Description
Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter is a smoky and flavorful summer side dish featuring sweet corn charred to perfection on the grill. Each ear is brushed with a zesty chili lime butter that combines fresh lime juice, chili powder, and aromatic spices for a bright, slightly spicy kick. Perfect for BBQs and outdoor gatherings, this recipe delivers juicy kernels infused with bold Mexican-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Corn
- 6 ears fresh corn, husks and silk removed
Chili Lime Butter
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
To Serve
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Chili Lime Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with fresh lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chopped cilantro. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended to create a flavorful butter mixture.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high, aiming for a temperature between 400 and 450°F to ensure the corn cooks evenly and gets those perfect char marks.
- Brush Corn with Butter: Using a basting brush, lightly coat each ear of corn with some of the prepared chili lime butter. This initial coating helps infuse the corn with flavor during grilling.
- Grill the Corn: Place the corn directly on the hot grill grates. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning the ears every 2 to 3 minutes so all sides develop a tender texture with evenly charred, smoky spots.
- Apply Final Butter and Serve: Remove the corn from the grill and immediately brush generously with the remaining chili lime butter to melt into the warm kernels. Serve while hot accompanied by lime wedges and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added zest and freshness.
Notes
- For extra heat, add cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeño to the butter mixture before grilling.
- Grilling the corn in the husks results in a slightly steamed texture with less charring if preferred.
- Cotija or Parmesan cheese can be sprinkled on top for a savory complement.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with softened vegan butter or olive oil.
- This side pairs excellently with grilled chicken, steak, burgers, tacos, or seafood dishes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, American
