, fluffing with a fork. Fluffy hot rice is crucial, since it will catch all the juicy chicken drippings and creamy corn as you layer the bowl.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Now for the best part—assembly! Spoon a generous base of warm jasmine rice into each bowl. Top with the sliced chicken, a hearty scoop of that luscious street corn mixture, sprinkle more cotija cheese and cilantro over the top, and finish each bowl with a lime wedge. The contrast of creamy, zesty, smoky, and fresh all on a bed of rice is pure dinnertime magic.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Just before serving, encourage everyone to squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for one last hit of brightness. Then it’s time to dig in—the flavors and textures in your Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl are best enjoyed straight from the bowl, fork in hand, with plenty of napkins around.

How to Serve Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Garnishes

Don’t skimp on the finishing touches! A sprinkle of extra cotija cheese, a handful of fresh cilantro, and a dusting of chili powder take your Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl from delicious to downright stunning. Lime wedges are a must on the side, letting everyone dial up the zest to their liking.

Side Dishes

Honestly, this bowl is a star all on its own, but if you’re spreading out a feast or looking to round things out, consider serving it with a fresh tomato salad, simple black beans, or crispy tortilla chips on the side. I love a chilled agua fresca or iced tea to sip alongside—so refreshing!

Creative Ways to Present

For party vibes, try serving your Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl bar-style: set out all the components in individual bowls and let everyone build their own. Or, layer everything into a large platter for sharing family-style. If you’re looking to pack a quick lunch, scoop everything into a meal-prep container and enjoy it later—a sure-fire way to beat any midday slump.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got extra? Pop leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. The Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl holds up beautifully for up to 3 days, and the flavors meld and deepen overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch even better than tonight’s dinner.

Freezing

While the chicken and rice freeze well for up to 2 months, leave the street corn topping out and add it fresh after thawing for the best texture. Simply cool the rice and chicken completely, portion as you like, and freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.

Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave the chicken and rice together until piping hot, or warm them gently on the stove with a splash of water to keep the rice moist. Top with freshly made street corn salad and a squeeze of lime for that just-made flavor, even days later.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well if you prefer a leaner option—just keep an eye on the cooking time, since they can dry out more quickly than thighs. The marinade keeps either cut flavorful and juicy.

What’s the best way to grill the corn?

If you have a grill, toss whole ears of corn right on the grates and char until lightly blackened, then slice off the kernels. No grill? Use a grill pan or even broil the corn kernels on a baking sheet for a few minutes until golden.

Is there a dairy-free option for the street corn topping?

Yes! Try swapping in dairy-free mayonnaise and a plant-based yogurt for the creamy part, and skip the cheese or use your favorite dairy-free crumbly cheese alternative.

Can I make the Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl ahead of time?

Definitely. You can prep every component in advance—the chicken can be cooked and sliced, the rice stored separately, and the corn topping mixed up. Assemble just before eating for the best fresh flavors.

What other proteins can I use?

Feel free to substitute shrimp, grilled steak, or even tofu for the chicken. The marinade and street corn topping are super versatile and complement all sorts of proteins, making this bowl endlessly adaptable.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl finds a happy place in your dinner rotation! Each bite is a celebration—vibrant, bold, and endlessly customizable. Try it out, have fun with the toppings, and let it inspire your next weeknight feast. Happy cooking!