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30-Minute Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe

4.5 from 110 reviews

This vibrant 30-Minute Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl combines juicy, spice-rubbed chicken with charred corn and a tangy cilantro-lime sauce, all served over fluffy jasmine or brown rice for a quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any weeknight.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken and Rice Bowl

  • 2 large chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total), cut into bite-size cubes
  • 2 cups cooked rice (white, jasmine, or brown)
  • 1.5 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 0.25 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro

For the Cilantro-Lime Sauce

  • 0.5 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 0.5 lime juice and zest
  • 1 tbsp finely chopped cilantro
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken pieces completely dry with paper towels, then toss with smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil until evenly coated.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Add chicken in a single layer without overlapping and cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes per side (6-8 minutes total) until golden brown and cooked through to 165°F internal temperature. The chicken is done when juices run clear with no pink remaining in the center. Set aside on a plate.
  3. Char the Corn: Wipe the skillet lightly with a paper towel to remove any stuck bits while keeping the flavorful oil, then add corn kernels. Cook over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden-brown charred edges appear.
  4. Make the Cilantro-Lime Sauce: While corn cooks, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice and zest, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. Assemble the Bowls: Spoon warm rice into serving bowls (about 1 cup per bowl). Top with charred corn, sliced chicken, and red onion slices. Drizzle cilantro-lime sauce over everything, then finish with fresh chopped cilantro and lime juice. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For best results, use fresh corn when in season for maximum sweetness and char.
  • Brown rice can be used instead of jasmine rice for a nuttier flavor and additional fiber.
  • Adjust spice levels by modifying chili powder quantity according to your taste preference.
  • The cilantro-lime sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
  • Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Keywords: chicken rice bowl, street corn, cilantro lime sauce, quick dinner, healthy chicken recipe, easy weeknight meal