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

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husks removed but silk left intact
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Juice of 1 large lime (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest, finely grated
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (kosher salt preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Carefully peel back the husks without removing them entirely, then remove the silk strands. Fold the husks back over the corn to keep the kernels moist during grilling. (Prep time: 5 minutes)
  2. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with chili powder, smoked paprika, lime juice, lime zest, garlic powder, and salt. Stir until all ingredients are well combined. Fold in the chopped cilantro if using. (Prep time: 5 minutes)
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, about 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 204°C). If using charcoal, wait until coals are glowing red with a light layer of ash.
  4. Place the corn on the grill, husks and all. Turn every 3-4 minutes to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. Grill for about 15-20 minutes total until husks char slightly and corn inside steams perfectly.
  5. Once off the grill, carefully peel back the husks and discard. Use tongs or a cloth to hold the corn and generously spread the chili lime butter all over while the corn is still warm so the butter melts beautifully.
  6. Serve immediately for best taste.

Notes

If the butter is too cold, let it sit at room temperature while the corn grills to spread easily. For extra flavor, squeeze fresh lime over the corn before serving. To make vegan, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine. If no grill is available, wrap corn in foil with butter and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn, chili lime butter, summer recipe, barbecue side, spicy corn, tangy butter, easy grilled corn