Chili’s Roasted Corn Recipe

Chili’s roasted street corn is a mouthwatering side dish that brings the flavors of Mexican street food right to your table.

This recipe recreates the popular restaurant appetizer with a perfect blend of sweet corn, tangy lime, and savory spices.

You’ll find this dish surprisingly easy to make at home, requiring just a few simple ingredients and about 30 minutes of your time.

For the best results, choose fresh corn on the cob when it’s in season – the natural sweetness really shines through!

A key trick is to roast the corn at a high temperature (425°F) to achieve that delicious charred exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

How to Make Chili’s Roasted Street Corn Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 ears Corn

• 2 tbsp Olive Oil

• 1/4 cup Mayonnaise

• 1/4 cup Sour Cream

• 1 tbsp Lime Juice

• 1 tsp Chili Powder

• 1/4 cup Cotija Cheese (crumbled)

• Salt (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Step 2:

Remove the husks and silk from the corn cobs.

Step 3:

Place the corn in a cast-iron skillet or on a baking sheet.

Step 4:

Drizzle the corn with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.

Step 5:

Roast the corn in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred and tender.

Step 6:

While the corn roasts, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and chili powder in a small bowl.

Step 7:

Remove the corn from the oven and let it cool slightly.

Step 8:

Brush the roasted corn with the prepared sauce and sprinkle with crumbled Cotija cheese.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choosing the Right Corn

Select fresh corn with bright green husks and golden silk for the best flavor and texture in your roasted street corn.

Grilling Alternative

If you prefer, you can grill the corn instead of roasting it in the oven for an extra smoky flavor.

Spice It Up

Adjust the amount of chili powder to your liking, or try adding a pinch of cayenne for extra heat in your roasted street corn.

Make-Ahead Option

You can roast the corn ahead of time and reheat it before adding the toppings for a quick and easy side dish.

What to Serve with Chili’s Roasted Street Corn

Mexican Rice

A classic Mexican rice dish pairs wonderfully with the roasted street corn, complementing its flavors perfectly.

The combination of fluffy rice and vibrant spices creates a satisfying accompaniment to the charred sweetness of the corn.

Grilled Chicken Fajitas

Sizzling chicken fajitas make an excellent main course to go alongside the roasted street corn.

The smoky, seasoned chicken and colorful bell peppers provide a delicious contrast to the creamy, spicy corn.

Refreshing Cucumber Salad

For a lighter option, try serving a crisp cucumber salad with your roasted street corn.

The cool, tangy flavors of the salad balance out the richness of the corn, creating a refreshing combination.

Grilled Pineapple Slices

Surprise your taste buds by pairing the roasted street corn with sweet and juicy grilled pineapple slices.

The caramelized pineapple adds a tropical twist to your meal, complementing the savory flavors of the corn.

Spicy Black Bean Soup

A hearty black bean soup makes for an unexpected but delicious pairing with the roasted street corn.

The creamy texture and bold spices of the soup create a satisfying contrast to the crisp, flavorful corn.

Variations and Substitutions

Want to mix things up? Try grilling your corn instead of roasting it for a smoky flavor!

You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to make a lighter version of the sauce.

Spice Level

Adjust the heat by adding more or less chili powder to suit your taste preferences.

For a milder version, you can use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.

Cheese Options

Swap the cotija cheese for feta or parmesan if you can’t find cotija at your local store.

You could also try using a vegan cheese alternative to make this dish dairy-free.

Herb Variations

Experiment with different herbs like fresh basil or oregano instead of cilantro for a unique twist.

You might enjoy adding some finely chopped green onions for extra flavor and color.

How to Store Leftover Chili’s Roasted Corn

Refrigeration

Allow the roasted corn to cool completely before storing.

Place the corn in an airtight container or wrap tightly in aluminum foil.

Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the corn kernels.

Cut the kernels off the cob and spread them on a baking sheet.

Freeze for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating

You can reheat refrigerated corn in the microwave or oven.

For frozen corn, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Use within 3-4 months for best quality when frozen.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Corn

You don’t want to leave your corn on the grill or in the oven for too long!

Overcooked corn can become tough and lose its natural sweetness.

I’ve found that 10-15 minutes on the grill or 15-20 minutes in the oven is usually perfect.

Skimping on Seasoning

Don’t be shy with your spices and seasonings!

The magic of Chili’s roasted corn lies in its bold, zesty flavors.

I always make sure to generously coat my corn with the spice mixture for maximum deliciousness.

Forgetting to Let It Cool

It’s tempting to dig in right away, but patience pays off here!

Let your roasted corn cool for a few minutes before adding the creamy sauce.

This allows the flavors to settle and prevents the sauce from melting off immediately.