These Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are an explosion of flavor! Tender chicken is marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, garlic, and lemon, then grilled to perfection and slathered in a rich, savory cowboy butter. This recipe is perfect for a summer barbecue, a quick weeknight dinner, or any time you crave a delicious and easy meal. The combination of smoky char, tangy citrus, and herbaceous butter is simply irresistible.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into uniform strips
For the Cowboy Butter:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest from ½ lemon + 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Preparation:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl or resealable plastic bag, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Add the chicken slices and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
Step 2: Prepare the Cowboy Butter
In a separate bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, lemon zest and juice, Dijon mustard, paprika, red pepper flakes, chopped chives, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Divide the butter mixture, setting aside half to brush over the skewers after cooking.
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken slices onto skewers, ensuring they are evenly spaced and not overcrowded. If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Step 4: Grill the Skewers
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-450°F or 190-230°C). Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for 4–5 minutes per side, basting with the cowboy butter throughout the cooking process. The chicken should be golden brown and slightly charred.
Step 5: Serve
Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking that it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer. Remove the skewers from the grill. Brush with the reserved cowboy butter and sprinkle with fresh parsley or extra chives, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the symphony of flavors!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of the zesty marinade and the savory cowboy butter creates a complex and delicious flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is relatively quick to prepare and cook, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the recipe to your liking by adjusting the amount of spice or adding other herbs and spices.
- Perfect for Grilling: Grilling adds a smoky char that enhances the overall flavor of the chicken and cowboy butter.
- Impressive Presentation: The colorful skewers look visually appealing, making them a great option for entertaining.
DRINK Rating
I would rate this chicken dish a 4/5. Delicious with a great burst of flavor!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the skewers with a side of grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions.
- Pair them with a fresh salad, such as a mixed green salad or a coleslaw.
- Serve with rice or quinoa for a more substantial meal.
- Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
- Serve on top of a salad for a light, protein-packed lunch.
- Wrap in warm pita bread with your favorite toppings for a delicious handheld meal.
Tips:
- For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers, as this will prevent the chicken from cooking evenly.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of spice.
- The cowboy butter can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices in the cowboy butter, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika.
- For extra flavor, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the chicken after grilling.
- Leftover skewers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Preparation Time:
- Marinating: 30 minutes to overnight
- Preparation: 15 minutes
Cook Time:
- 10-12 minutes
Total Time:
- 55 minutes (minimum)
Nutrition Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 350-450 per serving (depending on portion size and ingredients)
- Protein: Approximately 30-40 grams per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 400-600mg per serving
Conclusion
Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are a delicious and easy way to elevate your grilling game. With their flavorful marinade, savory cowboy butter, and customizable ingredients, these skewers are sure to become a new family favorite. So fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
Here are 5 frequently asked questions and their answers about these Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers:
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can definitely use chicken thighs! They will result in a more tender and juicy skewer due to their higher fat content. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Q2: Can I make this recipe without a grill?
A: Absolutely! If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the skewers in a skillet or under the broiler. If using a skillet, cook over medium-high heat until the chicken is cooked through and browned. If using a broiler, place the skewers on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes per side, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Q3: Can I prepare the chicken and cowboy butter ahead of time?
A: Yes, both the chicken and cowboy butter can be prepared in advance. You can marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor. The cowboy butter can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just bring it to room temperature before using.
Q4: What other vegetables can I grill with the chicken skewers?
A: The possibilities are endless! Some great options include bell peppers, zucchini, onions, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms. Just be sure to cut the vegetables into similar sizes so they cook evenly. You can even thread the vegetables onto the same skewers as the chicken for a colorful and flavorful meal.
Q5: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A: If you like things spicy, there are several ways to kick up the heat in this recipe. You can add more red pepper flakes to the marinade and/or cowboy butter. You could also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cowboy butter. For an extra kick, try using a spicy paprika
