These Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are a fun and tasty meal. The chicken is juicy and coated in a buttery herb sauce that makes every bite deliciously flavorful!
Grilling these skewers always brings people together. I love serving them with some fresh veggies or a side salad. It’s like a backyard party on a plate! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicy and tender. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but they may need careful cooking to avoid dryness.
Butter: Unsalted butter is used for a richer flavor. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a nice smoky flavor, but regular paprika or chili powder can work too. Adjust the amounts based on your spice preference!
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley brightens the dish. Cilantro can be a tasty swap if you enjoy its flavor. Fresh thyme or oregano also work well.
Honey/Brown Sugar: This ingredient adds a touch of sweetness. Feel free to omit it or use maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness.
How Do I Grill Chicken Skewers Without Drying Them Out?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but here are my tips to keep your skewers juicy:
- Choose thighs for their fat content, making them less likely to dry out compared to breasts.
- Marinate for at least 1 hour; overnight is even better for deeper flavor.
- Preheat your grill well to get nice sear marks and prevent sticking. Use medium-high heat (around 400°F).
- Aim for even pieces of chicken on skewers so they cook uniformly.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill. Leave space for heat to circulate around the skewers.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F.
By following these tips, you’ll get delicious, juicy Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers that everyone will enjoy!
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional for slight sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- Vegetable oil or cooking spray, for grilling
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soaked in water for 30 minutes prior)
Time Needed:
This recipe requires about 15-20 minutes of active preparation time, plus at least 1 hour for marinating the chicken. Plan on about 15-20 minutes for grilling. In total, you’ll need about 1 hour and 45 minutes, including prep and marination time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, honey (if using), apple cider vinegar, and chopped parsley. Stir until everything is well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss them around so that every piece is coated well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 3 hours for the best flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Lightly oil the grill grates or brush the chicken pieces with vegetable oil to help prevent sticking.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Take the marinated chicken pieces out of the fridge. Thread them onto your skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the hot grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, turning them carefully to get nice grill marks and ensure they cook evenly. The chicken is ready when its internal temperature reaches 165°F and the juices run clear.
6. Prepare Cowboy Butter (Optional Dipping Sauce):
If you’d like to make a dipping sauce, use some of the reserved marinade (ensure it hasn’t touched raw chicken) or melt more butter and mix in garlic, parsley, and a dash of your favorite seasoning.
7. Finish and Serve:
Once the skewers are off the grill, you can brush them with any leftover melted butter or your dipping sauce for extra flavor. Garnish with more chopped fresh parsley if desired.
8. Serve:
Arrange your delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers on a platter and serve with a bowl of Cowboy Butter dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy them with grilled veggies, rice, or a refreshing salad for a complete meal!
With these steps, you’re all set for a tasty and delightful meal! Enjoy the juicy, smoky, buttery goodness!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can certainly use chicken breasts! Just keep in mind that they tend to dry out more easily, so watch the cooking time carefully and remove them from the grill once they reach 165°F.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
The chicken can be marinated for at least 1 hour, but for best results, marinate it for 2-3 hours. Avoid marinating for longer than 6 hours to prevent the meat from becoming mushy.
Can I Make These Skewers in an Oven?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat until warmed through. They’re great in salads or wraps too!