These Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are a fun and tasty way to enjoy chicken! Juicy pieces of chicken are marinated in a buttery, flavorful sauce that brings a little kick to your meal.
Grilling these skewers is super easy, and they’re perfect for summer BBQs. Plus, who can resist the combo of chicken and butter? Get your friends over, and let the good times roll! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts or thighs work well. Thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, chicken tenders are a great substitute!
Unsalted Butter: This adds richness. If you’re dairy-free, try using olive oil or coconut oil instead. You’ll still get a lovely flavor, though it may change a bit!
Spices: The combination of smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne gives it a nice kick. If you want a stronger spice, switch chili powder for chipotle powder. For milder flavors, skip the cayenne or reduce the amount.
Dipping Sauce: It’s optional but delicious! If you want it spicier, add more hot sauce. You can replace the butter with olive oil for a lighter version.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Grilled Chicken Skewers?
Grilling chicken skewers can be tricky, but here’s how to get it just right! The marinade is key for adding flavor and moisture.
- Marinate for at least an hour—longer is better! It really helps the chicken to soak in the nice buttery flavors.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- Preheat your grill. This ensures even cooking. Medium-high heat is perfect!
- Grill the skewers for 4-6 minutes per side. Use tongs to turn them for even cooking. Look for nice grill marks, but don’t overcook—juicy chicken is the goal.
Enjoy these tips for a fantastic grilling experience! Your delicious cowboy butter chicken skewers will impress everyone at the table.
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soaked in water for 30 minutes)
For the Dipping Sauce (optional but recommended):
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20-30 minutes of active cooking time, plus 1-3 hours for marinating the chicken. With some simple prep and a little waiting, you’ll have deliciously grilled chicken skewers ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper. This marinade is where all the flavor comes from!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken pieces to the marinade and toss them to coat evenly. Make sure every piece is well-covered. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour; if you have more time, letting it marinate for 2-3 hours will give you even better flavor.
3. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. After marinating, thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving some space between each piece for even cooking.
4. Preheat the Grill or Grill Pan:
Heat your grill or a grill pan to medium-high heat. Preheating is essential to achieve those perfect grill marks!
5. Grill the Chicken:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-6 minutes per side, turning occasionally. You want the chicken to be cooked through and have nice grill marks, so be careful not to overcook; juicy chicken is the goal!
6. Make the Dipping Sauce:
While your chicken is grilling, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the hot sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro for extra flavor.
7. Serve:
Arrange the grilled skewers on a platter and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve alongside the warm cowboy butter dipping sauce for that extra flavor boost!
Enjoy your flavorful, juicy Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers with a side of rice, grilled veggies, or a fresh salad! Perfect for any BBQ or casual dinner!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great choice as they’re juicier and have more flavor than breasts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs might take a minute or two longer to cook through.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika or even substitute it with chili powder for some added heat. The flavor will change a bit, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the chicken when you’re ready to cook. This also helps enhance the flavors!
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 briefly on a grill or in the oven to warm through without drying them out. Enjoy them with a salad or as part of a wrap!
