These Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are bursting with flavor, thanks to a zesty butter sauce that makes everything delicious! Perfect for the grill or oven, they are easy and fun to make.
Who knew chicken could be so exciting? Just thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, cook, and enjoy a taste that’s just as bold as a cowboy! You won’t want to stop at one! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy texture, but chicken breasts work just fine too! If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey breast can also work.
Butter: Unsalted butter is great, but you can use ghee for a dairy-free twist. It will still give you that rich flavor without the milk solids.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a delightful smokiness. If you can’t find it, regular paprika mixed with a touch of liquid smoke is a fine substitute. Just watch the amount, as liquid smoke can be potent.
Cheese: I love crumbled blue cheese for its sharp flavor, but feta adds a nice tang too. If you’re avoiding dairy, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the milk.
What’s the Best Way to Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating chicken is key to making these skewers flavorful. Here’s how I do it:
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Make sure to whisk it well!
- When adding chicken, toss until you see each piece glistening with that buttery marinade.
- Let it marinate for at least an hour; if possible, leave it for up to four hours. This allows flavors to penetrate and makes the chicken juicy.
For added convenience, try combining the marinade and chicken in a resealable bag. It saves on cleanup and allows for easy mixing!
Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese or feta (optional, for topping)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes prior to use)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, plus at least 1 hour for marination (or up to 4 hours for more flavor!). In total, plan for about 1 hour and 30 minutes to get everything ready and deliciously grilled!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, black pepper, and apple cider vinegar. This creates a rich, flavorful marinade that will soak into the chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken pieces to the marinade. Toss gently until each piece is coated well with the mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For better flavor, try to let it marinate for up to 4 hours.
3. Prepare for Cooking:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using the oven, preheat the broiler. Get your skewers ready by threading the marinated chicken onto them, packing them closely but avoiding overcrowding.
4. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 12-15 minutes, turning them occasionally to get nice char marks. Make sure the chicken is cooked through; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If broiling, place the skewers on a foil-lined baking sheet and broil for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill or oven and place them on a serving platter. Drizzle any leftover melted butter marinade over the top for extra flavor. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and crumbled blue cheese or feta while still hot. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or the remaining butter sauce on the side!
Enjoy these bold and flavorful Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers that bring a touch of smoky, buttery goodness to your meal! They’re perfect for a summer barbecue or an easy weeknight dinner!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add extra flavor to the skewers. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for easy handling and cooking!
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?
Yes, you can! Preheat your broiler and place the skewers on a foil-lined baking sheet. Broil for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
The chicken can be marinated for at least 1 hour, but for optimal flavor, try to marinate it for up to 4 hours. Just be careful not to marinate too long (more than 8 hours) as the acid can change the texture of the chicken.
What Should I Serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or a side of rice or quinoa to soak up that delicious butter sauce. You could also serve them with dipping sauces like ranch or a spicy aioli for added flavor!
