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Golden brown chicken bites tossed in a vibrant garlic and herb butter sauce in a cast iron skillet.
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Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 480kcal

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.