Try This Zesty Mexican Street Corn Chicken Bowl Recipe Today

Whipping up a mouthwatering mexican street corn chicken bowl will transport you straight to the bustling streets of mexico city.

Kernels of sweet corn dance alongside tender, seasoned chicken in this flavor-packed culinary adventure.

Street food inspiration meets home cooking comfort with every colorful bite.

Zesty spices and creamy elements create a symphony of tastes that sing with authenticity.

Fresh ingredients come together effortlessly, promising a meal that delights both eyes and palate.

Bold flavors and simple preparation make this recipe a weeknight champion that everyone will crave.

Dive into this delectable bowl and let your taste buds celebrate a true culinary journey.

FAQs for Mexican Street Corn Chicken Bowls

• What are the key spices in the chicken marinade?

The key spices include chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, which create a bold and flavorful Mexican-inspired seasoning for the chicken.

• Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?

Yes, you can use frozen corn. Thaw and pat it dry before charring in the skillet to achieve a similar roasted flavor and texture as fresh corn kernels.

• Is cotija cheese necessary for the street corn topping?

While cotija cheese adds authentic Mexican flavor, you can substitute it with feta cheese or queso fresco if cotija is unavailable. Each cheese will provide a slightly different but delicious taste.

• How spicy is this dish?

The recipe has a mild to moderate spice level from chili powder.

Why You’ll Be Hooked on Street Corn Chicken Bowls

• Burst with Flavor: Packed with bold Mexican-inspired spices and charred corn that create an explosion of taste in every single bite.
• Quick Weeknight Winner: Requires minimal prep time and uses simple ingredients, making it perfect for busy families seeking delicious dinner solutions.
• Customizable Meal Magic: Allows easy personalization with optional toppings like avocado and jalapeños, ensuring everyone can craft their ideal plate.
• Nutritional Powerhouse: Combines protein-rich chicken, fresh corn, and vibrant herbs for a balanced meal that satisfies hunger and nutrition needs.

Ingredients for That Mexican Bowl Flavor Explosion

Main Ingredients:

• Chicken: A tender and flavorful protein that serves as the primary component of the Mexican street corn bowl.

• Rice: A fluffy and seasoned foundation that provides a delicious backdrop for the other ingredients.

• Corn Kernels: Fresh corn that adds a sweet and charred flavor to the dish.
• Cotija Cheese: A crumbly Mexican cheese that brings a tangy and salty element to the street corn mixture.
• Mayonnaise: A creamy ingredient that helps bind the street corn topping together.
• Sour Cream: A rich and smooth component that adds depth to the street corn mixture.

Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:

• Chili Powder, Smoked Paprika, Cumin, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: A blend of spices that infuses the chicken with bold and complex Mexican-inspired flavors.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Lime Juice: A bright and zesty ingredient that adds freshness and acidity to both the chicken and rice.
• Cilantro: A fragrant herb that provides a classic Mexican touch to the dish.

Additional Components:

• Olive Oil: A versatile oil used for marinating chicken and cooking corn.
• Butter: A rich ingredient that adds flavor to the rice.

• Avocado, Jalapeños, Lime Wedges: Customizable garnishes that allow personal flavor preferences.

Making Your Own Street Corn Chicken Bowl

Step 1: Marinate Chicken With Flavor Explosion

• Olive oil
• Chili powder
• Smoked paprika
• Cumin
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Toss diced chicken thoroughly in the marinade and let it rest in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to absorb all the incredible spices.

Step 2: Create Charred Street Corn Magic

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Charred corn
• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream
• Cotija cheese
• Chili powder
• Fresh lime juice
• Chopped cilantro

Mix everything together and set aside for later.

Step 3: Sizzle Chicken To Perfection

Heat skillet over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken pieces for 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are completely cooked through.

Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes to retain juiciness.

Step 4: Elevate Cilantro Lime Rice

• Butter
• Lime juice
• Fresh cilantro

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.

Step 5: Build Mouthwatering Bowls

Divide cilantro-lime rice into serving bowls. Layer with perfectly cooked chicken and top with vibrant street corn mixture.

Garnish with optional extras like sliced avocado, diced jalapeños, and fresh lime wedges.

