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Tasty Street Corn Chicken Bowl Recipe

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4.2 from 46 reviews

This Tasty Street Corn Chicken Bowl combines juicy, marinated chicken thighs with a flavorful street corn mix, served over warm fluffy rice. The dish is bursting with zesty lime, smoky chili powder, creamy Cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro, offering a vibrant and satisfying meal inspired by Mexican street food.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the marinated chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1 tbsp avocado oil
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder or 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper

For the street corn mix:

  • 1 cup sweet corn kernels (grilled or sautéed from frozen)
  • 1/4 cup sliced red onion
  • 1/2 cup sour cream, separated
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese, plus extra for topping
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper, as needed
  • 1 tbsp lime juice (to taste)

For serving:

  • 3 cups prepared rice
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
  • Lime wedges (from 1 lime)
  • Reserved sour cream and Cotija cheese, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine lime juice, avocado oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder or minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes to let the flavors infuse.
  2. Cook the chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil if necessary. Place the marinated chicken thighs in the skillet and sear for 8 to 10 minutes per side until fully cooked and nicely browned. Remove the chicken and let it rest 5 to 10 minutes before slicing into strips to retain juiciness.
  3. Prepare the street corn mix: In a bowl, combine the sweet corn kernels, sliced red onion, half of the sour cream, mayonnaise, Cotija cheese, chili powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Stir well to combine. This can be prepared while the chicken cooks.
  4. Warm the rice: Place the prepared rice in a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan with a splash of water. Heat until warm and fluffy, fluffing with a fork. Optionally stir in some chopped cilantro for extra flavor.
  5. Assemble the bowls: Divide the warm rice among serving bowls. Top with sliced chicken and a generous scoop of the street corn mix. Sprinkle additional Cotija cheese and fresh cilantro leaves on top. Garnish with lime wedges and a drizzle of reserved sour cream. For extra zing, add a sprinkle of Tajín or chili powder if desired. Serve warm with an extra squeeze of lime.

Notes

  • Letting the chicken rest after cooking keeps it juicy and tender.
  • You can grill or sauté the corn kernels depending on availability and preference.
  • Adjust chili powder and lime juice in the street corn mix to suit your taste.
  • Adding chopped cilantro to rice adds an aromatic freshness but is optional.
  • Tajín or extra chili powder makes a nice spicy garnish but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
  • Author: Adeline
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican-inspired