This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients to create a flavorful, balanced meal. Each one plays a key role in capturing that street corn vibe. Here’s the list, with why each matters and substitution ideas.

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (2): The protein star of the bowl.
  • Why it’s important: Juicy chicken adds heartiness and soaks up the smoky spices perfectly.
  • Substitutions: Use chicken thighs for richer flavor, shrimp for a seafood twist, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Cooked White Rice (1 cup): The hearty base.
  • Why it’s important: Fluffy rice soaks up the flavors of the corn and chicken, making the bowl filling.
  • Substitutions: Try brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Grilled Corn Kernels (1 cup, or canned, drained): The street corn-inspired component.
  • Why it’s important: Grilled corn adds smoky sweetness that’s key to the elote flavor.
  • Substitutions: Use frozen corn (thawed and sautéed) or fresh corn boiled and cut off the cob.
• Mayonnaise (¼ cup): Creates the creamy corn coating.
  • Why it’s important: It gives the corn mixture its rich, tangy texture, just like street corn.
  • Substitutions: Use Greek yogurt for a lighter option or vegan mayo for a dairy-free version.
• Sour Cream (¼ cup): Adds tang to the corn mixture.
  • Why it’s important: It balances the mayo’s richness with a creamy, tart flavor.
  • Substitutions: Use plain yogurt or a dairy-free sour cream alternative.
• Crumbled Cotija Cheese (½ cup, or feta): Adds salty, cheesy flavor.
  • Why it’s important: Cotija is a classic street corn topping, adding a salty, crumbly texture.
  • Substitutions: Feta is a great substitute, or try queso fresco or grated Parmesan.
• Lime (1, juiced): Brings zesty brightness.
  • Why it’s important: Lime juice cuts through the richness and ties all the flavors together.
  • Substitutions: Use lemon juice or a splash of vinegar in a pinch.
• Chili Powder (1 teaspoon): Adds smoky heat to the chicken.
  • Why it’s important: It gives the dish a mild kick and authentic Mexican flair.
  • Substitutions: Try chipotle powder for more heat or paprika for less spice.
• Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon): Enhances the smoky flavor.
  • Why it’s important: It adds depth and a subtle smokiness to the chicken.
  • Substitutions: Regular paprika works, or use cumin for a different earthy note.
• Chopped Fresh Cilantro (¼ cup): Adds freshness and color.
  • Why it’s important: It brings a bright, herbaceous note that’s classic in street corn.
  • Substitutions: Use parsley or green onions if you’re not a cilantro fan, or skip for a simpler flavor.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Enhances all flavors.
  • Why it’s important: A pinch of salt and pepper brings out the best in every ingredient.
  • Substitutions: Use sea salt or kosher salt, or add a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor.

Pro Tip: Grill the corn fresh for the best smoky flavor, but canned or frozen corn works great in a pinch—just sauté to add some char.