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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 summer BBQ side featuring fresh corn grilled to perfection and slathered with a zesty, smoky chili lime butter that balances heat, sweetness, and tang.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husks removed
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened (preferably European-style)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (Ancho chili powder recommended)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter with 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, 1 teaspoon lime zest, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon honey, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper if using. Mix well until smooth and fully incorporated. Set aside or refrigerate if you want it firmer.
  2. Remove husks and silk from 4 ears of fresh corn. Rinse under cold water and pat dry with a towel.
  3. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400°F).
  4. Using a brush or spoon, spread a generous amount of the chili lime butter over each ear of corn.
  5. Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Cook for about 10-15 minutes total, turning every 3-4 minutes to get even charring on all sides. The corn is done when kernels are tender with golden to dark spots.
  6. Remove corn from grill and immediately brush with any remaining chili lime butter. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top if desired.
  7. Serve warm. Have napkins handy as this dish is deliciously messy.

Notes

For best results, use fresh corn. Soaking corn before grilling can help keep kernels juicy but dry well before grilling to get a good char. If butter melts too fast on the grill, chill it first or apply in thinner layers. For a softer, steamed corn, wrap ears in foil after buttering and grill. Butter can be made up to 2 days ahead and refrigerated. For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with plant-based margarine and honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.

Nutrition

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