Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers Recipe

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These Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are full of flavor and super fun to make! Juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a tasty butter mix and grilled to perfection.

These skewers are a hit at any gathering! I love serving them with fresh veggies and a dipping sauce—so good, you might get tempted to eat them all yourself! 😄

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs provide extra juiciness, but you can also use breasts for a leaner option. If you’re looking for a plant-based choice, consider using tofu or tempeh, cut into cubes!

Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness. If you’re looking to cut down on dairy, try using olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. Both will work well in the marinade.

Spices: Smoked paprika gives the skewers a nice, smoky flavor. If you can’t find it, regular paprika will do, but you’ll miss that depth. Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste for heat.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, using about 1/2 teaspoon for each clove.

How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Tender and Juicy?

Getting perfectly tender chicken is all about marinating! The butter marinade not only adds flavor but also helps keep the chicken from drying out during grilling. Here’s what to remember:

  • Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but aim for 2 hours if possible. This lets the flavors really soak in.
  • Grill at medium-high heat, which helps sear the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
  • Always check your chicken’s temperature. You want it to reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating without overcooking.

Following these tips will help you serve beautifully succulent skewers every time!

Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers Recipe

Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
  • Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken (up to 2 hours for extra flavor) and about 10-15 minutes for grilling. In total, aim for around 1 hour to gather ingredients, marinate, and grill—making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend BBQ!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cowboy Butter Marinade:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. This savory marinade packs a flavorful punch!

2. Marinate the Chicken:

Add the cut chicken pieces to the bowl and toss them well so that they are all coated evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or for a deeper flavor, let it marinate for up to 2 hours. The longer, the better!

3. Prepare the Grill:

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. As it heats up, soak the wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent them from burning while cooking.

4. Assemble the Skewers:

Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. Thread the chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers, fitting about 4-5 pieces per skewer. Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.

5. Grill the Skewers:

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side. You’ll want them to have a nice char on the outside and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This will ensure they are juicy and delicious!

6. Brush with Cowboy Butter:

Once grilled, remove the skewers from the grill and brush any leftover melted cowboy butter from the bowl over the skewers. This adds an extra layer of flavor.

7. Garnish and Serve:

Garnish with the freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve the skewers warm, and enjoy them with your favorite sides or dipping sauces!

These easy cowboy butter chicken skewers are sure to be a hit, delivering juicy, buttery flavors with every bite. Enjoy your grilling!

Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs for a leaner option. Just be mindful not to overcook them, as they can dry out quickly. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes for flavor, but if you have the time, marinating for up to 2 hours will enhance the taste even more. Just avoid marinating overnight, as the chicken might become too salty or mushy from the butter.

What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with These Skewers?

These skewers pair well with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with garlic bread, a fresh salad, roasted veggies, or even rice to soak up the delicious cowboy butter sauce.

How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in the microwave or on the grill for a couple of minutes until heated through. Enjoy!

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