These Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are a fun and tasty way to enjoy grilled chicken! Juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a flavorful butter sauce that makes every bite extra special.
Seriously, who doesn’t love a good skewer? They’re perfect for sharing or just eating right off the stick! I like to serve them with fresh veggies on the side for a colorful meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use both chicken thighs and breasts, but I think thighs give a juicier bite. If you’re looking for a leaner option, breasts work well too. You can even substitute with shrimp or firm tofu for a different twist!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best so you can control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using olive oil or a vegan butter substitute. They will add their unique flavor too.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a strong, aromatic flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder will work, just use about 1 teaspoon, but fresh is always best. If you’re not a fan of garlic, feel free to reduce the amount.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds that lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even liquid smoke can do the trick. Adjust the chili powder and cayenne for your heat tolerance; omit for a milder flavor.
Fresh Herbs: I love using parsley or cilantro, but you could use basil or chives if that’s what you have. They brighten up the whole dish, so don’t skip on it!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken Skewers?
The key to juicy chicken skewers is in the marinating process. Letting the chicken soak up those flavorful ingredients allows it to become tender and adds a lovely taste. Here are my tips:
- Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least an hour—more time is even better!
- When skewering, make sure to leave a little space between the pieces. This helps them cook evenly.
- Your grill should be hot to give the right char. If cooking indoors, a grill pan works nicely too.
- Keep an eye on them while grilling! Cooking time can vary based on the size of your chicken cubes and the heat of your grill.
Let your skewers rest for a couple of minutes after cooking before serving. This helps redistribute the juices, making every bite more flavorful!
Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
For Garnishing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, finely chopped
- Thinly sliced red onion, for garnish
- Fresh herb sprigs, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus a marinating time of at least 1 hour (or up to 4 hours for better flavor). Grilling will take approximately 10-15 minutes. So, in total, you’re looking at around 1-4 hours and 30 minutes, depending on your marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, cayenne pepper (if you want some heat), lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s nicely blended—this is where the magic begins!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken to the bowl. Toss everything together well to coat the chicken evenly in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour; for the best flavor, aim for 3-4 hours if you can!
3. Preheat for Grilling:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This will help ensure those delicious grill marks and a nice char on your chicken!
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Take the marinated chicken out of the refrigerator. Thread the chicken pieces onto your skewers, leaving a little space in between each piece. This helps them cook evenly and get that lovely grilled flavor.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill. Grill each side for about 4-5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F) and has a beautiful char. You can brush them with extra melted butter or reserved marinade while they’re grilling to keep them moist—yum!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, carefully take the chicken skewers off the grill. Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro over the top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve them immediately on a platter.
7. Enjoy with Dipping Sauce:
Pair your skewers with a side of dipping sauce made from the leftover marinade (make sure to boil it first for safety!) or your favorite barbecue sauce. Don’t forget to add sliced red onions and fresh herbs for garnish. Dig in and enjoy your juicy, flavorful Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but they may be a bit drier than thighs. Be careful not to overcook them; they only need about 4-5 minutes per side on the grill!
What Can I Use Instead of Unsalted Butter?
If you need a substitute, olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative works great. Olive oil will add its own flavor, but it’s an excellent option for a lighter marinated chicken.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the grill or in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat, as that can dry them out.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the chicken to the marinade right before grilling for the best flavor.