These cowboy butter chicken skewers are full of flavor and super easy to make! Juicy pieces of chicken marinated in a tasty buttery mix, then grilled to perfection.
They’re perfect for BBQs or a quick dinner. I love serving them with a fresh salad, and trust me, you’ll be going back for more! Just beware of the buttery goodness—it might make you want to dance! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use either chicken breasts or thighs. I prefer thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work well too. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using turkey breast!
Unsalted Butter: This is where the rich flavor comes from. If you need a healthier option, consider using olive oil or a vegan butter substitute.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use pre-minced garlic from a jar in a pinch. Just adjust to taste.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a nice depth; however, if you don’t have it, regular paprika works fine. If you enjoy heat, go for a bit more chili powder or even cayenne pepper!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Skewers Stay Juicy?
To keep your chicken skewers moist, the key is the marination process. Allow the chicken to soak up all the flavors from the butter and spices. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix your marinade well to ensure all flavors blend.
- Make sure the chicken is in the marinade for at least 30 minutes; longer is better for flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers. This helps in getting even cooking and avoids steaming.
Another tip is to check the chicken for doneness and avoid overcooking, as this can make it dry. Aim for 165°F for perfectly juicy chicken!
Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak them in water for 30 minutes before use)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating (or up to 2 hours for best flavor). Once everything is set, grilling will take around 10-12 minutes. So in total, expect about 45 minutes to an hour to enjoy these delicious skewers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This ensures your skewers will cook evenly and get those nice grill marks!
2. Mix the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, smoked paprika, dried oregano, onion powder, chili powder (if you want some spice), salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well blended.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken pieces into the marinade. Toss them around to coat every piece evenly. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 20-30 minutes at room temperature. For even more flavor, pop it into the fridge for up to 2 hours!
4. Assemble the Skewers:
After marinating, take the chicken and thread the pieces onto the skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece so they cook well.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on your hot grill or grill pan. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, turning gently, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
6. Add Extra Flavor:
Once the skewers are grilled, take them off the heat and transfer to a serving plate. If you have any leftover butter marinade, drizzle it over the skewers for a wonderful flavor boost!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the skewers for a pop of color and freshness. Serve them immediately with your choice of delicious sides like grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or fluffy rice.
Enjoy your juicy, buttery, flavorful cowboy butter chicken skewers! They’re sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Easy Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Other Proteins in This Recipe?
Absolutely! This marinade works great with shrimp, pork, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly—shrimp will cook much faster, while pork may take a bit longer.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using it to ensure the flavors are well combined!
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the microwave or on the grill for a few minutes to warm them up before serving again.
What Can I Serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers?
These skewers pair excellently with a variety of sides! Try serving them with fresh salads, grilled vegetables, rice, or even a baked potato for a hearty meal.
