Spicy Chili-Lime Butter Lobster Tails
Turn up the heat with these fiery and flavorful lobster tails. Infused with a rich chili-lime butter, these tender tails deliver just the right amount of kick with every juicy bite. This recipe is perfect for impressing guests, elevating a date night, or treating yourself to something unforgettable.
What You’ll Need
4 lobster tails, shell-on but split and loosened
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon avocado oil or light olive oil
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 tablespoon chili crisp or chili garlic sauce
1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
½ teaspoon lime zest
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro or scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Lime wedges for serving
Step One: Prep the Lobster
Preheat your oven to 400°F or 200°C.
Use kitchen shears to cut along the top of each lobster shell lengthwise, stopping just before the tail fin. Gently lift the meat out and rest it on top of the shell, keeping it connected at the base. This will allow the seasoning and butter to soak directly into the meat while keeping that classic presentation.
Pat the lobster meat dry with a paper towel and season lightly with salt. Set aside.
Step Two: Make the Chili-Lime Butter
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the oil. Once hot, stir in the garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant.
Add the chili crisp or chili garlic sauce, chipotle chili powder, lime zest, and lime juice. Stir everything together and simmer for another 30 seconds to combine. Taste and add a pinch of salt if needed.
Remove from heat and let the butter sit while you prep the baking tray.
Step Three: Roast the Lobster
Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and place the prepared lobster tails on top.
Spoon the spicy chili-lime butter generously over the lobster meat, allowing some to drip into the shell for added flavor.
Roast in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes, depending on the size of the tails.