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Take your corn on the cob from ordinary to extraordinary with this Easy Smoky Chipotle Corn on the Cob recipe. The combination of smoky chipotle, creamy mayo, and tangy lime creates a flavor explosion that will make this your new go-to summer side dish. Perfect for backyard barbecues, weeknight dinners, or anytime you want to spice up your meal, this Mexican street corn-inspired recipe comes together in minutes but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

I discovered this addictive flavor combination during a summer food festival, where the aroma of grilled corn with chipotle drew me in from across the park. After recreating it at home with a few tweaks, it became an instant family favorite. Now, no summer gathering is complete without these smoky, spicy ears of corn – they disappear faster than I can make them!

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What makes this recipe truly special is its incredible versatility. You can grill the corn for authentic charred flavor, roast it in the oven when weather doesn’t cooperate, or even use frozen corn in a pinch. The chipotle mayo can be adjusted for heat preference, and the toppings are endlessly customizable. Whether you’re serving it as a side or making it the star of your meal, this corn always delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Why This Easy Smoky Chipotle Corn on the Cob?

Selling Points:

Bold, restaurant-quality flavors at home – Impressive taste with simple ingredients
Ready in 15 minutes – Faster than driving to get takeout
Customizable heat level – Make it mild or fiery hot
Multiple cooking methods – Works grilled, roasted, or boiled
Crowd-pleasing side – Always the first dish to disappear at parties

What You Need for Easy Smoky Chipotle Corn on the Cob

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Ingredients:

4 ears fresh corn, husks removed
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1-2 tsp chipotle in adobo sauce (adjust for heat preference)
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 lime, cut into wedges
1/4 cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
Optional: extra adobo sauce for drizzling

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How to Make Easy Smoky Chipotle Corn on the Cob

Prepare corn: Bring large pot of water to boil. Add corn and cook 5-7 minutes until tender. Alternatively, grill over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally.
Make chipotle mayo: In small bowl, mix mayonnaise, chipotle, smoked paprika, garlic powder and salt.
Coat corn: Using a brush or spoon, generously spread chipotle mayo mixture over hot corn.
Add toppings: Sprinkle with cheese and cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges.
Extra kick option: Drizzle with additional adobo sauce if more heat is desired.

Tips for the Perfect Smoky Chipotle Corn

Grill for best flavor – Charred kernels add incredible depth
Adjust heat carefully – Start with 1 tsp chipotle and add more if needed
Use fresh lime – Bottled juice can’t compare to fresh-squeezed
Serve immediately – Best enjoyed hot off the grill/stove
Double the sauce – You’ll want extra for dipping

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Substitutions and Variations

Dairy-free: Omit cheese or use nutritional yeast
Vegan: Use vegan mayo and cheese alternatives
Spice alternatives: Ancho chili powder or regular paprika in a pinch
Herb options: Substitute parsley or green onions for cilantro
Shortcut version: Use frozen corn on the cob – microwave then coat

Make a Healthier Version

Substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayo
Reduce cheese amount or use low-fat version
Increase lime juice for more flavor with less fat
Add extra veggies like diced bell peppers

Closing for Easy Smoky Chipotle Corn on the Cob

This Smoky Chipotle Corn on the Cob transforms a simple summer staple into an unforgettable flavor experience. The combination of spicy, smoky, creamy, and tangy hits all the right notes, making it impossible to eat just one ear. Perfect for cookouts, potlucks, or elevating your weeknight dinners, this recipe proves that big flavor doesn’t require complicated techniques. One bite and you’ll be hooked – this may just become your new favorite way to enjoy corn!

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Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Smoky Chipotle Corn on the Cob

Can I make this ahead of time?
Best served fresh, but you can prep the sauce up to 3 days in advance.
How spicy is this?
Start with 1 tsp chipotle for mild heat; increase to 2 tsp for more kick.
Can I use canned chipotle peppers?
Yes, that’s exactly what you should use – they come in small cans with adobo sauce.
What if I can’t find cotija cheese?
Feta makes an excellent substitute with similar salty, crumbly texture.
Can I make this with frozen corn?
Yes, cook according to package directions then proceed with recipe.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate up to 2 days, but texture is best when fresh.
Can I make this on the grill?
Absolutely! Grilling adds wonderful charred flavor – cook about 10 minutes, turning often.
What main dishes pair well?
Perfect with grilled meats, tacos, or as part of a Mexican-inspired feast.
Is there a way to make it less messy?
Cut kernels off cob after cooking and serve as a salad or side dish.
Can I use regular paprika?
Yes, but smoked paprika adds deeper flavor – worth seeking out.
How do I prevent the cheese from sliding off?
Apply cheese immediately after mayo while corn is still hot.
Can I make this vegan?
Use vegan mayo and omit cheese or use plant-based alternative.

This Smoky Chipotle Corn on the Cob recipe takes a beloved summer vegetable and elevates it to new heights with bold Mexican-inspired flavors. The creamy, spicy chipotle mayo clings to sweet corn kernels, while crumbled cheese and fresh lime add brightness and texture. What makes it truly special is how easily it comes together – with just a few ingredients and minutes of prep, you can transform ordinary corn into an extraordinary side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just want to jazz up weeknight dinners, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The perfect balance of heat, smoke, and freshness makes it endlessly craveable – one taste and you’ll understand why it’s destined to become your new summer staple.