If you’re craving a meal that balances hearty, fresh, and vibrant all in one, this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is your new best friend. What makes it truly shine is the magic touch of 2 tablespoons sour cream incorporated into the dressing, adding a creamy tang that elevates every bite. This simple ingredient ties together the smoky sautéed corn, tender chicken, and zesty lime for an unforgettable dinner that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

2 tablespoons sour cream Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating a balanced and flavorful dish. From the juicy chicken to the sweet corn and the zing of fresh lime, these essentials come together effortlessly to deliver a meal packed with texture, color, and taste.

Chicken Breast (about 1 pound): Boneless and skinless for quick cooking and lean protein; swap with turkey or tofu for variety.
Rice (1 cup): Aromatic jasmine or basmati rice forms the perfect fluffy base; quinoa or cauliflower rice are great low-carb alternatives.
Corn (1 cup): Fresh or frozen, corn adds a natural sweetness and satisfying crunch; canned works well in a pinch.
Avocado (1 large): Adds creamy richness to the bowl, complementing the smoky corn and tender chicken.
Cilantro (¼ cup, chopped): Brings a fresh, herbal brightness to the dish; parsley is a milder substitute if needed.
Lime (1, juiced): Provides an essential acidic splash that awakens all the flavors.
Cheese (½ cup): Cotija or feta cheese add a salty, crumbly texture to contrast the creamy elements.
Chili Powder (1 teaspoon): Offers warmth and a touch of spice; feel free to adjust based on your heat preference.
Salt and Pepper to taste: Simple pantry staples to enhance all the other flavors harmoniously.
2 tablespoons sour cream: Key to the dressing, adding a luscious tang that unites every ingredient wonderfully.
Mayo (1 tablespoon): Adds subtle creaminess to complement the sour cream’s zinginess in the dressing.

How to Make 2 tablespoons sour cream

Step 1: Prepare the Rice and Chicken

Start by cooking your rice according to the package directions—it’s important to get a fluffy texture to balance the juicy chicken. Season your chicken breast generously with the chili powder, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet with a splash of olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken 5 to 7 minutes per side until cooked through and perfectly golden on the outside.

Step 2: Sauté the Corn

Using the same skillet, don’t clean out all those incredible flavors! Toss in your corn and sauté it for 3 to 5 minutes. This will give it a slightly smoky, caramelized edge that adds a beautiful crunch and depth to the dish.

Step 3: Make the Dressing with 2 tablespoons sour cream

In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons sour cream, 1 tablespoon mayo, a squeeze of lime juice, a pinch of chili powder, and salt and pepper to taste. This creamy dressing is the heart of the dish, bringing all the fresh and bold flavors together with its tangy richness.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

Slice the rested chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked rice, sautéed corn, chopped chicken, chopped cilantro, and the juice of one fresh lime. Drizzle the 2 tablespoons sour cream dressing over the mixture and toss gently to combine all those beautiful flavors.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Divide your mixture into serving bowls, then top with creamy avocado slices and a generous sprinkle of your chosen cheese. Add an extra dollop of that 2 tablespoons sour cream dressing if you’re feeling indulgent—it’s all about that burst of creamy punch!

How to Serve 2 tablespoons sour cream

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes elevate this dish dramatically. Think chopped cilantro sprigs, a sprinkle of crumbled Cotija cheese, thinly sliced green onions, or a wedge of lime. Adding an extra spoonful of 2 tablespoons sour cream on top can create a beautiful contrast with the smoky chicken and corn, making every bite burst with flavor.

Side Dishes

This bowl is a powerhouse on its own but pairs wonderfully with light sides like a crisp green salad or roasted veggies. For an extra touch, serve with warm tortillas or crispy tortilla chips for scooping and dipping, enhanced perfectly by an extra dip of 2 tablespoons sour cream-based dressing.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not serve this rice bowl in a hollowed-out avocado or in a colorful super-vibrant bowl to make it visually stunning? Layer the ingredients in a clear jar for a grab-and-go lunch option. No matter how you present it, the star remains that creamy dressing made with 2 tablespoons sour cream, which ties everything together in a silky, satisfying way.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the 2 tablespoons sour cream dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to preserve its fresh tang and creamy texture.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh due to the creamy elements and avocado. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken and rice without the dressing and avocado for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and add fresh toppings and 2 tablespoons sour cream dressing when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the rice and chicken gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Avoid heating the avocado and the dressing along with the dish; instead, add the avocado fresh and drizzle with the 2 tablespoons sour cream dressing just before serving to keep their flavors bright and textures perfect.

FAQs

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of 2 tablespoons sour cream?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt can be a wonderful substitute with a similar tanginess and creaminess. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a lighter version of the dressing.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

For a vegan twist, swap the chicken for tofu, use dairy-free cheese, and replace the 2 tablespoons sour cream with a plant-based sour cream alternative. These easy swaps keep the dish just as delicious.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for meal prep?

Yes, the components can be prepped in advance, but keep the avocado and 2 tablespoons sour cream dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness and avoid browning.

What if I don’t have fresh lime juice?

While fresh lime juice is preferred for its brightness, bottled lime juice can work in a pinch. Just be mindful of any added preservatives in bottled options.

How spicy is the chili powder in this dish?

The chili powder adds a gentle warmth without overpowering heat. You can easily adjust the amount or substitute with paprika for a milder flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is more than just a meal, it’s a celebration of simple ingredients that come together beautifully, especially with the star ingredient—2 tablespoons sour cream—that binds it all with creamy, tangy perfection. Give it a try and watch how this simple addition transforms your dinner into something truly special.