Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers

Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are a mouthwatering fusion of juicy, marinated chicken and a bold, flavorful dipping sauce that combines savory, tangy, and slightly spicy notes. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or even an indulgent weeknight treat. The skewers feature tender chunks of chicken that are marinated in a garlicky, buttery, and herby blend before being grilled to perfection. The dish is served with an irresistible cowboy butter dipping sauce, which combines melted butter, fresh herbs, lemon juice, garlic, and a hint of spice for the ultimate flavor explosion. This crowd-pleasing recipe is simple, fun to prepare, and ideal for those who love bold, rustic flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers bring a vibrant burst of flavor to your plate, making it a must-try for fans of grilled chicken with a gourmet twist. The cowboy butter sauce is a game-changer—its luxurious, buttery base is enhanced with zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and a dash of heat, making it the ultimate pairing for the juicy, smoky chicken. These skewers are perfect for entertaining, as they’re easy to make, visually impressive, and customizable to suit any taste preference. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using a stovetop grill pan, you’ll love the combination of tender chicken and the rich dipping sauce that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus 1 hour for marinating)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: 2–3 skewers per person

Nutritional Information (per serving, without dipping sauce):

• Calories: 280
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Protein: 27g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Ingredients

For the chicken skewers:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes if using)

For the cowboy butter dipping sauce:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken chunks to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to a resealable plastic bag. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Cowboy Butter Dipping Sauce

1. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat, being careful not to let it brown.
2. Stir in the lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, parsley, and chives. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Keep the sauce warm on low heat or transfer it to a small bowl for serving. Stir occasionally to keep the ingredients evenly mixed.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
2. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a small amount of space between each piece to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken Skewers

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375–400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
2. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 12–15 minutes, turning every few minutes to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be golden brown with slight charring on the edges and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
3. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Arrange the chicken skewers on a platter and serve with the warm cowboy butter dipping sauce on the side.
2. Garnish with extra parsley or chives for a fresh, vibrant touch.

Ingredient Background

Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe due to their natural juiciness and ability to stay tender on the grill. However, chicken breasts are a leaner option and work equally well when marinated to lock in moisture and flavor.

Cowboy Butter Sauce

Cowboy butter sauce is a decadent blend of butter, fresh herbs, and spices that originated as a steak dipping sauce. It’s incredibly versatile and complements the smoky, grilled chicken beautifully. The lemon juice cuts through the richness of the butter, while the garlic and Dijon mustard add bold savory notes.

Spices

Smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder give the chicken a smoky, slightly spicy kick. These spices work together to create a flavor profile that’s bold yet well-rounded, making the chicken irresistible.

Technique Tips

1. Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour to ensure it absorbs all the flavors. For best results, marinate for up to 4 hours.
2. Keep Skewers Uniform: When threading the chicken, ensure the pieces are similar in size for even cooking.
3. Oil the Grill Grates: Lightly oiling the grill prevents sticking and helps achieve those beautiful grill marks.
4. Monitor the Sauce: Keep the cowboy butter sauce warm, but avoid overheating it, as the butter may separate. Stir occasionally to maintain its consistency.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

1. Platter Style: Serve the grilled chicken pieces off the skewers on a large platter with the cowboy butter sauce drizzled over the top. Garnish with chopped herbs.
2. Bowls: Create a complete meal by serving the chicken skewers over a bed of rice or quinoa with a drizzle of the butter sauce.
3. Tacos: Remove the chicken from the skewers and use it as a filling for tacos. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of the cowboy butter sauce.

Additional Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and chives enhance the flavor of the cowboy butter sauce and add a pop of color.
2. Don’t Overcook: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
3. Preheat the Grill: Starting with a hot grill ensures even cooking and prevents the chicken from sticking.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with large chunks of tofu or vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Marinate and grill them as you would the chicken.
2. Spicy Cowboy Butter: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cowboy butter sauce for an extra kick.
3. Citrus Herb Twist: Replace the lemon juice in the sauce with orange or lime juice for a different flavor profile.
4. Asian-Inspired Skewers: Add soy sauce and a touch of honey to the marinade for an Asian-inspired variation.

Freezing and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the cowboy butter sauce in a separate container and refrigerate for up to 3 days as well. Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Freezing Tips

The marinated chicken can be frozen before grilling. Place the chicken pieces and marinade in a freezer-safe bag, remove as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before threading onto skewers and grilling.

Healthier Twist Ideas

1. Light Butter Sauce: Use half butter and half olive oil for a lighter version of the dipping sauce.
2. Low-Sodium Option: Reduce the salt in both the marinade and the cowboy butter sauce to make the recipe heart-healthy.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Add grilled vegetables to the skewers for a balanced meal that includes more fiber and nutrients.
4. Yogurt Marinade: Substitute the oil-based marinade with a Greek yogurt-based marinade to add protein and a tangy flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Events

1. Summer Barbecue: Pair the chicken skewers with grilled corn on the cob, potato salad, and fresh lemonade for the ultimate summer meal.
2. Game Day Snack: Serve the skewers as an appetizer alongside other finger foods like sliders, wings, and chips with dip.
3. Dinner Party Platter: Arrange the skewers on a decorative platter with the cowboy butter sauce in the center for a stunning presentation.

Special Equipment

1. Grill or Grill Pan: A grill adds the signature smoky flavor, but a stovetop grill pan works well too.
2. Meat Thermometer: Essential for ensuring the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
3. Small Saucepan: For preparing and warming the cowboy butter sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the skewers on a lined baking sheet for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for a charred effect.

2. What can I substitute for butter in the sauce?

You can use ghee or olive oil as a butter substitute for a dairy-free option.

3. How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?

Preheat the grill properly and oil the grates before placing the skewers on them.

4. Can I make the skewers ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers up to 1 day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to grill.

5. Is cowboy butter sauce spicy?

The sauce has a mild kick from the red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or less.

6. What sides go well with these skewers?

Grilled vegetables, a side salad, roasted potatoes, or garlic bread pair wonderfully with these skewers.

7. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely before marinating to ensure even absorption of flavors.

8. How do I store leftover cowboy butter sauce?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving to prevent separation.

Conclusion

Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are a flavor-packed dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. The juicy, smoky chicken pairs beautifully with the rich, buttery dipping sauce, creating a combination that will leave everyone asking for the recipe. Whether you’re grilling for a summer party or preparing a quick family meal, this dish brings bold flavors and rustic charm to your table. So grab your skewers, fire up the grill, and treat yourself to this irresistible crowd-pleaser!

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