These Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are a fun and tasty dish! Tender chicken pieces are cooked on skewers and coated in a buttery, herby sauce that makes your taste buds dance.
Who doesn’t love grilled chicken with a fancy twist? I like to serve these skewers with fresh veggies or a simple salad. They’re perfect for parties or just a cozy night in! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness, but you can easily use chicken breasts if that’s what you have on hand. Cut into 1.5-inch chunks for even cooking.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for this recipe as it allows you to control the salt. If you’re looking for a healthier option, olive oil can be a great substitute, though it will change the flavor a bit.
Smoked Paprika: This spice adds a rich smokiness. If you can’t find it, regular paprika or even chipotle powder can work as a substitute, though it will taste different. I’ve come to love the depth that smoked paprika brings!
Herbs and Spices: Feel free to adjust spices based on your taste. Add more cayenne for heat or experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different twist.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Skewers are Juicy and Flavorful?
The marinade is key for tender and tasty chicken skewers. Make sure to let the chicken soak in the marinade for at least an hour, but if you can, aim for 2-4 hours in the fridge. This really helps the flavors penetrate the chicken.
- After marinating, thread the chicken evenly onto the skewers to promote even cooking.
- Preheat your grill properly; medium-high heat is perfect for that lovely char.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill; give each skewer some space for even cooking.
Keep an eye on them, turning carefully, to prevent burning and ensure they reach that perfect 165°F internal temperature. Enjoy every juicy bite!
Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1.5-inch chunks
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soaked in water for 30 minutes prior to use)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 1 hour of marinating time. Cooking on the grill will take around 10-12 minutes. So, plan for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish, including the time to let the chicken soak up those delicious flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Flavorful Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, optional cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth and aromatic marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade. Toss them gently until all the pieces are thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate. Let them marinate for at least 1 hour—ideally 2-4 hours to really soak in the flavors!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This helps to sear the chicken and gives it that wonderful charred flavor.
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Once marinated, take the chicken out of the fridge and thread the pieces onto skewers. Make sure not to overcrowd the skewers; leave some space for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, turning gently. The skewers are done when the chicken is cooked through and has a beautiful char. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Finish with Extra Flavor:
After removing the skewers from the grill, brush them with any remaining melted butter or marinade. This adds an extra boost of flavor and makes them shiny!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle fresh parsley over the skewers for a lovely pop of color and flavor. Serve them immediately with a simple dipping sauce made by mixing more melted butter, garlic, herbs, and a pinch of chili flakes for that signature “Cowboy Butter” experience.
Enjoy these juicy, buttery chicken skewers that promise a smoky, savory punch with every delightful bite!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts! Just keep in mind that they may dry out during grilling if overcooked, so watch the cooking time closely and aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, olive oil is a great substitute for butter. It will change the flavor slightly, but it will still keep your chicken moist and delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat to maintain their juiciness.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the chicken when you’re ready to cook! Marinating longer can enhance the flavor even more.
