Amazing Street Corn Chicken Rice Recipe

Name: Amazing Street Corn Chicken Rice Recipe
Prep time: PT-491804H42M45S
Cook time: PT-491804H42M45S
Total time: PT-491804H42M45S
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown); 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Zest and juice of 1 lime; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or cotija cheese; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon sour cream; 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (for garnish); Lime wedges (for serving); Optional toppings: diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, and diced red onion

by Fenna Saul

August 13, 2025

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Street corn chicken rice has become my absolute go-to for a weeknight meal that’s bursting with flavor and joy. Ever since I had authentic elote from a street vendor, I’ve been chasing that taste: smoky, creamy, a little spicy, and perfectly tangy. This Mexican Street Corn Chicken Rice Recipe captures all those vibrant notes, transforming simple chicken and rice into something truly special. The aroma of the spices, the sweetness of the corn, and the zesty lime all come together in a way that just makes you happy. If you’ve ever wondered how to make street corn chicken rice that tastes like a fiesta in your mouth, you’re in the right place. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Street Corn Chicken Rice

This dish is a flavor explosion that’s incredibly easy to make:

Incredible Flavor: It perfectly captures the tangy, creamy, and smoky taste of Mexican street corn.
Quick Prep: You can whip up this Easy Elote Chicken Rice in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from corn and rice, it’s a satisfying meal.
Budget-Friendly: Uses common, inexpensive ingredients making it a great meal for any budget.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore the bright flavors and fun presentation.
Versatile: It’s a complete meal on its own, but also makes a fantastic side dish.
Easy Elote Chicken Rice: Seriously, this Easy Elote Chicken Rice recipe is foolproof.

Ingredients for Street Corn Chicken Rice

This Mexican Street Corn Chicken Rice Recipe is surprisingly simple to assemble with these key components. We’ll achieve that signature chicken rice with elote seasoning thanks to a few key players. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups cooked rice (white or brown) – fluffy rice is the perfect base for our flavors
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed – for tender, protein-packed bites
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned) – fresh corn offers the best sweetness, but frozen or canned work great!
1 tablespoon olive oil – to sauté our chicken and corn
1 teaspoon chili powder – adds a mild heat and smoky depth
1 teaspoon cumin – for that classic earthy, warm Mexican flavor
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – essential for savory goodness
Salt and pepper to taste – to enhance all the other flavors
Zest and juice of 1 lime – brings a bright, zesty finish that’s crucial for elote flavor
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or cotija cheese – for that salty, crumbly texture
1/4 cup mayonnaise – the creamy base of our elote sauce
1 tablespoon sour cream – adds a touch of tanginess to the sauce
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (for garnish) – for a fresh, herbaceous finish
Lime wedges (for serving) – extra lime is always welcome!
Optional toppings: diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, and diced red onion – for extra flavor and texture

How to Make Street Corn Chicken Rice

Let’s get this fiesta started! Making this delicious street corn flavored chicken and rice is super simple. You’ll have a vibrant meal that tastes amazing in no time.

Step 1: If your rice isn’t already cooked, get that going first according to package directions. Fluffy white or brown rice works beautifully as the base for our street corn chicken rice bowl.
Step 2: Grab a large skillet and heat up 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add your 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed. Sprinkle it with 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is nicely browned and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
Step 3: Toss in the 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned) with the chicken. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until the corn is heated through and smells wonderfully sweet. This combination really starts to build that amazing street corn flavored chicken and rice profile.
Step 4: Now, add the zest and juice of 1 lime to the skillet. Stir it all up – you’ll immediately smell that bright, zesty aroma! This is key to the authentic elote taste. Remove the skillet from the heat.
Step 5: While the chicken and corn rest, let’s make the creamy sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon sour cream, and a tiny pinch of salt. This sauce is what makes it truly creamy and irresistible, giving you that classic elote experience.
Step 6: Time to assemble your bowls! Start with a generous scoop of your cooked rice. Then, top it with the flavorful chicken and corn mixture. This layering is essential for a perfect elote chicken rice bowl.
Step 7: Drizzle that delicious creamy sauce all over the chicken and rice. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or cotija cheese and a tablespoon of chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness and color. This finishes off the street corn flavored chicken and rice beautifully.
Step 8: Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side. Squeeze some fresh lime juice over everything for an extra pop of flavor. Enjoy your homemade street corn chicken rice!

Amazing Street Corn Chicken Rice Recipe - Street Corn Chicken Rice - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Street Corn Chicken Rice

Want to elevate your street corn chicken rice game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference. Follow these tips for a truly amazing dish!

For the ultimate flavor, char your corn slightly under the broiler or on a grill pan before adding it to the skillet. This really boosts that smoky, sweet corn flavor.
Don’t skip the lime zest! It adds a much more intense citrus aroma and flavor than just the juice alone, which is crucial for authentic elote taste.
Taste and adjust seasonings before serving. The balance of spice, salt, and lime is key to a fantastic street corn chicken rice bowl.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely minced jalapeño along with the corn.

What’s the secret to perfect Street Corn Chicken Rice?

