Chili Lime Grilled Corn on the Cob is a vibrant, smoky side dish that perfectly complements any summer barbecue or casual gathering. Juicy ears of corn are grilled to charred perfection and slathered with a flavorful chili lime butter, then finished with fresh herbs and lime for a zesty finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for warm-weather meals. The combination of grilled corn’s natural sweetness with the tangy lime, smoky spices, and herbaceous cilantro creates a dynamic and satisfying flavor profile. It’s quick to prepare, customizable to taste, and pairs well with a wide range of grilled mains or vegetarian platters.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

fresh corn, husks removed
unsalted butter, melted
olive oil
garlic, minced
chili powder
smoked paprika
lime zest
lime juice
chopped fresh cilantro
salt and pepper
extra lime wedges, for serving

directions

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, lime zest, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
Brush the corn generously with the chili lime butter mixture on all sides.
Place the corn directly over the heat on the grill. Cook for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and lightly charred.
Remove from the grill and brush again with the remaining butter mixture.
Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve hot with additional lime wedges for squeezing.

Servings and timing

Serves 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Grill time: 12 minutes
Total time: 22 minutes

Variations

Cheesy Elote Style: After grilling, sprinkle the corn with crumbled cotija or feta cheese and a dash of hot sauce for a Mexican street corn twist.
Spicy Upgrade: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the butter mixture for more heat.
Herb Swap: Substitute cilantro with chopped parsley or basil if preferred.
Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based butter or additional olive oil in place of traditional butter.
Sweet Corn Glaze: Add a teaspoon of honey to the butter mixture for a sweet and spicy contrast.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover grilled corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the corn in foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes, or heat on the grill or stovetop until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to preserve the texture.

FAQs

Can I grill the corn with the husks on?

Yes, grilling with the husks on helps steam the corn, resulting in a juicier texture. Just soak the husks first and peel back after cooking to add the chili lime butter.

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Absolutely. You can cook the corn on a grill pan or even roast it in the oven at 425°F (220°C) until charred.

What type of corn works best?

Fresh sweet corn is ideal for grilling due to its natural sweetness and plump kernels.

Can I prepare the butter mixture ahead of time?

Yes, the butter mixture can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat slightly before brushing onto the corn.

How do I make it spicier?

Add cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the butter mix for an extra kick.

Is this recipe vegan?

Not as written, but it can easily be made vegan by using plant-based butter and ensuring your ingredients are animal-product free.

Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, thaw the frozen corn completely and pat dry before grilling to avoid steaming instead of charring.

What can I serve with this corn?

It pairs well with grilled meats, burgers, tacos, or as a side to vegetarian mains like black bean salad or veggie skewers.

How can I make this a main dish?

Cut the grilled corn off the cob and mix it into a salad with quinoa, black beans, avocado, and extra lime juice for a hearty dish.

Can I double this recipe for a party?

Yes, simply scale up the ingredients proportionally and grill in batches if needed.

Conclusion

Chili Lime Grilled Corn on the Cob brings bold flavors and vibrant color to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or craving a flavorful vegetable side, this easy-to-make dish delivers smoky, zesty satisfaction in every bite. Serve it fresh off the grill with a squeeze of lime and enjoy a seasonal favorite that’s sure to be requested again and again.