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grilled corn on the cob with chili lime butter - featured image

Flavorful Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter


  • Author: Sarah Wasserman
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A simple and delicious grilled corn on the cob recipe featuring a zesty chili lime butter that adds a smoky, tangy, and mildly spicy flavor perfect for summer BBQs.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)
  • Optional toppings: crumbled cotija cheese, extra lime wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 375–400°F (190–204°C).
  2. In a small bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, fresh lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Mix well until evenly incorporated.
  3. Husk the corn by removing outer leaves and silk. Rinse under cold water and pat dry.
  4. Apply a thin layer of the chili lime butter to each ear of corn, covering all sides.
  5. Place corn directly on the grill grates. Cook, turning every 3-4 minutes using tongs, for about 12-15 minutes or until kernels are tender and lightly blackened in spots.
  6. Remove corn from the grill and immediately brush with another generous layer of chili lime butter.
  7. If desired, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro and crumbled cotija cheese on top while the corn is still hot.
  8. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.

Notes

If you don’t have a grill, you can broil the corn in the oven, turning every few minutes until lightly charred and cooked through. For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with plant-based spread or olive oil. Apply butter twice for best flavor and moisture. Avoid microwaving leftovers to prevent rubbery kernels.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 ear of corn
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 6
  • Sodium: 230
  • Fat: 12
  • Saturated Fat: 7
  • Carbohydrates: 18
  • Fiber: 2
  • Protein: 3

Keywords: grilled corn, chili lime butter, summer BBQ, easy side dish, smoky corn, spicy corn, lime butter corn