Copycat Chili’s Roasted Street Corn: A Flavorful Fiesta

Get ready to elevate your side dish game with this mouthwatering Copycat Chili’s Roasted Street Corn recipe! If you’ve ever enjoyed this delectable treat at Chili’s restaurant and wondered how to recreate it at home, you’re in for a treat. This Mexican-inspired dish, also known as elote, transforms ordinary corn on the cob into an extraordinary culinary experience that’s sure to impress your family and guests alike.

This recipe captures all the authentic flavors of traditional Mexican street corn – sweet, smoky roasted corn coated with a creamy, tangy sauce, then topped with crumbly cotija cheese and fresh cilantro. The combination of flavors and textures creates a perfect balance that makes this side dish absolutely irresistible. Best of all, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home!

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, looking for a unique side dish for your weeknight dinner, or simply craving a taste of Chili’s famous street corn, this copycat recipe will satisfy your cravings and have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make this delicious Chili’s-inspired roasted street corn in your own kitchen.

What Makes This Copycat Recipe Special

What sets this Chili’s Roasted Street Corn apart from regular corn on the cob is the perfect combination of flavors and cooking techniques. The corn is first roasted to enhance its natural sweetness and add a slightly charred flavor. Then, it’s slathered with a creamy, zesty sauce that brings tanginess and richness. Finally, it’s topped with crumbly cotija cheese and fresh cilantro for an authentic Mexican finish.

This copycat recipe stays true to the flavors and presentation of Chili’s popular side dish while allowing you to adjust the seasonings to your preference. You can make it as spicy or mild as you like by adjusting the amount of chili powder and paprika. The end result is a restaurant-quality side dish that’s perfect for any occasion – from casual family dinners to special gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this recipe is that it requires simple, easy-to-find ingredients that come together to create something extraordinary. Here’s everything you’ll need to make Copycat Chili’s Roasted Street Corn:

For the Roasted Corn:

• 4 ears of fresh corn, husked and silks removed
• 4 tablespoons melted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• Kosher salt, to taste

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lime juice
• Pinch of paprika

For the Toppings:

• 2 tablespoons cotija cheese, crumbled (can substitute with feta if needed)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, minced
• Lime wedges, for serving (optional)

Kitchen Tools Required

Before you begin cooking, make sure you have these basic kitchen tools on hand:

• Baking sheet or roasting pan
• Aluminum foil (for lining the baking sheet)
• Small mixing bowl (for the sauce)
• Basting brush (for applying butter mixture)
• Cutting board and knife (for preparing corn and cilantro)
• Measuring spoons
• Citrus juicer (optional, for the lime juice)
• Tongs (for handling hot corn)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create perfectly roasted street corn that rivals Chili’s famous version:

Preparing the Corn

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
3. Remove husks and silks from each ear of corn, then rinse under cold water and pat dry.
4. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, paprika, and chili powder.
5. Place the ears of corn on the prepared baking sheet and brush generously with the seasoned butter mixture, making sure to coat all sides evenly.
6. Sprinkle lightly with kosher salt according to your taste preference.

Roasting the Corn

1. Place the baking sheet with the seasoned corn in the preheated oven.
2. Roast for 25-30 minutes, turning the corn every 10 minutes to ensure even cooking and browning.
3. The corn is done when it’s tender and has developed some golden-brown spots.
4. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before applying the sauce.

Preparing the Creamy Sauce

1. While the corn is roasting, prepare the creamy sauce by combining mayonnaise, sour cream, freshly squeezed lime juice, and a pinch of paprika in a small mixing bowl.
2. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
3. Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more lime juice or paprika if desired.
4. Set aside until the corn is ready.

Assembling Your Chili’s Roasted Street Corn

1. Once the corn has cooled slightly but is still warm, use a brush or knife to spread the creamy sauce evenly over each ear of corn.
2. Sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese over the sauce-coated corn, gently pressing it to adhere.
3. Finish by sprinkling the minced fresh cilantro over the top.
4. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor if desired.

Tips for Perfect Roasted Street Corn

Achieve restaurant-quality results with these helpful tips and tricks:

• Choose Fresh Corn: Look for corn with bright green, tightly wrapped husks and fresh-looking silk. The kernels should be plump and tightly packed.
• Even Roasting: Don’t skip turning the corn during roasting to ensure it cooks evenly on all sides.
• Cheese Substitution: If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta cheese makes a good substitute with a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can roast the corn up to a day ahead and reheat it before adding the toppings for easier entertaining.
• Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder and paprika to suit your spice preference.
• Grilling Alternative: For an extra smoky flavor, you can grill the corn instead of roasting it in the oven.

Serving Suggestions

This Copycat Chili’s Roasted Street Corn makes an excellent accompaniment to a variety of main dishes. Here are some perfect pairings:

• Grilled chicken, steak, or fish
• Tacos, enchiladas, or fajitas
• Burgers or hot dogs at a backyard barbecue
• As part of a Mexican-themed dinner night
• Alongside rice and beans for a complete meal

For a full Chili’s-inspired feast, serve this roasted street corn with other copycat favorites like their famous baby back ribs, southwestern eggrolls, or classic margaritas.

Nutritional Information

For those watching their nutritional intake, here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (one ear of corn with toppings):

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic recipe, consider these delicious variations to keep things interesting:

Spicy Street Corn

Add a diced jalapeño to the butter mixture or sprinkle with red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat.

Garlic Parmesan Version

Replace the cotija cheese with grated parmesan and add 1-2 cloves of minced garlic to the butter mixture for a different flavor profile.

Street Corn Salad

Cut the roasted kernels off the cob and mix with all the toppings for an easy-to-eat salad version that’s perfect for potlucks.

Vegan Alternative

Use vegan butter, vegan mayo, and vegan sour cream alternatives, and replace the cotija cheese with nutritional yeast for a plant-based version.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

If you have leftovers or want to prepare components ahead of time, here’s how to store and reheat your Chili’s Roasted Street Corn:

• Storage: Leftover corn can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: The best way to reheat is in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave on medium power, though the texture won’t be quite as good.
• Make-Ahead Tip: For entertaining, you can roast the corn ahead of time and reheat just before serving, then add the fresh toppings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen or canned corn instead of fresh?

A: Fresh corn on the cob gives the best results for this recipe. Frozen or canned corn won’t achieve the same roasted flavor and texture that makes this dish special.

Q: What can I substitute for cotija cheese if I can’t find it?

A: Feta cheese is the closest substitute in terms of texture and saltiness. You could also use grated parmesan in a pinch, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.

Q: How spicy is this dish?

A: As written, this recipe has a mild to medium spice level. You can adjust the amount of chili powder up or down to suit your preference.

Q: Can I grill the corn instead of roasting it in the oven?

A: Absolutely! Grilling will add a wonderful smoky flavor. Grill over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until charred in spots.

Q: Is this dish gluten-free?

A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels of your specific ingredients, particularly the mayonnaise and spices, to ensure they don’t contain any gluten-based additives.

This Copycat Chili’s Roasted Street Corn is more than just a side dish – it’s a celebration of flavors that brings the restaurant experience right to your dining table. With its perfect balance of sweet corn, creamy sauce, salty cheese, and fresh herbs, it’s sure to become a favorite at your next gathering. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Chili’s version or trying Mexican street corn for the first time, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and the satisfaction of creating this restaurant favorite in your own kitchen!

Author

Anjali Sayee

 

Anjali is an Associate Editor at StyleCraze with 7 years of experience specializing in hairstyles, hair care, and skin care. She has authored over 300 articles and offers expert advice on hair styling techniques, effective skin care routines, and tips for maintaining healthy hair and skin.

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