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Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

This vibrant and customizable rice bowl features tender, seasoned chicken thighs, smoky grilled corn, creamy Cotija cheese, and a tangy lime sauce. Bursting with fresh, bold flavors, it's perfect for lunch or dinner. Add your favorite toppings like avocado, black beans, or cilantro to make it your own!
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Servings: 1 bowl
Calories: 512kcal

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Street Corn Topping:

  • 1 cup sweet corn kernels grilled, if possible; frozen works too
  • ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • ½ cup Cotija cheese crumbled (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lime cut into wedges
  • For the Rice and Assembly:
  • 3 cups cooked rice
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Season and Marinate the Chicken

  • In a bowl, mix lime juice, avocado oil, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  • Coat the chicken thighs in the marinade and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

  • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Cook the chicken for 8-10 minutes per side, until fully cooked and golden brown.
  • Remove from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.

Prepare the Street Corn Topping

  • In a bowl, combine grilled corn, red onion, sour cream, mayonnaise, Cotija cheese, and chili powder.
  • Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lime juice to taste.

Prepare the Rice

  • Reheat cooked rice with a splash of water until warm and fluffy.

Assemble the Bowls

  • Divide the warm rice into serving bowls.
  • Top with sliced chicken and a generous portion of the street corn topping.
  • Sprinkle extra Cotija cheese and fresh cilantro.
  • Garnish with lime wedges.

Serve

  • Serve warm with an optional squeeze of lime juice.

Notes

Char the Corn: Grill or cook the corn in a hot skillet until slightly charred for extra smoky flavor.
Use Fresh Lime Juice: Brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the sour cream and mayo.
Reheat Rice Properly: Add a splash of water when reheating rice to keep it fluffy and moist.
Add Extra Heat: Include chopped jalapeño or a sprinkle of cayenne for a spicy kick.
Optional Toppings:
Diced Avocado or Guacamole – Adds creaminess and richness.
Pico de Gallo – Brings a bright, juicy element.
Sliced Jalapeños – Fresh or pickled jalapeños add heat and tang.
Shredded Lettuce – Provides crunch and a refreshing contrast.
Radish Slices – Adds a mild, peppery crunch.
Sliced Green Onions – Complements the flavors with a mild onion taste.
Hot Sauce or Sriracha – A drizzle of hot sauce adds extra spice.