There’s something undeniably irresistible about grilled corn on the cob sizzling over an open flame, its kernels kissed with smoky char and golden sweetness. But adding a vibrant twist like chili lime butter takes this classic summer side to a whole new level—balancing zesty heat, citrus brightness, and rich creaminess in every bite. After a long day craving flavors that feel both fresh and indulgent, I found myself whipping up this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that instantly became a favorite at backyard barbecues and weeknight dinners alike. Whether you’re a seasoned chef looking to impress or just tired of boring fast food, this grilled corn with chili lime butter brings a burst of flavor and a touch of homemade magic that’s surprisingly simple to master.
Why choose Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter?
Bold Flavor Explosion: The zesty chili and bright lime blend perfectly with creamy butter for a mouthwatering taste. Effortless Prep: Simple ingredients and quick grilling mean you’ll have a delicious side in minutes. Versatile Appeal: Ideal for backyard barbecues, casual dinners, or impressing guests. Fresh & Homemade: A delightful upgrade from fast food, bringing vibrant, wholesome flavors to your table. Crowd Favorite: This recipe consistently wows both food lovers and seasoned chefs alike!
Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter Ingredients
For the Corn
- Fresh corn on the cob – Choose ears with bright green husks and plump kernels for the juiciest results.
- Olive oil – Lightly brush to help achieve that irresistible smoky char.
- Salt – Enhances natural sweetness and balances the chili lime butter flavors.
For the Chili Lime Butter
- Unsalted butter – Softened to blend easily and coat each kernel beautifully.
- Chili powder – Adds a gentle heat kick, perfectly complementing the smoky grilled corn.
- Fresh lime juice – Brings bright acidity to lift the buttery richness with zesty freshness.
- Lime zest – Intensifies lime flavor for a vibrant taste explosion.
- Salt – Balances the bold chili and tangy lime, rounding out the flavor profile.
Optional Garnishes
- Cilantro leaves – Fresh herbs add a lively, fragrant touch.
- Cotija cheese – Crumbled for a creamy, salty finish that pairs wonderfully with chili lime butter.
This Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter is the perfect recipe to transform humble summer corn into a zesty, buttery masterpiece loved by all.
How to Make Grilled Corn with Chili Lime Butter
- Preheat grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high (around 375°F–400°F), ensuring the grates are clean and oiled lightly to prevent sticking and achieve perfect charred kernels.
- Make the chili lime butter. Mash softened butter in a bowl with chili powder, lime zest, fresh lime juice, and salt until creamy and bursting with zesty aroma.
- Prep the corn. Husk each ear of corn, removing all silk strands. Brush each ear with olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt to enhance the natural sweetness.
- Grill corn. Place corn directly on the preheated grill grates and cook for 10–12 minutes, rotating every 2 minutes until kernels develop golden brown char marks all around.
- Brush with butter. Remove ears from the grill and immediately brush them generously with the chili lime butter, allowing the warm kernels to absorb the vibrant buttery flavor.
- Serve and garnish. Transfer grilled corn to a serving platter, garnish with chopped cilantro and crumbled cotija cheese if you like, and enjoy a burst of summer magic!
Optional: drizzle extra lime juice and sprinkle cotija cheese before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter
Feel free to adjust and play with flavors to make this dish your own!
- Spicy Twist: Add minced jalapeños to the chili lime butter for an extra kick. The heat pairs perfectly with the sweet corn!
- Herb-Infused: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the butter for a fragrant touch. This adds a fresh dimension that elevates the dish.
- Cheesy Goodness: Swap regular butter for garlic herb butter to create a savory flavor explosion. The richness blends beautifully with the charred sweetness of the corn.
- BBQ Glaze: Brush with barbecue sauce instead of chili lime butter for a smoky, tangy alternative that’s perfect for summer cookouts.
- Vegan Delight: Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter. Combine with lime juice and chili powder for a plant-based twist that’s just as satisfying.
- Citrus Infusion: Try adding orange juice and zest instead of lime for a sweeter, fruitier flavor. This refreshing change will surprise your palate!
- Sweet & Spicy: Drizzle a little honey over the grilled corn before serving for a delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle with crushed peanuts or almonds before serving for an added texture and nutty flavor boost that enhances the dish.
Each variation invites you to discover new layers of flavor while keeping the heart of this fantastic grilled corn recipe intact!
