These Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites are packed with flavor and fun! Tender chicken pieces are coated in a rich, buttery sauce with hints of garlic and spices—perfect for a tasty snack.
They’re great for parties, game nights, or just when you need a quick bite. I love serving them with toothpicks so everyone can grab one easily. What a hit they are! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs work well for juiciness, but breasts are a leaner option. You could use tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative, just remember to adjust cooking times!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for cooking, but if you’re dairy-free, you can substitute it with olive oil or vegan butter for a similar flavor.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a unique smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works too, or you can try adding a drop of liquid smoke for that essence. Adjust the cayenne for more or less heat!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Just use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
Herbs: Fresh parsley adds a nice touch, but feel free to get creative! Chopped green onions or cilantro can also brighten this dish.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the chicken perfectly cooked can be tricky. Here’s how to do it right!
- **Prep the Chicken:** Make sure the chicken pieces are even in size for uniform cooking. Pat dry to help them sear nicely.
- **Heat the Pan:** Start with a hot skillet to create a lovely golden crust. This locks in flavor.
- **Single Layer Cooking:** Avoid overcrowding the pan. This allows the chicken to brown rather than steam.
- **Cook Time:** Generally, 4-5 minutes per side is enough. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (75°C) is the target for chicken.
Following these tips will help you achieve juicy, perfectly cooked chicken bites every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Cowboy Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 15-20 minutes to cook, making it a quick and delicious option for any meal. It’s perfect for busy weekdays or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and set this flavorful spice mixture aside.
2. Coat the Chicken:
Take the chicken pieces and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely! Toss the chicken in the spice mixture, making sure each piece is evenly coated with the spices. Yum!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are nicely browned and cooked all the way through. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. When the butter has melted, add in the minced garlic. Cook this for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
5. Toss the Chicken in the Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet. Toss them in the garlic butter sauce, letting them soak up all those delicious flavors for another 1-2 minutes.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish your chicken bites with freshly chopped parsley. If you like, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an extra zing! Serve immediately, and for a Southern twist, place the bites on a platter over creamy grits or mashed potatoes.
Enjoy these tender, flavorful Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites as appetizers or as a delightful main dish. They are sure to impress!
Can I Use a Different Type of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless thighs and breasts are recommended for tenderness and flavor, you can also use chicken tenders or even bone-in pieces—just adjust the cooking time accordingly for bone-in chicken.
How Can I Adjust the Spiciness of This Dish?
You can easily control the heat! To make it milder, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. If you prefer more spice, feel free to add extra cayenne or a splash of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce at the end!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coat it with the spice mix in advance. Store the seasoned chicken in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Cooked chicken bites can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; just reheat gently before serving.
What Should I Serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites?
These bites pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, creamy grits, or even roasted vegetables. You can also serve them as appetizers with toothpicks for easy snacking. Enjoy getting creative with your sides!
