Go Back

Mexican Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Smoky grilled corn, tender seasoned chicken, and fresh toppings combine in this restaurant-quality rice bowl
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 485

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 0.5 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lime juice only
  • 1.5 cups jasmine rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 0.25 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 lime zest and juice
  • 3 ears fresh corn or 2 cups frozen corn
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 0.5 cup cotija cheese crumbled
  • 0.5 teaspoon chili powder for corn
  • 0.5 cup Mexican crema or sour cream

Equipment

  • Grill pan or grill
  • Pot or rice cooker
  • Mixing bowl
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Combine chicken thighs, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, minced garlic, and lime juice in a bowl. Mix thoroughly and let marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature.
  2. Cook jasmine rice in chicken broth according to package directions, usually about 18 minutes. Once done, fluff with a fork and stir in chopped cilantro, lime zest, and lime juice while still warm.
  3. Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat and char the corn until blackened spots appear, about 8-10 minutes total. Cut kernels from cobs and toss with mayonnaise and half the chili powder.
  4. Grill the marinated chicken in the same pan until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 6-7 minutes per side. Let rest 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
  5. Make the lime crema by whisking together Mexican crema, lime juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
  6. Assemble bowls by layering warm rice, sliced chicken, charred corn mixture, crumbled cotija cheese, lime crema, and fresh cilantro.

Notes

Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier results. Char the corn properly for authentic street food smokiness. Store components separately for best results.