Tips to Master This Flavorful Bowl

• Marinate chicken longer for deeper flavor infusion, up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for maximum taste.
• Choose fresh corn for the best street corn topping, ensuring kernels are bright and plump for maximum sweetness.
• Swap cotija cheese with feta or queso fresco if unavailable, maintaining the tangy cheese element in the dish.
• Use leftover grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken as a quick alternative to reduce cooking time and add variety.
• For a low-carb version, replace rice with cauliflower rice or mixed greens to create a lighter, nutrient-dense meal.

Cool Combos for Street Corn Chicken Bowls

• Spicy Southwest Fusion: Replace chili powder with chipotle peppers for a smokier heat. Add black beans and roasted bell peppers for extra southwestern flavor.
• Tropical Paradise Bowl: Swap out cilantro-lime rice for coconut rice. Incorporate grilled pineapple chunks into the street corn topping for a sweet and tangy profile.
• Greek Mediterranean Remix: Use oregano and lemon instead of chili spices. Substitute cotija with crumbled feta cheese. Add cucumber and tzatziki sauce for a Mediterranean spin.
• Creamy Cajun Celebration: Season chicken with Cajun spice blend. Mix corn with remoulade sauce instead of mayonnaise. Top with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for bold Louisianan flair.

What to Pair with These Bold Bowls

• Spark Flavor Harmony: Perfectly Complementing Mexican Street Corn Chicken Bowl
• – Refresh with Zesty Margarita: Bright lime and tequila notes perfectly cut through the rich, creamy street corn topping while matching the dish's vibrant Mexican-inspired profile.
• – Pair with Crisp Mexican Lager: Light, refreshing beer like Modelo or Pacifico balances the spicy chicken and complements the charred corn's smoky undertones.
• – Cool Down with Cucumber Agua Fresca: Hydrating, subtle drink softens the dish's bold spices and provides a clean, light counterpoint to the creamy cheese and mayo blend.
• – Elevate with Citrus Seltzer: Sparkling water with a hint of lime or orange adds effervescence and cleanses the palate between bites of the robust chicken and corn mixture.

Storing Your Street Corn Bowl with Ease

• Refrigerator Storage: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Separate components like chicken, rice, and corn topping to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
• Freezer Storage: Freeze individual components separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn and maintain quality.
• Microwave Reheating: Place rice and chicken in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle with a few drops of water, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. Add fresh corn topping after reheating to preserve texture.
• Skillet Reheating: Warm chicken and rice in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil. Stir gently to prevent drying out.

Vibrant Mexican Street Corn Chicken Bowl Recipe

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4.7 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Spicy Mexican street corn chicken bowl combines zesty flavors from classic elote with tender grilled chicken and fresh summer ingredients. Creamy, tangy, and packed with bold southwestern seasonings, this bowl delivers a delightful culinary journey you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Street Corn Topping and Rice Components:

• 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese
• 1 lime, juiced
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Optional Toppings:

• Diced avocado
• Sliced jalapeños
• Extra lime wedges
• Hot sauce

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Instructions

1. Infuse the chicken with a zesty blend of spices by whisking olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Thoroughly coat the diced chicken and allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to absorb the vibrant flavors.
2. Transform fresh corn kernels into a smoky street-style topping by searing them in a skillet over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes until they develop a golden char. Create a creamy elote-inspired mixture by combining the charred corn with mayonnaise, sour cream, cotija cheese, chili powder, fresh lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
3. Sizzle the marinated chicken in a hot skillet over medium-high heat, cooking each side for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes to retain its juicy texture.
4. Elevate the rice by gently tossing it with melted butter, freshly squeezed lime juice, and finely chopped cilantro. Season with additional salt to enhance the herbaceous flavors.
5. Construct the bowls by distributing the cilantro-lime rice as a base. Layer the perfectly cooked chicken on top, generously spoon the street corn mixture, and garnish with optional additions like creamy avocado slices, spicy jalapeño rings, and bright lime wedges for a burst of freshness.

Notes

• Marinate Longer for Deeper Flavor: Let chicken soak in spices for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator to intensify the Mexican-inspired seasoning profile.
• Corn Char Technique: Ensure a smoky flavor by using a cast-iron skillet or grill pan to get those perfect dark spots on corn kernels without burning.
• Customize for Dietary Needs: Swap regular rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version, or use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter protein boost.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare marinaded chicken and street corn topping a day in advance to streamline meal prep and enhance flavor development.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 60 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg