Name: Tasty Street Corn Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts or thighs; 1 cup corn kernels; 2 cups cooked white rice; 1/4 cup diced red onion; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1 lime, cut into wedges; 1/3 cup sour cream or Mexican crema; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 teaspoon chopped cilantro (for crema); 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Craving a bold, flavor-packed meal that hits every craving in one bowl? This Tasty Street Corn Chicken Bowl is a street food-inspired dish you can recreate right at home—loaded with smoky grilled chicken, sweet corn, tangy lime crema, and vibrant toppings over fluffy rice. It’s the kind of recipe that balances comfort with freshness and never fails to impress.

Each spoonful brings a satisfying mix of textures and flavor—the juicy spice-crusted chicken, the slight crunch of charred corn, and the zesty zip of lime. Whether you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine or want something exciting to meal prep, this bowl brings serious flavor with minimal fuss.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into your ingredient list, having the right kitchen tools can make this recipe seamless and enjoyable. Here’s what you need:

Cast Iron Skillet or Grill Pan: For getting that irresistible char and smoky sear on the chicken and corn, a cast iron skillet or grill pan is essential. It creates that street-style flavor at home.
Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a few to marinate the chicken and mix the crema.
Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: Essential for prepping garnishes like red onion, lime wedges, and herbs.
Tongs or Spatula: Helps in flipping the chicken evenly without tearing.
Serving Bowls: Wide, shallow bowls work best for layering the rice, corn, chicken, and toppings beautifully.

Ingredients for the Tasty Street Corn Chicken Bowl

Chicken Breast or Thighs: The protein centerpiece, marinated and seared for a smoky, bold flavor.
Corn Kernels: Fresh, canned, or frozen corn adds a sweet pop that balances the spice.
Cooked White Rice: A neutral, fluffy base that soaks up every juicy bite.
Red Onion: Offers sharpness and crunch; optional to pickle it for a tangy edge.
Fresh Cilantro: For a fresh, herby finish that complements the bold flavors.
Lime Wedges: A must for zippy brightness.
Crema or Sour Cream with Lime Juice and Cilantro: This creamy drizzle ties the whole bowl together.
Spices (Chili Powder, Paprika, Cumin, Garlic Powder, Salt): These add depth, heat, and color to the chicken.

How To Make the Tasty Street Corn Chicken Bowl

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Coat your chicken thoroughly and let it marinate for at least 15–20 minutes (up to overnight).

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Using a hot cast iron skillet or grill pan, sear the chicken on each side until it’s deeply golden with a slight char. Cook through, then let rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Char the Corn

Add corn to the same skillet and cook until kernels start to brown and blister slightly. This brings out the natural sweetness and a smoky layer.

Step 4: Make the Lime Crema

In a small bowl, mix sour cream or crema with lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Thin with water if needed for drizzling.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

Layer a bowl with a scoop of rice, followed by charred corn, then the sliced chicken. Add red onion, a drizzle of crema, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges.

How to Serve and Store This Bowl

Serve this dish warm, immediately after assembly, to enjoy the contrast between hot chicken and cool crema. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or prepping a few bowls ahead of time.

To store, keep ingredients in separate containers: the cooked chicken, corn, and rice can be refrigerated up to 4 days. Assemble just before eating to maintain texture. The crema lasts about 3 days in the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this recipe?

You can easily control the heat. Reduce chili powder or skip extra hot spices if you’re sensitive.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely. Just season it a bit with the spice mix before reheating and serving.

Can I swap the rice for something else?

Yes! Quinoa, cauliflower rice, or greens work great.

Is this bowl good for meal prep?

Very much so. Store the ingredients separately and combine when ready to eat.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Try a dairy-free yogurt or vegan sour cream alternative for the crema.

Can I grill the chicken outdoors?

Of course! Outdoor grilling adds another layer of smoky flavor.

Want More Chicken Bowl Ideas?

If this Tasty Street Corn Chicken Bowl has you hooked on bold bowls, I’ve got more for you!

Try the spicy and sweet combo in my Air Fryer Honey BBQ Explosion Chicken or dive into the cozy comfort of One Pot Spicy BBQ Chicken Cheeseburger Pasta.

For even more smoky vibes, the One Pan Smoky Spicy Chicken Rice Bake could be your next go-to. Want a fun spin? Don’t miss the Air Fryer Crispy Honey Sriracha Chicken Bites or Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta for something richer.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you try it, I’d love to hear about it! Did you add extra toppings? Swap the protein? Leave a comment below. And if you’re hunting for daily kitchen inspiration, you can find more on my Pinterest: LadyPlate.