This street corn chicken rice bowl starts with tender chicken thighs, grilled corn, creamy Cotija cheese, and a tangy lime sauce for a fresh, customizable meal. Add your favorite toppings like avocado, black beans, or extra cilantro to make it your own.
1cupsweet corn kernels grilled, if possible - frozen
1/4cupthinly sliced red onion
1/2cupsour cream
2tbspmayonnaise
1/2cupCotija cheese crumbled (plus extra for garnish)
1tspchili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1lime cut into wedges
For the Rice and Assembly:
3cupscooked rice
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Season and marinate the chicken:
Combine lime juice, avocado oil, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat 4 chicken thighs and marinate for 15-30 minutes in the fridge.
Cook the chicken:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 8-10 minutes per side until done. Rest, then slice.
Prepare the street corn topping:
Mix 1 cup grilled corn, 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion, 1/2 cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, and 1 teaspoon chili powder. Add salt, pepper, and lime juice to taste.
Prepare the rice:
Reheat 3 cups cooked rice with a splash of water until warm and fluffy.
Assemble the bowls:
Add rice, sliced chicken, street corn topping, extra Cotija, and cilantro to each bowl. Garnish with lime wedges.
Serve:
Serve warm with an optional squeeze of lime.
Notes
TipsChar the CornFor deeper flavor, grill or cook the corn in a hot skillet until slightly charred. This adds a smoky taste that pairs well with the creamy toppings.
Use Fresh Lime JuiceFresh lime juice in both the marinade and the street corn topping brightens the dish and balances the richness of the sour cream and mayo.
Reheat Rice with WaterWhen reheating rice, add a splash of water to keep it fluffy and prevent it from drying out.
Add Extra HeatFor a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeño or a sprinkle of cayenne to the street corn topping.
Extra Topping IdeasDiced Avocado or GuacamoleAdds creaminess and a rich flavor that balances the smoky and spicy elements in the bowl.
Pico de GalloFresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro add a bright, juicy element.
Sliced JalapeñosFresh or pickled jalapeños bring heat and a nice tang.
Shredded LettuceAdds crunch and a refreshing contrast to the warm rice and chicken.
Radish SlicesThinly sliced radishes bring a mild peppery crunch.
Sliced Green OnionsAdds a mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Hot Sauce or SrirachaA drizzle of hot sauce or sriracha adds extra spice for those who love heat.