Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter

Grilled corn on the cob is a staple of summer cookouts, but adding chili lime butter takes it to the next level.

The smoky char from the grill pairs perfectly with the rich, zesty, and slightly spicy butter, creating a side dish that is bold, flavorful, and easy to make.

Whether you’re grilling for a family BBQ, a picnic, or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe will bring out the best in fresh summer corn.

How to Grill Corn on the Cob for Maximum Flavor

Grilling corn properly enhances its natural sweetness while adding a delicious smoky flavor. There are several methods to choose from, each with its own benefits.

Grilling with Husks On vs. Off

• Husks on: Protects the kernels from direct heat, keeping them moist. The husks also add a subtle earthy flavor.
• Husks off: Allows direct contact with the flames, creating charred, caramelized kernels with deeper smokiness.

Direct vs. Indirect Heat

• Direct heat: Results in a faster cook time with a crisp, slightly charred exterior. Ideal for those who love grilled marks.
• Indirect heat: Slower cooking process that keeps the corn tender while still infusing smoky flavor.

Pre-Soaking Husks: Does It Make a Difference?

Soaking corn in water for 1530 minutes before grilling helps prevent the husks from burning too quickly, which is useful when grilling over direct heat. However, it is not required and can be skipped for a more roasted effect.

How to Achieve the Perfect Char Without Burning

• Rotate the corn frequently to avoid burning one side.
• Brush with oil before grilling to enhance caramelization.
• Use medium heat rather than high heat to prevent scorching.

Chili Lime Butter: The Perfect Flavor Boost

A simple butter blend can transform plain grilled corn into a gourmet side dish. Chili lime butter strikes the perfect balance between heat, acidity, and richness.

Ingredients for Chili Lime Butter

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Zest and juice of 1 lime
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

How to Make Chili Lime Butter

1. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
2. Add lime zest and juice, stirring until fully combined.
3. Optionally, mix in chopped cilantro for extra freshness.
4. Refrigerate the butter for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Alternative Butter Variations

• Garlic Herb Butter: Swap chili powder for minced garlic and fresh parsley.
• Honey Butter: Add 1 tablespoon of honey for a sweet contrast.
• Spicy Sriracha Butter: Mix in a teaspoon of sriracha for extra heat.

Dairy-Free Alternative

Use plant-based butter or olive oil instead of dairy butter for a vegan-friendly option.

Step-by-Step: Grilled Corn with Chili Lime Butter

Follow these simple steps for perfectly grilled corn with chili lime butter.

Prepping the Corn

• If grilling with husks on, peel them back without removing them and remove the silk. Soak in water for 15 minutes if desired.
• If grilling with husks off, remove them completely and brush the corn with oil to prevent drying out.

Grilling the Corn

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (375400°F).
2. Place the corn directly on the grill grates.
3. Cook for 1015 minutes, rotating every 23 minutes for even charring.
4. If using husks, move the corn to indirect heat after 5 minutes to prevent burning.

Applying the Chili Lime Butter

• Once the corn is grilled, remove it from the heat and brush generously with chili lime butter while it is still warm.
• Let the corn rest for 23 minutes to allow the butter to melt and soak in.

Tips for Keeping Corn Juicy

• Do not overcook—grill until just tender.
• Keep the husks partially attached for extra moisture retention.
• Apply butter immediately after grilling to lock in flavor.

Best Toppings & Serving Ideas

Enhance your grilled corn by adding extra toppings for more flavor and texture.

Toppings to Try

• Cheese: Sprinkle with crumbled cotija, parmesan, or feta for a creamy finish.
• Extra Spice: Add sliced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce for heat.
• Smoky Sweetness: Drizzle with honey or sprinkle smoked salt for a sweet-savory twist.

What to Serve with Grilled Corn

• Grilled Meats: Pairs perfectly with steak, chicken, or ribs.
• Tacos: Serve alongside carne asada or shrimp tacos.
• Summer Salads: Complements fresh greens, avocado, and citrus dressings.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Even experienced grillers can make mistakes when cooking corn. Here’s how to prevent common pitfalls.

1. Over-Charring or Burning

• Rotate the corn regularly and avoid placing it over direct high heat for too long.

2. Not Seasoning Properly

• Apply butter immediately after grilling while the corn is hot so the flavors absorb fully.

3. Skipping the Resting Time

• Letting the corn sit for a few minutes after applying butter enhances the overall flavor.

4. Overcooking and Drying Out the Corn

• Keep an eye on the grill and remove the corn as soon as it becomes tender.