These Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites are a fun and tasty dish! They feature juicy chicken bites coated in a zesty sauce made with butter, garlic, and spices. So good!
What’s not to love? They’re easy to make and perfect for sharing or snacking. I can’t resist popping these little bites while watching a movie—definitely a crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the base of this dish for their tender meat. You could also use chicken thighs for a juicier bite, or even swap them for tofu for a plant-based option.
Butter: I recommend using unsalted butter for more control over the saltiness. If you prefer a healthier alternative, olive oil or coconut oil can work just fine!
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a great depth of flavor. If it’s unavailable, regular paprika works but lacks the smoky note. For a spicy kick, adjust the cayenne level based on your heat preference.
Fresh Parsley: This adds a burst of freshness at the end. For a different flavor, try cilantro or green onions. They’ll change the taste but still add a nice touch!
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken bites perfectly ensures they are juicy and flavorful. Here are some tips to nail this step:
- Use medium-high heat to get a good sear. This helps lock in juices.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; give the chicken enough space to cook evenly.
- Cook until they are golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy!
By following these steps, you’ll have delicious chicken bites every time! Just remember to keep an eye on them as cooking times can vary.
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of half a lemon (optional, for a touch of acidity)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking time, making the total time about 20 minutes. You’ll have these tasty Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, mix together smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Toss the bite-sized chicken pieces in this spice mixture until they are well-coated and deliciously seasoned.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your seasoned chicken bites. Cook them, stirring occasionally, for about 6-8 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
3. Add Butter and Garlic:
Lower the heat to medium. Push the cooked chicken bites to one side of the skillet. In the empty side, add the butter and the minced garlic. Let the butter melt and the garlic cook for about 1-2 minutes, just until it’s fragrant. Then, stir everything together to coat the chicken well with the buttery goodness.
4. Finish and Serve:
If you like a bit of acidity, squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the chicken bites. Carefully transfer everything to a serving dish, then sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh finish. Serve these Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites warm, either on their own or with your favorite dipping sauces!
Enjoy your flavorful Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites—perfect for any get-together or casual meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe, you can also use chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a couple of extra minutes to cook through.
Can I Make These in The Oven Instead?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), toss the seasoned chicken bites in a little olive oil, and spread them on a baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until cooked through. Finish by tossing them in the butter and garlic mixture after baking.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, ensuring they are heated through without drying out.
What Other Dipping Sauces Pair Well with These Bites?
These chicken bites pair nicely with a variety of dips! Try ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo for a delicious contrast to the flavorful chicken.
