Fire up the grill and get ready for flavor-packed goodness with these Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers. Tender, juicy chicken is grilled to perfection and slathered with a bold, buttery sauce full of garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon, and smoked paprika. These skewers are the perfect blend of rustic comfort and backyard BBQ flair—and they’re incredibly easy to make in just 30 minutes.
Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, craving something smoky and savory, or looking to spice up your weeknight dinner routine, this recipe delivers serious flavor without fuss.
Why You’ll Love Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
- Big, bold flavors – Cowboy butter is rich, zesty, and full of aromatic herbs and spices.
- Perfect for grilling season – Ideal for BBQs, camping, or weeknight dinners on the deck.
- Quick and easy – Just 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Versatile – Serve with sides like rice, grilled vegetables, or warm bread to soak up that sauce.
Who This Recipe Is For
This recipe is for:
- Home cooks who love grilling
- Fans of bold, smoky flavors
- Busy weeknight warriors in need of a no-stress dinner
- Low-carb or keto-friendly eaters (just skip the starchy sides)
- Anyone looking for a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal that’s not complicated
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
For the Cowboy Butter:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowls
- Basting brush
- Knife and cutting board
- Skewers (metal or wooden)
- Tongs or spatula
- Meat thermometer (optional but helpful)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken chunks with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
2. Thread the Skewers
Skewer the seasoned chicken pieces onto soaked wooden or metal skewers. Space them evenly to allow for even cooking.
3. Make the Cowboy Butter
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, parsley, salt, and pepper. Set aside a portion of this mixture for basting, and reserve a little for drizzling after cooking.
4. Grill the Skewers
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 4–5 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until charred and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the skewers frequently with the cowboy butter for a deep, smoky flavor and glossy finish.
5. Serve & Garnish
Transfer the skewers to a serving plate and drizzle with the remaining cowboy butter. Garnish with more parsley and serve with lemon wedges, if desired.
Tips & Variations
✅ Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Juiciness
Chicken thighs stay tender and juicy, even on high heat. Breasts work too, but be careful not to overcook.
✅ Add Veggies to Your Skewers
Bell peppers, red onions, or zucchini make great additions between the chicken pieces.
✅ Try It Indoors
No grill? No problem. Use a grill pan or broil the skewers in the oven for a similar charred effect.
✅ Make It Spicier
Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the cowboy butter for a fiery twist.
Serving Suggestions
These cowboy butter skewers go great with:
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Buttery rice pilaf
- Roasted vegetables
- A fresh garden salad
- Warm pita or flatbread for dipping in extra cowboy butter
Drink Pairings:
- Iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing contrast
- Craft beer or IPA to match the smoky richness
- Chardonnay or rosé for a crisp balance
How to Store Leftovers
Refrigerate:
Store leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat:
Warm them in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Add a little leftover cowboy butter to refresh the flavor.
Freeze:
Freeze cooked, cooled skewers (minus the garnish) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate and skewer the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Keep refrigerated until ready to grill.
Is cowboy butter spicy?
It has a mild heat from red pepper flakes. Adjust to your preference by adding more or less.
Can I bake these instead of grilling?
Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway and basting as you go.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your Dijon mustard and spices are certified gluten-free.
Can I use ghee instead of butter?
Yes, ghee works well and adds a nutty richness. Just note it’ll change the flavor slightly.
Final Thoughts
These Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are smoky, buttery, and bursting with flavor in every bite. They’re fast, easy, and guaranteed to be a hit whether you’re cooking for your family or firing up the grill for a party.
The zesty cowboy butter takes these skewers from simple to sensational—don’t be surprised if this becomes your new go-to summer dish!
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