Easy Chicken Rice Bowl with Creamy Street Corn

There’s something undeniably comforting about digging into a loaded rice bowl, and this Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl hits all the right notes. Inspired by Mexican street corn (elote), this recipe combines tender grilled chicken, creamy cotija-laced corn, fluffy rice, and a tangy lime yogurt sauce—all in one colorful, nutritious bowl.

This version brings the bold, crave-worthy flavor of traditional street corn with a healthier, dietitian-inspired twist. It’s lighter but still rich in taste and texture. Instead of heavy mayo, a Greek yogurt base keeps things creamy with added protein. Fresh vegetables and lean protein make it a balanced meal you can feel good about serving any day of the week.

Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or quick lunches, these bowls offer convenience without compromise. Every bite is a mix of smoky, zesty, creamy, and crunchy goodness.

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Ingredients Overview

Each component of this bowl serves a purpose: flavor, texture, nutrition, or all three. Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients and their healthy benefits.

Chicken Breast:
Lean, high in protein, and low in fat, chicken breast is the ideal base for this dish. Grilled or pan-seared with simple spices like cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika, it provides flavor without the need for heavy sauces. Boneless, skinless thighs can be used for extra juiciness, but they’re slightly higher in fat.

Brown Rice or Cauliflower Rice:
For a whole grain boost, brown rice adds fiber and a chewy texture. Looking to lower carbs? Riced cauliflower is a great substitute and pairs wonderfully with the creamy corn topping.

Corn Kernels:
Sweet and naturally creamy, corn is the star of the show. Fresh off the cob is ideal when in season, but frozen or canned (no added sugar or salt) works well too. When charred or grilled, the smoky flavor mimics traditional elote.

Greek Yogurt:
Used in place of mayo or sour cream, nonfat plain Greek yogurt adds creaminess with protein and probiotics. It lightens up the corn topping and sauce without sacrificing taste.

Cotija Cheese or Feta:
Cotija offers a salty, crumbly texture that elevates the corn mixture. Feta is a great alternative with a similar briny profile. Use sparingly for flavor impact without excess sodium.

Lime Juice and Zest:
Adds brightness and balances the richness of the cheese and yogurt. Fresh is best—this zingy note ties all the bowl elements together.

Cilantro, Jalapeño, and Green Onion:
These add freshness and a pop of green color. Adjust the jalapeño to your spice tolerance or leave it out altogether.

Avocado (Optional):
For added healthy fats and a buttery texture, diced avocado or a few slices make a great topping.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Rice or Cauliflower Rice:
Prepare your base first. Cook brown rice according to package instructions (usually about 45 minutes). For cauliflower rice, sauté in a nonstick skillet with a touch of olive oil until tender, about 5–7 minutes.

2. Marinate and Cook the Chicken:
Slice chicken breasts into even fillets. Season with olive oil, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes. Grill or sear over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (165°F internal temperature). Rest, then slice thinly.

3. Make the Street Corn Topping:
In a bowl, combine charred or cooked corn, Greek yogurt, crumbled cotija, lime juice, a dash of chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir until creamy. Fold in chopped cilantro and green onion. Add jalapeño if desired.

4. Prepare the Yogurt Lime Sauce:
Mix a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt with lime juice, zest, a touch of honey or maple syrup, and a splash of water to thin. Optional: add garlic powder or cumin for more flavor. Stir until smooth.

5. Assemble the Bowls:
Start with rice or cauliflower rice. Add sliced chicken, a scoop of street corn mixture, avocado, and extra veggies if using (like cherry tomatoes or shredded lettuce). Drizzle with yogurt lime sauce. Sprinkle extra cheese or herbs on top if desired.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Tips for Success:

• Char the corn in a dry skillet or grill pan for the best flavor.

• Slice chicken against the grain for tenderness.

• Meal prep the components separately and assemble fresh each day.

Healthy Variations:

• Vegetarian: Swap chicken for black beans or grilled tofu.

• Low Carb: Use cauliflower rice and skip the avocado if watching calories.

• High Protein: Add extra chicken or a scoop of black beans to increase fiber and protein.

Substitutions:

• Swap Greek yogurt with dairy-free alternatives for a lactose-free version.

• Use quinoa or farro instead of rice for a fiber boost.

• Cotija can be replaced with light feta or reduced-fat shredded cheese.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

These bowls are perfect for weekday lunches, weekend meal prep, or casual dinner nights. They hold up well in the fridge and can be eaten warm or cold.

Pair with sparkling water infused with lime or cucumber for a fresh contrast. For sides, a simple cucumber salad or citrus fruit salad keeps the meal light and vibrant.

They also make a great base for a build-your-own dinner night, allowing everyone to customize their toppings to taste.

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Nutritional & Health Notes

This Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl offers a balanced mix of macronutrients—lean protein, healthy carbs, and moderate fats—while keeping sodium and added sugar in check.

Greek yogurt adds gut-friendly probiotics and extra protein. Brown rice or cauliflower rice gives you fiber without refined carbs. Corn, though naturally sweet, contributes antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin.

Using minimal cheese and light dressings keeps saturated fat low, while herbs and citrus maximize flavor without added calories. Portion control and mindful seasoning make this a truly dietitian-friendly option.

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FAQs

1. Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely. Leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even quicker. Just reheat and season lightly with lime juice and spices to revive the flavor.

2. How long does this keep in the fridge?
The components will last 3–4 days if stored separately. Store the yogurt sauce and corn mix in airtight containers and assemble just before serving to keep textures fresh.

3. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! Skip the jalapeño and use mild spices. Kids often love the creamy corn and rice combo, especially when served with avocado or shredded cheese.

4. Can I freeze it?
Freeze the cooked chicken and rice separately for up to 2 months. The corn topping and yogurt sauce are best made fresh, as dairy doesn’t always thaw well.

5. What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
Dairy-free coconut yogurt or plant-based sour cream alternatives work well. Choose plain varieties with no added sugar to keep the flavor profile savory.

6. How can I make it spicier?
Add more jalapeño, a dash of hot sauce, or sprinkle on crushed red pepper flakes. You can also mix chipotle powder into the yogurt sauce for smoky heat.

7. Is this a complete meal?
Yes. It includes protein, fiber-rich carbs, healthy fats, and vegetables. To increase volume, add extra greens or serve with a fresh side salad.

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