Chili lime air fryer corn on the cob is a quick side with tender, juicy kernels and lightly browned edges. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C), then cook the corn for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. A little oil helps the spices cling; butter and fresh lime go on after cooking for a bright finish.
Ingredients
- 4 fresh ears of corn, husks and silk removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
How To Make It
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for about 3 minutes. While it heats, rinse the shucked corn under running water and pat it dry. If the ears are too long for the basket, cut them in half crosswise so they fit without being jammed against the sides.
- Brush the corn with olive oil. Mix the chili powder, smoked paprika, and salt, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the ears. Set the corn in the basket in a single layer, leaving a little space for air to circulate. Cook in batches if needed.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, turning the ears halfway through with tongs. Start checking at 10 minutes: the kernels should be hot and tender with a few golden spots. Larger ears or a crowded basket may need another minute or two.
- Transfer the corn to a serving plate. Brush with melted butter, squeeze a lime wedge over each ear, and serve with the remaining wedges for anyone who wants extra tang.
Tips
Drying the corn before seasoning helps the oil coat it evenly. If your air fryer runs hot, check a little early so the chili powder browns without scorching. Avoid stacking the ears; two batches will give more even results than squeezing four large ears into a small basket.
For milder corn, use half the chili powder. For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne to the dry seasoning before cooking. Add the lime only after air frying to keep its flavor fresh. The corn is best served right away, while the butter melts into the warm kernels; let it cool briefly before handling the cobs.
Bring the extra lime wedges to the table and enjoy.