The secret to the absolute best street corn chicken rice recipe lies in building those layers of flavor. Charring the corn and not skimping on the fresh lime zest and juice are crucial steps for that authentic, vibrant elote taste. For more recipe inspiration, check out our full collection of recipes.

Can I make Street Corn Chicken Rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prep components ahead! Cook the rice, cook and season the chicken and corn mixture, and make the sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Then, just assemble and warm everything up when you’re ready to eat.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Street Corn Chicken Rice?

A common pitfall is overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry. Cook it just until done. Also, make sure not to overmix the sauce, as it can become watery; whisk gently until just combined. Finally, ensure your rice is fluffy, not mushy, for the best texture. If you’re looking for other quick weeknight meals, consider our turkey meatloaf recipe.

Best Ways to Serve Street Corn Chicken Rice

This vibrant dish is wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed in so many ways. It’s perfect on its own as a complete meal, but here are a few ideas to make it even more special. For a truly authentic experience, serve it up as an Elote Chicken Rice Bowl, layering the chicken and corn mixture over fluffy rice and topping it with the creamy sauce, cheese, and cilantro.

You can also pair this street corn chicken rice with a simple side salad for a fresh contrast, or some black beans for extra protein and fiber. If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving it with grilled plantains for a touch of sweetness. It’s a dish that truly shines when presented with a little extra flair! For another flavorful side, try our crispy roasted cauliflower.

Amazing Street Corn Chicken Rice Recipe - Street Corn Chicken Rice - additional detail

Nutrition Facts for Street Corn Chicken Rice

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information for one serving of this delicious street corn chicken rice dish. This recipe is designed to be both flavorful and relatively light, making it a great option for a satisfying dinner.

Calories: 600 kcal
Fat: 20g
Protein: 35g

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, such as the leanness of the chicken and the type of rice. For those interested in weight management, you might find our Zepbound weight loss recipes helpful.

How to Store and Reheat Street Corn Chicken Rice

Keeping your delicious street corn chicken rice fresh is easy, allowing you to enjoy this fantastic meal later. For the best quality, make sure to let the dish cool down completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make things soggy. Once cooled, transfer the street corn chicken rice into airtight containers. You can store it in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. It’s a perfect option for meal prep, giving you a healthy and flavorful lunch or dinner on demand!

If you want to store it for longer, the chicken and corn mixture can be frozen separately for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm the components gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If it seems a bit dry after reheating, a splash of water or a bit more lime juice can revive it. This makes it easy to enjoy a quick street corn chicken rice even days after you’ve made it. For another great make-ahead option, consider our boat dip rotel ranch dip.

Frequently Asked Questions About Street Corn Chicken Rice

What is street corn chicken rice?

Street corn chicken rice is a vibrant dish inspired by Mexican street corn, or *elote*. It typically features seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, and sweet corn, all brought together with a creamy, tangy sauce and often topped with cheese and cilantro. It’s a flavorful and satisfying meal that captures the essence of that beloved street food flavor.

Can I make a vegetarian version of street corn chicken rice?

Absolutely! To make a vegetarian street corn chicken rice, simply omit the chicken. Instead, you can add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or some seasoned grilled vegetables, like bell peppers and zucchini, to the corn mixture. This still gives you all the delicious elote flavors in a hearty meat-free meal.

What kind of chicken is best for street corn chicken rice?

Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs work wonderfully for this street corn chicken rice bowl. They cook quickly and absorb the spices beautifully. If you’re short on time, using leftover rotisserie chicken that you’ve shredded or cubed is also a fantastic shortcut that makes for an even quicker meal.

How do I get that authentic elote flavor in my street corn chicken rice?

To achieve that authentic *elote* taste in your street corn chicken rice, focus on the key components: lime juice and zest for brightness, mayonnaise and a touch of sour cream for creaminess, and crumbled cotija or feta cheese for saltiness. Don’t forget the chili powder and cumin for that signature smoky, warm spice blend! For a different flavor profile, you might enjoy our Korean BBQ meatballs.

Variations of Street Corn Chicken Rice You Can Try

This street corn chicken rice recipe is so versatile, you can easily adapt it to your preferences! Whether you’re looking for a different cooking method, a dietary modification, or just a new flavor twist, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this dish. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Spicy Street Corn Chicken Rice: For those who love a little heat, add chopped fresh jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken and corn mixture. You can also mix a teaspoon of sriracha or chipotle adobo sauce into the creamy sauce for an extra kick.
Grilled Chicken Variation: Instead of cubing and skillet-cooking the chicken, try grilling chicken breasts or thighs seasoned with the same spices. Chop the grilled chicken and add it to the corn mixture for a lovely smoky flavor.
Vegetarian Elote Chicken Rice Bowl: Omit the chicken and add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or a cup of seasoned roasted sweet potatoes to the corn mixture. This makes for a hearty and delicious meat-free meal.
Creamy Street Corn Chicken Rice Casserole: Combine the cooked rice, chicken and corn mixture, and sauce in a baking dish. Top with cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through, for a comforting casserole version.