Get ready for some tasty Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers! These juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a rich buttery sauce with garlic and herbs, then grilled to perfection. Yum!
These skewers are not just easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser at any gathering! I love serving them with fresh veggies or rice on the side. They’re sure to make everyone smile! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result. If you prefer lighter meat, chicken breasts work too. You can even use tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option!
Butter: Unsalted butter is the best choice for this marinade. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using olive oil or vegan butter for a similar richness.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a nice depth, but sweet paprika can do the trick if that’s what you have. If you’re after more heat, add some cayenne pepper to the mix.
Herbs: Fresh parsley is fantastic, but you can switch it up. Cilantro or chives add a nice twist, depending on your taste.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is key to juicy and flavorful skewers. Let the chicken soak in the marinade for at least 1 hour, but ideally up to 4 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply.
- After marinating, let the excess marinade drip off before skewering to avoid flare-ups on the grill.
- Keep an eye on the grill temperature; cooking too high can dry out the chicken.
Don’t forget to let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute the meat. Enjoy your delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers! 🌟
Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before using)
For the Cowboy Butter Marinade:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare (including time to cut the chicken and mix the marinade). You’ll want to let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you can, aim for 3-4 hours for the best flavor. Cooking on the grill will take about 10-12 minutes. Overall, plan for around 1 hour and 30 minutes, mostly for marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cowboy Butter Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, oregano, onion powder, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and smooth. This is your cowboy butter marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade in the bowl. Toss the chicken until all pieces are evenly coated. This is where the flavors really start to build! Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour, or ideally, 3-4 hours if you have time to let those flavors soak in.
3. Get the Grill Ready:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). If you’re using an oven broiler, set it to high and place your rack about 6 inches from the heat source.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. Thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, making sure to leave some space between each piece. This allows for even cooking and that lovely charred flavor!
5. Grill the Chicken Skewers:
Place the skewers on the hot grill. Grill them for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden char on the outside. Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices in the chicken. Now it’s time to serve! Garnish your skewers with extra chopped parsley and feel free to serve with the leftover marinade or your favorite dipping sauce on the side.
Enjoy these savory, buttery chicken skewers that burst with smoky, garlicky flavors—a perfect dish for a BBQ or family meal! Your taste buds will thank you! 🌟
Can I Use Different Types of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken is the star here, you can use shrimp, beef, or even vegetarian options like tofu or tempeh. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly!
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you need a dairy-free alternative, olive oil or vegan butter works great! Olive oil will give you a slightly different flavor, but it’s still 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, simply warm them in the oven or a skillet over medium-low heat to retain their juiciness.
Can I Grill These Skewers Indoors?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, use a grill pan on the stovetop. Cook over medium-high heat to achieve a nice sear, just like you would on a grill.