Chilis Roasted Street Corn isn’t just a side dish-it’s the reason half of us show up to dinner. That perfectly charred corn, slathered in creamy, tangy sauce and finished with bold chili-lime seasoning? Pure flavor magic. If you’ve ever had it at the restaurant, you already know. And if you haven’t-you’re about to make it at home in just 20 minutes.
We’re using real, budget-friendly ingredients to recreate that same irresistible bite. No grill required. This homemade version of Chilis Roasted Street Corn might just steal the spotlight from your main course. If you love creamy, smoky, spicy, and totally satisfying, keep reading-because this one’s for you.
Easy Chilis Roasted Street Corn You Can Make at Home
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Add the corn to a medium cast iron skillet. Drizzle with the olive oil and season with salt.
- Roast for 15–20 minutes, until charred on the outside and tender on the inside.
- In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, and chili powder.
- Remove corn from the oven and let cool slightly. Brush all over with the mayonnaise mixture, then sprinkle with the Cotija, cilantro, and more chili powder.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
My Love for Chilis Roasted Street Corn
The Day I Fell for That First Bite
I still remember the first time I ordered Chili’s roasted street corn. I wasn’t even planning to. I just wanted something quick next to my ribs, but when that golden ear came out-charred, creamy, loaded with spice-I was hooked. I took one bite, and bam-flavor explosion. It was tangy, salty, smoky, and sweet all at once. It felt more like a lively summer street fair than a typical chain restaurant.
What Makes It So Special?
Chili’s gets their corn just right. Roasted to a slight char, coated in a zesty crema-mayo mix, sprinkled with cotija or Parmesan, and dusted with chili-lime seasoning. It’s like classic elote, but with a restaurant twist. The creamy layer locks in moisture while the chili kick keeps your taste buds wide awake.
I always say: the best dishes connect us. This one’s got cookout memories, weeknight ease, and restaurant comfort, all rolled into a single ear. And now, you can make it at home-no grill required. Oh, and while you’re planning dinner.
How to Make Chilis Roasted Street Corn at Home
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
The magic of Chilis Roasted Street Corn starts with roasted or grilled corn on the cob. You can use fresh ears or even frozen cobs if that’s what you’ve got. Just make sure you get a good char-that’s where the smoky flavor kicks in. From there, it’s all about the topping.
For the Corn:
- 3 to 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked and cleaned
- Olive oil or melted butter, for brushing (optional)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
Toppings:
- 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Extra lime wedges, for serving
What’s That Red Powder on Street Corn?
That red powder people love on Chilis Roasted Street Corn is typically Tajín, a chili-lime seasoning with just the right kick. If you don’t have it, a simple mix of chili powder and lime zest works too.
Cooking Method Tips
Top and Serve Sprinkle crumbled cotija and chopped cilantro over the top. Serve with lime wedges for extra zest.
Prep the Corn Remove husks and silk from the corn. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Roast the Corn Lightly brush the corn with olive oil or melted butter. Grill over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until charred and tender (10–15 minutes). For oven roasting, bake at 425°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway. Air fryer users can cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes.
Mix the Sauce In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Coat the Corn While the corn is still warm, generously slather each ear with the creamy sauce using a brush or spoon.
Nutrition, Substitutions & Make-Ahead Tips
How Many Calories Are in Chilis Roasted Street Corn?
If you’re wondering whether this dish fits your meal plan, you’re not alone. A single serving of Chilis Roasted Street Corn usually clocks in at around 210 to 230 calories. That’s assuming it’s made with regular mayo, Parmesan cheese, and a light slathering of sauce. Want to lighten it up? Try using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and opt for reduced-fat mayo. You’ll keep the flavor, lose a little fat.
Easy Substitutions to Make It Your Own
What I really enjoy about this recipe is its incredible versatility. If you can’t find cotija or Parmesan, shredded feta or even crumbled queso fresco will do the trick. Out of Tajín? A pinch of paprika mixed with lime zest makes a solid stand-in. And for heat lovers, toss in a bit of cayenne or hot sauce to dial it up.
Can You Make It Ahead?
Yes! You can roast the corn up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Mix your crema sauce separately and refrigerate. Just warm the corn before serving, slather on the sauce, and top it fresh with cheese and seasoning. You’ll get all the same flavor without last-minute stress.
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Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Ideas
- Serve hot off the grill as a standout BBQ side pair it with our Instant Pot White Chicken Chili for a hearty meal
- Slice kernels off the cob to mix into a Mexican Street Corn Soup or corn salad
- Enjoy with guacamole and margaritas for a party spread
Storage Tips
- Wrap leftovers in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge
- Best eaten within 2 to 3 days
- Reheat in oven at 350°F or microwave briefly. Add more sauce if needed
- Avoid freezing as the sauce may separate
Helpful Notes
- Fresh vs. Frozen Corn: Fresh gives the best flavor, but frozen works in a pinch.
- Make It Spicy: Add hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne for more heat.
- Cheese Swaps: Feta or parmesan can replace cotija.
- Mess-Free Tip: Use corn holders from our Mexican Fish Recipe for easier eating
- Serving Flexibility: Cut the corn in snack-sized pieces similarly to how we portion in the Jiffy Mexican Cornbread article for grab-and-go servings
Conclusion
Whether you’ve had it at the restaurant or you’re trying it for the first time, Chilis Roasted Street Corn brings big flavor in every bite. It’s creamy, spicy, smoky, and satisfying-and now you can make it right in your own kitchen in just 20 minutes.
This recipe is simple enough for weeknights but tasty enough to steal the show at your next cookout or taco night. From the bold chili-lime topping to the golden roasted kernels, every bite is a crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for a side dish that’s easy, affordable, and guaranteed to impress, this is it.
Chilis Roasted Street Corn FAQ (Answered by a Real Home Cook)
What Do Chilis Put on Their Street Corn?
Chilis roasted street corn is topped with a creamy mix of mayonnaise and sour cream, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, a dusting of chili-lime seasoning (like Tajín), and fresh chopped cilantro. The corn is roasted until lightly charred, then slathered in that bold, tangy sauce and served hot with lime wedges.
Is Chilis Roasted Street Corn Good?
Absolutely. It’s one of those dishes that surprises you with how flavorful it is for something so simple. The contrast of the creamy topping and the smoky char on the corn makes it stand out. If you enjoy comfort food with big flavor, this is a side you’ll want to make again and again.
What Is the Red Powder They Put on Street Corn?
That fiery red dust is typically Tajín, a chili-lime seasoning blend made from chili peppers, lime, and sea salt. It adds a punch of zesty heat that balances the creamy layer underneath. You can buy it at most grocery stores, or mix your own with chili powder, lime zest, and salt.
How Many Calories Are in Chilis Roasted Street Corn?
On average, one serving of Chili’s Roasted Street Corn has around 210 to 230 calories. This depends on how much sauce and cheese you use, of course-but it’s a flavorful side that won’t wreck your meal balance.
Want to go beyond the corn? Try it next to our chicken spaghetti with Rotel for a full plate that brings the heat and the comfort.
How spicy is the sauce?
It has a mild kick from chili powder and smoked paprika. Adjust spice by adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce if desired.
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
resh corn delivers the best texture and flavor, but you can use frozen corn if needed. Just thaw it and pat dry before roasting or grilling.
