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Flavorful Grilled Corn on the Cob Recipe with Easy Chili Lime Butter

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

A quick and easy grilled corn on the cob recipe featuring a zesty chili lime butter that adds smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors perfect for summer BBQs and casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked and cleaned
  • 1/2 cup (115g or 4 oz) unsalted butter, softened
  • Juice of 1 large lime
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • A pinch of freshly ground black pepper
  • A small handful cilantro, finely chopped (optional garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Husk the corn completely and remove all silk threads. Rinse under cold water and pat dry (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a small bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, fresh lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well blended (about 5 minutes).
  3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). If using a grill pan, heat it on the stove over medium-high heat for 5 minutes.
  4. Brush each ear of corn lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and encourage even charring.
  5. Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes until kernels have grill marks and a slight char develops.
  6. Remove corn from the grill and immediately slather each ear generously with the chili lime butter so it melts into the corn.
  7. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the corn for freshness and serve warm with extra lime wedges on the side.

Notes

If chili lime butter is too firm, soften briefly in microwave (10-15 seconds) before spreading. Turn corn frequently while grilling to avoid burning. Fresh lime juice is preferred for best flavor but bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch. For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with vegan butter or coconut oil. Oven roasting at 425°F for 20 minutes is a good alternative if no grill is available.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn on the cob, chili lime butter, summer BBQ side, easy grilled corn, smoky corn recipe, spicy corn, lime butter corn