My grandma, bless her heart, always knew how to make a weeknight dinner feel like a celebration. One of my fondest memories is of her whipping up a quick and easy chicken dish, always adding her own special touch. It was never fancy, but it was always bursting with flavor and made with so much love.
I remember the aroma of garlic and spices filling the kitchen as she stirred the sauce. We’d gather around the table, eager to dig in. It’s these simple moments, filled with delicious food and shared laughter, that I cherish the most. Thinking of her and those meals inspired me to create my own version of a quick chicken dish: Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites.
It’s a recipe that captures that same comforting feeling, with a bold, flavorful twist. This is a dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Speaking of satisfying, have you ever tried creamy Hawaiian fruit salad recipe? The sweetness of the fruit is a perfect counterpoint to the savory butter chicken bites.
Why you’ll love this Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites
- These cowboy butter chicken bites are incredibly juicy and tender, thanks to the perfectly cooked chicken and flavorful sauce.
- The cowboy butter sauce is a flavor explosion, combining savory, spicy, and tangy notes that will tantalize your taste buds.
- This recipe is quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
- You can easily customize the spice level of the cowboy butter sauce to suit your preferences, from mild to fiery.
- These chicken bites are versatile and can be served as an appetizer, a main course over rice, or even in tacos or wraps.
- The grated parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami kick that perfectly complements the other flavors of the dish, making these Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites a winner.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Cooked rice, for serving (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Directions
Step 1
Cowboy butter chicken bites makes every moment feel satisfying. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2
In a large bowl, toss the chicken cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Step 3
Spread the chicken cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5
While the chicken is baking, prepare the cowboy butter sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
Step 6
Stir in the parsley, thyme, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 7
Remove the baked chicken from the oven and transfer it to a clean bowl.
Step 8
Pour the cowboy butter sauce over the chicken bites and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 9
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Excellent over rice.
Variations, pairings, and serving ideas
Variations
Want to add even more flavor to your Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites? Consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the cowboy butter for an extra layer of umami. A squeeze of lime juice instead of lemon juice will also provide a zesty twist. You could even stir in a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness to balance the spice.
If you prefer a creamier sauce, whisk in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end. For a smoky flavor, use smoked salt instead of regular salt when seasoning the chicken. These variations will allow you to customize the recipe to your exact liking.
You can also try different herbs in the cowboy butter sauce. Rosemary, oregano, or even a pinch of dried dill can add a unique touch. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavor profile!
Pairings
These cowboy butter chicken bites are fantastic served over a bed of fluffy rice. The rice soaks up all the delicious sauce, making for a complete and satisfying meal. Quinoa or couscous are also great alternatives to rice.
For a lighter option, serve them alongside a fresh green salad. A simple salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken. Roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts are also excellent choices.
If you’re looking for a heartier side dish, consider mashed potatoes or sweet potato fries. The creamy texture of the mashed potatoes or the sweetness of the fries complements the spicy and savory flavors of the chicken perfectly. Looking for something else delicious? Check out this creamy Hawaiian fruit salad recipe at Cook Reel for a tropical twist.
Serving ideas
For a casual appetizer, serve the cowboy butter chicken bites on a platter with toothpicks. This makes it easy for guests to grab a bite and mingle. Garnish the platter with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
If you’re serving them as a main course, consider arranging the chicken bites artfully over rice or mashed potatoes. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the top and garnish with a sprig of thyme or rosemary. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese never hurts either!
For a fun and interactive meal, serve the cowboy butter chicken bites in lettuce wraps. This is a great way to keep things light and healthy. Provide a variety of toppings, such as shredded carrots, chopped peanuts, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo for an extra kick. You can even serve the chicken bites as a filling for tacos or sliders.
Storage and make-ahead tips
Storage
Leftover cowboy butter chicken bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool them completely before storing them to prevent bacterial growth. Reheating them properly will ensure they taste just as delicious as the first time.
To reheat, you can gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between, to prevent them from drying out. Adding a splash of broth or water during reheating can help retain moisture.
While freezing is possible, it’s best to consume the chicken bites fresh for optimal quality. However, if you must freeze them, store them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different after freezing and thawing.
Make-ahead
You can easily prepare the cowboy butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will save you time on busy weeknights. Simply reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat before tossing it with the cooked chicken.
You can also cut the chicken into cubes and marinate it in the olive oil, salt, and pepper mixture a few hours in advance. This will allow the flavors to meld together and make the chicken even more tender. Store the marinated chicken in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
For a truly quick and easy meal, you can even cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Then, when you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the chicken and toss it with the prepared cowboy butter sauce. This is a great option for meal prepping or when you’re short on time.
Common mistakes when making Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites
- Overcooking the chicken: This can result in dry, tough chicken bites. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and avoid overbaking.
- Burning the garlic: Garlic burns easily, so be sure to cook it over medium heat and stir it frequently. If the garlic starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat or remove the pan from the heat temporarily.
- Not adjusting the spice level: The amount of red pepper flakes in the cowboy butter sauce can be adjusted to suit your preferences. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
- Skipping the lemon juice: The lemon juice adds a bright, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the butter and spices. Don’t skip it!
- Not coating the chicken evenly: Make sure to toss the chicken bites thoroughly with the cowboy butter sauce to ensure they are evenly coated. This will ensure that every bite is bursting with flavor.
Final notes
Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites are a delightful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few easy steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and pairings to find your perfect combination. The possibilities are endless! And remember, cooking should be fun and enjoyable.
So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to create a delicious and memorable meal. I hope you enjoy these cowboy butter chicken bites as much as my family and I do!
Loved this Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites? Try these next
- Creamy Hawaiian Fruit Salad Recipe
- Brownie Refrigerator Cake Recipe
- Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken
- Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Scampi
- Easy Weeknight Pasta Primavera
Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites
These juicy Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites are bursting with flavor! Tender chicken pieces are coated in a rich, savory, and slightly spicy cowboy butter sauce, making them the perfect appetizer or main course.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Cooked rice, for serving (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the chicken cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the cowboy butter sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Stir in the parsley, thyme, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the baked chicken from the oven and transfer it to a clean bowl.
- Pour the cowboy butter sauce over the chicken bites and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Excellent over rice.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 180mg