Grilled Corn Chili Lime Butter

Featured in: Weekend BBQ Favorites

This dish features fresh corn grilled to a smoky char, then coated generously with a vibrant chili lime butter. The butter combines softened butter with chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic, lime zest, and fresh lime juice to create a lively, tangy topping that balances heat and citrus. Ideal for warm-weather gatherings, this side highlights easy grilling techniques and bright, bold flavors that complement a variety of meals.

Updated on Mon, 10 Nov 2025 13:36:00 GMT
Sweet grilled corn with chili lime butter, a summer staple for backyard barbecues.  Save
Sweet grilled corn with chili lime butter, a summer staple for backyard barbecues. | grilto.com

Sweet, smoky grilled corn on the cob slathered with zesty chili lime butter—perfect for summer gatherings or as a flavorful side dish.

This recipe always reminds me of summer BBQs with friends and family gathered around the grill enjoying fresh flavors.

Ingredients

  • Corn: 4 ears fresh corn husked 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Chili Lime Butter: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter softened 1 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Zest of 1 lime 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro optional
  • To Serve: Extra lime wedges Additional chopped cilantro optional

Instructions

Step 1:
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Step 2:
Brush the husked corn cobs lightly with olive oil.
Step 3:
Grill the corn turning every 2 amp 3 minutes for about 10 amp 12 minutes until charred in spots and cooked through.
Step 4:
While the corn grills prepare the chili lime butter In a small bowl mix softened butter chili powder smoked paprika garlic powder lime zest lime juice and salt until well combined Stir in chopped cilantro if using.
Step 5:
Remove the grilled corn from the grill and immediately slather each ear with the chili lime butter.
Step 6:
Serve hot garnished with extra cilantro and lime wedges.
Deliciously charred corn on the cob topped with zesty chili lime butter delight.  Save
Deliciously charred corn on the cob topped with zesty chili lime butter delight. | grilto.com

This recipe brings back warm memories of outdoor meals shared with loved ones and the joy of fresh seasonal ingredients.

Required Tools

Grill or grill pan Silicone brush Small mixing bowl Tongs

Allergen Information

Contains dairy butter Suitable for vegetarians and gluten-free diets Always check ingredient labels if serving to guests with allergies

Nutritional Information

Calories 190 Total Fat 11 g Carbohydrates 23 g Protein 3 g per serving

Fresh corn slathered in spicy butter, perfect for serving at picnics and cookouts. Save
Fresh corn slathered in spicy butter, perfect for serving at picnics and cookouts. | grilto.com

This grilled corn recipe is a perfect side that adds brightness and smokiness to any summer meal.

Recipe Help & Answers

How do I achieve the perfect char on grilled corn?

Brush the corn with olive oil and place it over medium-high heat, turning every 2-3 minutes for even char marks without burning.

Can I prepare the chili lime butter ahead of time?

Yes, mixing the butter and spices ahead allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the final taste when applied to hot corn.

What can I substitute for fresh lime juice?

Fresh lemon juice can be used as an alternative but lime offers a more authentic tang that pairs better with chili.

Is it necessary to use smoked paprika in the butter?

Smoked paprika adds depth and smoky flavor complementing the grilled corn but can be replaced with regular paprika if unavailable.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra chili powder to the butter for increased heat without overwhelming the flavors.

Grilled Corn Chili Lime Butter

Smoky grilled corn on the cob enhanced with zesty chili lime butter for vibrant flavors.

Prep Time
10 min
Time to Cook
15 min
Complete Time
25 min
From grilto Jake Turner


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Style American

Serves 4 Portions

Diet Details Meatless, No Gluten

What You Need

Corn

01 4 ears fresh corn, husked
02 1 tablespoon olive oil

Chili Lime Butter

01 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
02 1 teaspoon chili powder
03 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
04 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 Zest of 1 lime
06 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
07 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
08 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

To Serve

01 Extra lime wedges
02 Additional chopped cilantro (optional)

How-To

Step 01

Prepare Grill: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

Step 02

Oil Corn: Lightly brush husked corn cobs with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 03

Grill Corn: Place corn on grill and cook, turning every 2 to 3 minutes for 10 to 12 minutes, until evenly charred and tender.

Step 04

Make Chili Lime Butter: Combine softened butter, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, lime zest, lime juice, and kosher salt in a small bowl. Stir in chopped cilantro if desired.

Step 05

Apply Butter: Remove corn from grill and immediately spread chili lime butter evenly over each ear.

Step 06

Garnish and Serve: Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro and lime wedges.

Essentials

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Silicone brush
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Tongs

Allergy Advisory

Review every component for allergens. Reach out to a health pro if you’re concerned.
  • Contains dairy (butter).

Nutrition Details (per portion)

Facts listed here are for your info, not medical advice. Always double-check if needed.
  • Energy: 190
  • Lipids: 11 g
  • Carbohydrates: 23 g
  • Proteins: 3 g