These Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are juicy, flavorful, and a total crowd-pleaser! Marinated in a tasty butter sauce with herbs, they’re perfect for grilling or baking.
Who doesn’t love juicy chicken on a stick? I can never get enough of these skewers at summer barbecues. Pair them with a fresh salad, and dinner is served—so simple!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless chicken breasts or thighs are the best for this recipe. If you prefer a healthier option, you could use turkey. For a vegetarian twist, try firm tofu or tempeh, cubed and marinated.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal because you can control the salt. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use olive oil instead. For a dairy-free version, coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative works great!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder can be a quick substitute in a pinch. Just use about 1/3 teaspoon per clove.
Spices: The smoked paprika adds a wonderful smokiness. You can swap it out with regular paprika if needed. Don’t have chili powder? A pinch of cayenne pepper will add a kick!
How Do I Get My Chicken Skewers to Cook Evenly?
Cooking chicken evenly on skewers is all about preparation and monitoring. First, make sure the chicken is cut into uniform cubes; this helps them cook at the same rate.
- Marinate the chicken for at least half an hour. This keeps it juicy and enhances flavor.
- Preheat your grill or broiler thoroughly to ensure a good sear and to cook through without drying out.
- Leave space between chicken pieces on the skewers for heat circulation, leading to even cooking.
- Turn the skewers regularly while cooking, about every 2-3 minutes, to get all sides evenly browned.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked and delicious chicken skewers every time!
Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Skewers (if wooden, soaked in water 30 minutes before grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating. If you can, let the chicken marinate for 1-2 hours for an extra boost of flavor. Cooking time is approximately 10-12 minutes, making this meal quick yet delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Whisk Together the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and fresh lemon juice. Whisk everything together until well blended to create a rich marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, making sure all pieces are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For a deeper flavor, letting it marinate for 1 to 2 hours is even better!
3. Prepare for Cooking:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or broiler to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure you soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once marinated, thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a little space in between each piece. This allows for better air circulation while cooking and helps achieve a nice char.
5. Grill or Broil the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill or under the broiler. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning the skewers occasionally to ensure even cooking and a nice golden-brown color on the edges. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, like rice, salad, or grilled veggies. Enjoy your flavorful and buttery Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers!
FAQ about Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Other Proteins for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, pork, or even beef. Just adjust the cooking time as different proteins may cook at different rates. For shrimp, about 5-7 minutes should suffice. For pork or beef, ensure they are cooked to the appropriate internal temperature.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. If you want to assemble the skewers ahead of time, you can do that as well—just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover chicken skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave or a preheated oven until warmed through. You can also toss them in a hot skillet for a quick reheat on the stove.
What Can I Serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with various sides! Try serving them over rice, with a fresh salad, or alongside grilled vegetables. For a fun twist, you could even serve them with some warm pita and tzatziki sauce!
