These Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are a game-changer for your summer grilling sessions. Packed with bold flavors from the smoky paprika and creamy butter sauce, they offer a juicy and tender bite that’s perfect for any outdoor cookout or family dinner. Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re sure to become a new favorite for your BBQ parties!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Directions:
- In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, lemon juice, parsley, garlic, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to create the cowboy butter sauce.
- Thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Brush the chicken skewers with some of the cowboy butter sauce and grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and brush with additional cowboy butter sauce before serving.
- Garnish with extra chopped parsley and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal per serving
Serves: 4
Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
These Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are the perfect blend of juicy grilled chicken and a rich, savory sauce that will have everyone asking for more! The chicken is marinated in a zesty and flavorful cowboy butter sauce, giving it a delicious, smoky flavor with a hint of garlic and lemon. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard or cooking on a stovetop grill pan, these skewers are quick, easy, and full of flavor. Plus, they make a great dish for summer BBQs, dinner parties, or even a simple weeknight meal.
Why You’ll Love These Chicken Skewers:
- Packed with Flavor: The cowboy butter sauce is a delicious combination of garlic, lemon, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and herbs.
- Grill-Friendly: Perfect for your next BBQ or grilling session, but also easy to cook indoors with a grill pan.
- Simple Ingredients: This recipe requires just a handful of pantry staples, and it’s quick to prepare.
- Versatile: Serve these skewers with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Tips for the Perfect Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers:
- Chicken Selection: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results, as they cook quickly and stay juicy. You can also substitute with boneless thighs if you prefer.
- Skewers: Wooden skewers need to be soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. If you’re using metal skewers, there’s no need for soaking.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: For an extra depth of flavor, let the chicken marinate in the cowboy butter sauce for 30 minutes before grilling. This will allow the flavors to soak into the chicken.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you like your food with a little more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
- Grill Temperature: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before adding the skewers to ensure even cooking and a nice sear on the chicken.
What to Serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers:
These skewers are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of sides:
- Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms are all great options to grill alongside the skewers.
- Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf with herbs will complement the savory flavors of the chicken.
- Crisp Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a lemon vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the cowboy butter sauce.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy, golden potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side dish.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other proteins?
Absolutely! This cowboy butter sauce works wonderfully with shrimp, beef, or even pork. Simply adjust the cooking times based on the protein you use. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken in the cowboy butter sauce for up to 4 hours before grilling. This will help the flavors soak in and make the chicken even more tender. - Can I cook these skewers in the oven?
Yes, if you don’t have access to a grill, you can cook these skewers in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the skewers for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can also broil them for a couple of minutes at the end to get a nice, crispy exterior.
Nutrition Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: 32g
- Carbs: 2g
- Fat: 18g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 0g
Ingredients and Flavor Profile
The key to these Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers is the homemade cowboy butter sauce, which is made with basic ingredients you probably already have in your pantry:
- Butter: The foundation of the sauce, which provides richness and flavor.
- Garlic: Adds that irresistible savory punch.
- Lemon: A touch of citrus balances the richness of the butter and gives the skewers a fresh, zesty kick.
- Dijon Mustard: Brings a slight tanginess that complements the other ingredients.
- Smoked Paprika: This smoky spice gives the chicken a delicious depth of flavor.
- Fresh Parsley: Adds brightness and freshness to the sauce and garnishes the dish.
- Onion Powder: Enhances the overall savory profile.
- Salt & Pepper: To taste, ensuring the flavors are perfectly balanced.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: You don’t need hours of prep. The chicken is ready to be grilled in under 15 minutes, and the grilling time is just 15-20 minutes.
- Flavorful: The cowboy butter sauce adds so much flavor, making each bite of chicken burst with smoky, garlicky goodness.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the level of seasoning to suit your preferences. Add more smoked paprika for extra smokiness or a dash of cayenne for heat.
- Healthy and Delicious: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, and grilling helps keep the dish lighter while enhancing the natural flavors.
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
- Prepare the Skewers: Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes, ensuring each piece is roughly the same size for even cooking. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce: In a bowl, melt the butter and combine it with minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, smoked paprika, parsley, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk it all together until you have a smooth, fragrant sauce.
- Marinate the Chicken: Thread the chicken onto your skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. Brush the skewers generously with the cowboy butter sauce. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to soak into the chicken (you can also marinate them in the fridge for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
- Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, basting with more sauce as they cook. The chicken should be golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the chicken skewers are cooked, remove them from the grill and give them one last brush with the cowboy butter sauce. Garnish with extra parsley and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
- Grilled Vegetables: Pair the chicken skewers with a side of grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or corn on the cob.
- Salads: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would be a great contrast to the richness of the cowboy butter sauce.
- Rice or Potatoes: Serve with a side of jasmine rice, couscous, or even roasted potatoes to complete the meal.
- Dipping Sauces: If you love dipping sauces, serve these skewers with a creamy ranch or a spicy sriracha mayo for extra flavor.
Storage and Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the cooked skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They reheat wonderfully in the microwave or on the grill for a few minutes. Alternatively, you can remove the chicken from the skewers and store it in a sealed container for meal prep, adding it to salads, wraps, or bowls.
Tips for the Best Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Space the chicken out a bit on the skewers so it cooks evenly. This also helps the sauce penetrate each piece better.
- Grill Marks: For beautiful grill marks, avoid moving the skewers too much while grilling. Let each side cook until it develops nice charred lines.
- Rest the Chicken: After removing the skewers from the grill, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite juicy and tender.
These Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are perfect for your next barbecue or family dinner, offering bold, smoky flavors that everyone will love. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll quickly see why it’s destined to become a new favorite in your grilling repertoire!
Conclusion
Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. The rich, smoky cowboy butter sauce makes every bite irresistible, whether you’re grilling for a BBQ or preparing a weeknight meal. Pair with your favorite sides for a complete, satisfying dinner. Try this recipe today and enjoy a new favorite in your kitchen!