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