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter
Fridge: Store leftover grilled corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it well to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Wrap individual ears of grilled corn tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. This preserves flavor while preventing freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, place frozen corn directly on a grill or in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Brush with chili lime butter again for an extra flavor boost!
Room Temperature: Enjoy grilled corn at room temperature for up to 2 hours during outdoor gatherings. This ensures a delightful, fresh taste without risking food safety.
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chili lime butter up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, husk the corn 24 hours ahead, wrapping the ears in a damp paper towel to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to grill, simply brush the corn with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, then grill for 10–12 minutes until charred. Brush generously with the pre-made chili lime butter right after grilling for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort on those busy weeknights.
Expert Tips for Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter
- Choose fresh corn: Select ears with bright green husks and tightly packed kernels to ensure juicy and tender results every time.
- Don’t skip oiling: Lightly brushing the corn with olive oil prevents sticking and helps achieve that signature smoky char on the grill.
- Rotate often: Turn the corn every 2 minutes during grilling to cook evenly and avoid burning any side.
- Use softened butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature before mixing to blend chili, lime, and salt smoothly for vibrant flavor.
- Brush while hot: Apply chili lime butter immediately after grilling to let it melt into the warm kernels, enhancing every bite.
- Avoid too much salt upfront: Salt the corn lightly before grilling and adjust seasoning after buttering to keep flavors balanced and bright.
What to Serve with Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter?
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a casual family dinner, complementing this vibrant dish can elevate the meal experience.
- Juicy Grilled Chicken: The smoky, savory notes from grilled chicken pair wonderfully with the zesty corn, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
- Tangy Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw brings a crunchy texture and a cool tang that contrasts beautifully with the chili lime butter’s warmth.
- Fresh Avocado Salad: Creamy avocados tossed with bright citrus vinaigrette really enhance the freshness while echoing the lime flavor of the corn.
- Classic Potato Salad: A comforting potato salad, loaded with tender potatoes and a zesty dressing, makes for a satisfying and indulgent pairing.
- Spicy Salsa: Elevating your corn experience, a fresh tomato salsa brings a hit of spice and a burst of color, creating a fiesta on your plate.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp, cold Sauvignon Blanc perfectly complements the sweet and spicy notes, making it a refreshing sip alongside your grilled corn.
- Coconut Sorbet: End your meal on a light note with a refreshing coconut sorbet, mimicking tropical vibes while cooling down the palate after the savory flavors.
Juicy Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter Magic Recipe FAQs
How do I pick the best corn for grilling?
Choose ears with bright green husks that are tightly wrapped and kernels plump and creamy with no dark spots. Freshness is key for juicy, sweet corn that grills beautifully.
What’s the best way to store leftover grilled corn?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. Cover well to keep the corn moist and prevent it from absorbing other odors.
Can I freeze grilled corn with chili lime butter?
Absolutely! Wrap each ear tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. This keeps it fresh for up to 3 months. When ready, reheat on the grill or in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, then brush with fresh chili lime butter for renewed flavor.
What if my corn starts to dry out or burn on the grill?
Try lowering the grill heat to medium and turning the corn more frequently, about every 2 minutes, to avoid burning. Brushing the corn with olive oil before grilling helps lock in moisture and develop perfect char without dryness.
Is this chili lime butter safe for pets or those with dietary restrictions?
This butter blend includes chili powder and citrus, which are not recommended for pets. For allergies or sensitivities, omit chili powder and adjust seasoning with milder herbs or spices to keep it delicious but gentle.
How do I make the chili lime butter extra flavorful?
Use freshly squeezed lime juice and finely grated zest, and let your softened butter sit with chili powder and salt for 10 minutes before serving. This allows all the vibrant flavors to meld beautifully. I often make it a day ahead to deepen the taste!
Juicy Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your grill to medium-high (around 375°F–400°F), ensuring the grates are clean and oiled lightly to prevent sticking.
- Mash softened butter in a bowl with chili powder, lime zest, fresh lime juice, and salt until creamy.
- Husk each ear of corn, removing all silk strands. Brush each ear with olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt.
- Place corn directly on the preheated grill grates and cook for 10–12 minutes, rotating every 2 minutes until kernels develop golden brown char marks.
- Remove ears from the grill and immediately brush them generously with the chili lime butter.
- Transfer grilled corn to a serving platter, garnish with chopped cilantro and crumbled cotija cheese if desired, and enjoy!
