Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are grilled chicken pieces marinated in a tasty garlic butter mix. They are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for summer barbecues!
These skewers bring a smile to my face every time I fire up the grill. I love serving them with fresh veggies and a dipping sauce. It’s like a little taste of the wild west! 🤠
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juiciness. However, chicken breasts work well, too. For a leaner option, turkey can be a good substitute. Just be mindful of cooking times, as turkey may take a bit longer!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the saltiness of your dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try olive oil, though it won’t have that rich buttery flavor. Ghee can also be used and adds a nice nutty taste.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a wonderful depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika is okay, but you might miss out on that smoky touch. Experimenting with other spices, like taco seasoning, can give a fun twist!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is fantastic here, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used. Just use about 1 teaspoon per clove, and adjust to taste.
Dipping Sauce: If you’re not a fan of sour cream, Greek yogurt is a great alternative. You can also use a store-bought dip like ranch or blue cheese for quick prep! For a dairy-free option, try a cashew cream or avocado dip.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting juicy and tender chicken is crucial in this recipe. To ensure proper cooking, follow these tips:
- Marination Time: Let your chicken marinate for at least 1 hour. If you have a couple of hours, that’s even better—it enhances flavor.
- Grilling Temperature: Preheat your grill or pan to medium-high heat. This helps achieve a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside tender.
- Cooking Time: Grill your skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning them halfway through. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Resting: After grilling, let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps lock in the juices!
Following these steps will help you create deliciously grilled chicken every time. Enjoy your barbecue!
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
For the Dipping Sauce (optional):
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp ranch seasoning mix or 1 tsp smoked paprika + 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and at least 1 hour of marination (ideally 2-3 hours) plus 10-12 minutes to grill. So, set aside around 1 hour and 20 minutes to enjoy this delicious dish from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), oregano, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This mixture is your cowboy butter marinade, which will bring lots of flavor to the chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Now, add the cubed chicken to the bowl of marinade. Toss everything together well, making sure all the chicken pieces are coated nicely. Cover the bowl and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour; for the best flavor, let it marinate for 2-3 hours.
3. Prepare for Grilling:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. While it’s heating, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers one by one. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
4. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 10-12 minutes, turning them every few minutes until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. To ensure the chicken is cooked nicely, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Make the Dipping Sauce:
While the chicken is grilling, you can whip up the optional dipping sauce! In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), ranch seasoning (or the smoked paprika and garlic powder), chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt. Set this aside for serving.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken skewers are perfectly grilled, transfer them to a serving platter. Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top to add a nice touch. Serve the skewers hot alongside the dipping sauce!
These Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are flavorful, tender, and will surely be a hit at any meal or gathering. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs actually stay juicier and add a rich flavor to the skewers. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless, and cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the cowboy butter marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just add the chicken when you’re ready to marinate them; it’ll soak up all those delicious flavors!
What Should I Do if I Don’t Have Skewers?
No worries if you don’t have skewers! You can grill the marinated chicken pieces directly on the grill or in a grill pan. Just be sure to flip them halfway through cooking for even grilling.
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them gently on a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for a quick warm-up—just be careful not to overcook them!