It is 6pm and you are tired. Dinner needs to happen fast. These Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites are your new secret weapon. They are juicy, zesty, and ready in 30 minutes.
You won’t believe how much flavor fits in one pan. This dish is perfect for a busy summer evening. It delivers big taste without much effort. Your family will be asking for seconds before you finish serving.
Why You’ll Love These Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites
This recipe is a total game-changer for your routine. It uses simple ingredients you likely already have. The bold sauce is creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy. It is a one-pan wonder that makes cleanup a breeze.
Beginners love how forgiving this method is. The chicken stays tender and picks up every drop of sauce. It is naturally low-carb and fits many dietary needs. You get a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.
Simple Cooking Method
First, you sear the chicken until it is golden brown. Then, you make the sauce in the same skillet. Scraping the pan adds incredible depth to the butter. It is a foolproof process for any home cook. You will feel so confident making this dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these items are pantry staples you already own.
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
Step-by-Step Directions
- Pat the chicken cubes dry with paper towels and season evenly with salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the chicken in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Sear the chicken for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a clean plate.
- Reduce heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Whisk in the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer the butter mixture for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the sauce is emulsified.
- Stir in the fresh parsley and chives, then return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
- Toss the chicken bites thoroughly to coat in the cowboy butter sauce and serve immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these golden bites over fluffy white rice. They also pair perfectly with a creamy cauliflower mash. Add some roasted green beans for a complete meal. This is a kid-approved dinner that feels special. Set the table and enjoy a stress-free evening.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to three days. Reheat them gently in a skillet over low heat. This prevents the chicken from becoming tough. You can even meal prep these for easy weekday lunches. They taste just as good the next day.
Tips for Best Results
- Always pat the chicken very dry before seasoning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure a perfect golden sear.
- Use fresh garlic instead of the jarred kind.
- Add a splash more lemon juice for extra brightness.
- Double the sauce if you want extra for dipping.
- Swap the parsley for cilantro for a different twist.
- Keep the heat at medium when melting the butter.
Easy Flavor Ideas
- Use chicken thighs for a juicier, richer flavor.
- Add extra red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Swap Dijon mustard for honey for a sweeter finish.
- Try lime juice instead of lemon for citrus variety.
Common Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can chop the chicken and herbs in advance. However, the sauce is best when made fresh. It only takes a few minutes to assemble.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The red pepper flakes add a very mild warmth. You can easily omit them for sensitive palates. The smoked paprika provides more color than heat.
I hope these savory chicken bites make your busy weeknights a little easier. There is nothing like a home-cooked meal that comes together this fast. Enjoy every buttery bite!
— Lidia
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Pat the chicken cubes dry with paper towels and season evenly with salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the chicken in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Sear the chicken for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a clean plate.
- Reduce heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Whisk in the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer the butter mixture for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the sauce is emulsified.
- Stir in the fresh parsley and chives, then return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
- Toss the chicken bites thoroughly to coat in the cowboy butter sauce and serve immediately.
