These Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are a fun twist on grilling! Tender chicken pieces are marinated in a tasty blend of spices and coated in a buttery sauce. They’re packed with flavor!
Cooking these skewers is a breeze! Just marinate, skewer, and grill. I love serving them with some fresh veggies for a colorful plate. They always make me feel like a grilling pro! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use boneless, skinless breasts or thighs depending on your preference. Thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner. If you’re looking for a plant-based option, try using firm tofu or seitan as a substitute.
Butter: Unsalted butter is vital for controlling salt levels. If you want a dairy-free alternative, use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute that will still give a silky finish to the dish.
Spices: Smoked paprika is key for a rich flavor; if you don’t have it, regular paprika works too. You can adjust the chili powder and cayenne for the heat level you like. Feel free to omit it or lessen it for a milder taste.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds great flavor. You can swap it with garlic powder if needed, just remember to use less since it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Chicken Skewers?
Getting juicy chicken skewers means proper marinating and cooking techniques. Here’s how to make sure they turn out great:
- Marinating: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours. This enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high so that the chicken sears nicely. Avoid the urge to move it around too much; let it develop that beautiful char.
- Cooking Time: Grill the chicken for about 10-12 minutes. Make sure to turn every 3-4 minutes for even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
- Resting: After grilling, let the skewers rest for a couple of minutes. This helps retain moisture and makes for juicy bites!
Get ready to enjoy these delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers with your favorite sides!
Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soaked in water for 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to marinate, with around 10-12 minutes for grilling. So, you’ll have delicious chicken skewers ready in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, onion powder, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and creates a smooth marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the bowl with the marinade and toss them well to ensure that each piece is coated evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for even richer flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which is around 400°F (200°C). If you’re using an oven, you can preheat the broiler for the same purpose.
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Once the chicken is done marinating, take the skewers and thread the marinated chicken pieces onto them, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the hot grill (or under the broiler). Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, turning the skewers every 3-4 minutes to ensure they cook evenly and get nice grill marks. Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Rest and Garnish:
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for about 2-3 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute for juicy bites. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the cowboy butter chicken skewers hot with your favorite sides, like grilled veggies, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious and flavorful skewers!
FAQ for Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are actually juicier and can add more flavor to the skewers. Just ensure they’re cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) as well.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will work fine. For an extra smoky flavor, you can also add a touch of liquid smoke to the marinade.
How Can I Adjust This Recipe for a Spicier Kick?
If you’d like it spicier, increase the cayenne pepper or add some chopped jalapeños to the marinade. You can also serve with a spicy dipping sauce on the side!
Can These Skewers Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 4 hours in advance. For meal prep, you can also fully assemble the skewers and store them in the fridge for up to 1 day before grilling.
Enjoy your cowboy butter chicken skewers, and feel free to experiment with the ingredients to suit your tastes!
