Print

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 dish featuring grilled corn on the cob slathered with a creamy, spicy chili-lime butter that delivers smoky, tangy, and buttery flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husks removed
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup (optional)

Instructions

  1. Remove husks and silk from the corn ears. Rinse the cobs under cold water and pat dry (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, fresh lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and honey (if using). Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy (3-4 minutes).
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (~375–450°F / 190–230°C) and allow it to heat fully (about 10 minutes).
  4. Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Cook for 10-15 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes with tongs to ensure even charring. Look for kernels to develop a light golden-brown color with some darker grill marks.
  5. Remove the corn from the grill and immediately brush generously with the chili-lime butter while the corn is hot.
  6. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the corn for garnish and serve warm.

Notes

If you don’t have a grill, use a grill pan on the stove or roast corn in the oven at 425°F for about 20 minutes, turning halfway. Brush butter immediately after grilling for best flavor. Keep a spray bottle of water nearby to control flare-ups. For a vegan version, substitute dairy-free butter and agave syrup.

Nutrition

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