Name: Flavorful Mexican Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp chili powder; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime; 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese; 1 tbsp mayonnaise; 1 tsp chili powder (for corn dusting); Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish; 1/2 cup sour cream or Mexican crema; 1 tbsp fresh lime juice; 1 small garlic clove, minced; Salt to taste

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Flavorful Mexican Street Corn has become a household favorite, especially in the form of a chicken rice bowl. This vibrant dish combines spiced chicken, charred corn, cilantro-lime rice, and a creamy lime crema drizzle. It’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Let’s dive into this satisfying recipe that transports you straight to the streets of Mexico!

Why You’ll Love This Flavorful Mexican Street Corn

This recipe offers a multitude of reasons to love it! First, it’s packed with flavor, thanks to the spices and fresh ingredients. You’ll enjoy the sweet charred corn, which makes it reminiscent of traditional Mexican Street Corn or Elote. It’s also gluten-free and can be prepared in under 40 minutes, making it a quick dinner solution. Plus, it’s customizable—try adding a Spicy Corn Salad on top or some grilled vegetables for added crunch. The creamy lime crema adds a luscious finish that everyone will adore. Lastly, this dish not only satisfies your hunger but also impresses your guests, making it an ideal choice for gatherings!

Ingredients for Flavorful Mexican Street Corn

Gather these items:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese
1 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tsp chili powder (for corn dusting)
Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
1/2 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
1 tbsp fresh lime juice
1 small garlic clove, minced
Salt to taste

How to Make Flavorful Mexican Street Corn Step-by-Step

Step 1: Rinse 1 cup of long-grain white rice under cold water until water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine rice with 2 cups chicken broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, then stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice. Cover and keep warm.
Step 2: Pat dry chicken thighs and season with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until browned and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Remove and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add corn kernels. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until kernels are charred and smoky, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 4: In a bowl, combine charred corn with cotija cheese, mayonnaise, and chili powder. Stir to coat evenly.
Step 5: Whisk sour cream with lime juice, minced garlic, and salt in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 6: Assemble the bowl by layering cilantro-lime rice, sliced chicken, and the Mexican street corn mix. Drizzle with lime crema and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Step 7: Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Flavorful Mexican Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Delight - Flavorful Mexican Street Corn - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Flavorful Mexican Street Corn

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
For an extra kick, add jalapeños or a sprinkle of hot sauce.
If using frozen corn, ensure it’s thawed and drained for the best texture.

Best Ways to Serve Flavorful Mexican Street Corn

Here are some serving ideas:

Pair it with Roasted Corn on the Cob for a complete meal.
Serve alongside a fresh Spicy Corn Salad to balance the flavors.
Top with avocado slices for a creamy addition.

How to Store and Reheat Flavorful Mexican Street Corn

For storage, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. This dish is fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it for multiple meals throughout the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Flavorful Mexican Street Corn

What’s the secret to perfect Flavorful Mexican Street Corn?

The secret lies in the fresh ingredients and the smoky flavor of the charred corn. Using high-quality spices will elevate the dish, making it taste authentic and delicious.

Can I make Flavorful Mexican Street Corn ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cilantro-lime rice and chicken in advance and store them separately. Just assemble the bowl before serving for the best texture and flavor.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Flavorful Mexican Street Corn?

Ensure the chicken is adequately cooked by checking the internal temperature. Also, avoid overcooking the corn; a few minutes of charring is all you need for that perfect smoky flavor.

Variations of Flavorful Mexican Street Corn You Can Try

Explore these exciting variations:

Add black beans for added protein and fiber.
Try a Mexican Grilled Corn Recipe by grilling the corn on the cob instead of pan-searing it.
Experiment with different cheeses like feta or Parmesan for a twist on flavor.