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Flavorful Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter

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

A quick and easy grilled corn on the cob recipe slathered with a zesty chili lime butter that balances smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors for a crowd-pleasing summer treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)
  • Zest from 1 lime

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, fresh lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and lime zest. Mix until smooth and fully blended. Chill for 10 minutes if time allows.
  2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F / 190°C). For charcoal grills, wait until coals are glowing embers.
  3. Husk the corn and remove all silk strands. Pat dry with a kitchen towel.
  4. Lightly coat the corn with plain butter or neutral oil to prevent sticking and help with charring.
  5. Place corn directly on grill grates. Turn every 2-3 minutes using tongs to ensure even charring, grilling for 10-12 minutes until kernels are tender and slightly blackened.
  6. Remove corn from grill and transfer to a serving plate.
  7. While corn is still warm, generously spread the chili lime butter over each ear, making sure it seeps into every crevice.
  8. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and add an extra squeeze of lime if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

If the butter is too firm when spreading, warm it briefly in the microwave. Drying the corn after husking helps the butter and spices stick better. Rotate corn frequently on the grill to avoid burning. For indoor cooking, a broiler or stovetop grill basket can be used with careful attention.

Nutrition

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