Ingredients
Scale
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients — fresh, vibrant corn, quality chicken breasts, and a few pantry staples come together to build flavor without complexity. I always encourage using fresh corn when it’s in season, but frozen kernels work well too, especially when time is tight. Choosing good-quality chicken and seasoning it thoughtfully makes all the difference here, ensuring juicy results that pair perfectly with the creamy sauce and zesty toppings.
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Optional: sliced jalapeños or hot sauce for extra kick
Instructions
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let them rest while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- In the same skillet, add the corn kernels and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is slightly charred and fragrant.
- While the corn cooks, prepare the sauce by mixing mayonnaise, lime juice, and half of the cilantro in a small bowl.
- To assemble, spoon rice into bowls, top with sliced chicken, then the charred corn mixture. Drizzle with the mayo-lime sauce.
- Sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese, remaining cilantro, and optional jalapeños or hot sauce for some heat.
- Serve immediately, enjoying the vibrant flavors and comforting textures.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: Mexican Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, recipe, cooking, food
