These Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are juicy and full of flavor! They combine tender chicken pieces with a delicious buttery sauce and spices that make your taste buds dance.
They’re super fun to make and perfect for barbecues! I love serving them with some veggies and dipping sauce. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to keep grilling all summer long! 🌞🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use either chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey breast also works well!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best to control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, substitute with olive oil or vegan butter. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious!
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a great smoky flavor, but if you don’t have it, sweet paprika or regular paprika will do. For a different kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne or chipotle powder!
Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens up the dish, but you could also use cilantro or even green onions for a different flavor twist.
What’s the Best Way to Marinate Chicken for Skewers?
Marinating your chicken allows those wonderful flavors to infuse into the meat. The longer, the better! To get the best results:
- Mix the marinade well to combine all flavors. Make sure your chicken pieces are thoroughly coated.
- Use a bowl with a lid or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent spills and keep flavors locked in.
- Refrigerate it for at least an hour. If you can leave it overnight, that’s even better for tenderness!
Don’t forget to discard any leftover marinade that has been in contact with raw chicken to avoid cross-contamination. Happy grilling!
Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of half a lemon
- Bamboo or metal skewers (if bamboo, soaked in water for 30 minutes before using)
- Optional dipping sauce: ranch, BBQ sauce, or a spicy mustard sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe typically requires about 15 minutes for prep time and 10-15 minutes for grilling. Plus, you should allow for at least 1 hour of marinating time to enhance the flavor of the chicken. So, in total, plan for around 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Cowboy Butter Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. This will create a rich and flavorful marinade for your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure to toss them well until they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. For even tastier chicken, you can let it marinate for up to 4 hours.
3. Prepare to Grill:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and get those perfect grill marks!
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Take the marinated chicken pieces and thread them onto the skewers. Be sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and they have nice grill marks.
6. Finish with Lemon:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill. Immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over them to add a zesty touch!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the skewers for a burst of color and flavor. Serve the skewers hot with your choice of dipping sauce, and consider pairing them with sides like grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your delicious, buttery, and smoky Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them a great option for skewers. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a minute or two longer to reach the right internal temperature.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you want to kick up the heat, add more cayenne pepper to the marinade or mix in some diced fresh jalapeños before grilling. You can also serve the skewers with a spicy dipping sauce to add some extra spice!
Can I Prepare the Marinade in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just add the chicken the day of grilling. This will save you time and let the flavors develop even more!
What Should I Do With Leftover Skewers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the grill to retain that delicious flavor. They’re also great sliced on salads or warm wraps!
