Thank you for being here! I’m beyond excited to share this Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe with you—it’s the kind of meal that hits every craving at once. We’re talking juicy spiced chicken, charred corn, creamy cotija-lime dressing, and fresh toppings, all layered over fluffy rice. It’s inspired by Mexican street corn (elote) and turned into the ultimate all-in-one bowl. Easy, satisfying, and anything but boring!!

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What Is a Loaded Street Corn Chicken Bowl?

It’s basically everything you love about elote—but in a hearty rice bowl! This dish layers warm rice with seasoned chicken, charred corn tossed in a creamy lime mayo sauce, fresh herbs, and a little cheese. Think of it as Mexican street corn meets your favorite burrito bowl. It’s smoky, creamy, a little tangy, and totally filling.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Meal prep friendly and great for lunch or dinner
Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins
Smoky, spicy, and creamy all in one bowl
Naturally gluten-free
On the table in under 40 minutes

What It Tastes Like

Every bite is creamy, zesty, and layered with flavor—sweet corn, bold spices, juicy chicken, and tangy lime. The cotija cheese gives it a salty punch, while the creamy sauce ties everything together with just a hint of heat. It’s rich without being heavy and so satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

The Street Corn:

2 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned—drained)
1 tbsp mayo
1 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt
Juice of ½ lime
¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese
1 tbsp chopped cilantro
Optional: pinch of chili powder or Tajín

The Bowl:

2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or Mexican-style)
Diced avocado or guacamole
Extra cotija cheese and cilantro
Lime wedges for serving
Optional: pickled onions, jalapeños, hot sauce

Tools You’ll Need

Cast iron skillet or nonstick pan (for charring corn + chicken)
Mixing bowls
Sharp knife + cutting board
Tongs or spatula
Rice cooker or pot

Optional Additions & Substitutions

Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a lighter or vegetarian version
Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter sauce
Add black beans, pinto beans, or chopped lettuce for more bulk
Try cauliflower rice for a low-carb version
Love spice? Top with jalapeños, hot sauce, or chipotle crema

How to Make Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowls

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Season chicken with spices, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Let rest, then slice or chop.

Step 2: Char the Corn

In the same skillet (wipe out if needed), add corn and cook over medium-high heat until slightly charred. No oil needed—just dry pan for that toasty flavor!

Step 3: Mix the Corn Sauce

In a bowl, combine mayo, sour cream, lime juice, cotija, cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder. Stir in the charred corn until coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Add rice to the bottom of each bowl. Top with sliced chicken, street corn mixture, avocado, extra cotija, cilantro, and lime wedges. Serve warm and dig in!

What to Serve With It

Tortilla chips or warm corn tortillas
Simple green salad with citrus vinaigrette
Mexican slaw for a crunchy side
Or pair it with these flavorful favorites:
- Chicken & Waffles with Blueberry Syrup – for a savory-sweet combo night
- Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce – for a fancy surf-n-turf dinner
- Beetroot Ricotta Cheese Spread – for a pop of color and creamy contrast on the side

Tips for Next-Level Bowls

Let the chicken rest before slicing—it locks in all the juices
Use day-old rice for the best texture
Char the corn in batches so it gets toasty, not soggy
Store leftover street corn and chicken separately if meal prepping

Storage & Reheating

Fridge: Store in airtight containers up to 4 days
Reheat: Microwave or stovetop with a splash of water
Meal prep tip: Assemble rice + chicken in advance, add corn and toppings fresh for max texture

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use vegan mayo, skip the cheese, and swap sour cream with a dairy-free option.

Can I grill the chicken instead?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken adds amazing smoky flavor.

Is this spicy?

It has mild warmth from the chili and paprika, but you can dial it up or down with more or less spice.

Wrapping It All Up

This Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is everything you want in a meal—bright, creamy, smoky, and packed with texture. Whether you’re meal prepping or serving it fresh off the stove, it brings all the elote magic in one simple, satisfying bowl.

Looking for more bold, feel-good recipes? Try these:

Made this bowl? I have to see it! 🌽🍗
Tag me on Pinterest @TheKitchenJoyy and use #Mmmrecipes to show off your creation. I’ll be cheering you on (and probably craving another bowl myself)!