Ingredients
Scale
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients that bring out the vibrancy of street corn with the comforting warmth of chicken and rice. I like to choose fresh corn when it’s in season, but frozen works beautifully too. For the chicken, I prefer boneless, skinless thighs because they stay juicy and flavorful, but breasts are a fine substitute if that’s what you have on hand. Fresh lime, a touch of smoky chili powder, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese really elevate the flavors, making this dish feel special without complicating the prep.
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (day-old rice works great)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 2 ears fresh corn, kernels removed (or 1½ cups frozen corn)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: diced jalapeño for extra heat
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
- In the same skillet, add the corn kernels and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly charred and tender. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
- Remove the corn from heat and mix in mayonnaise, lime juice, cotija cheese, and cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- To assemble, layer cooked rice at the bottom of your bowl. Top with sliced chicken and a generous scoop of the street corn mixture.
- If desired, sprinkle with extra cheese, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime. Add jalapeño for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe, recipe, cooking, food
