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This homemade cowboy butter chicken skewers recipe transforms ordinary chicken into a flavor-packed meal that's impressive enough for guests yet simple enough for weeknight dinners. The tender chicken cubes perfectly soak up the rich, herbaceous cowboy butter for an unforgettable combination that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
I first made these skewers for a backyard gathering last summer, and they disappeared within minutes. Now they've become my signature dish whenever friends come over, with several asking for the recipe before they even leave.
Ingredients
- Wooden skewers soaking them prevents burning and splitting during cooking
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts provides the perfect canvas for the flavorful butter
- Extra virgin olive oil helps the seasonings adhere and promotes browning
- Kosher salt enhances the natural flavor of the chicken without tasting overly salty
- Black pepper adds a subtle heat that balances the rich butter
- Cowboy butter the star ingredient creating a luxurious sauce with herbs and spices
- Fresh parsley brightens the final dish visually and adds a fresh herbal note
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the Chicken
- Add cubed chicken, olive oil, salt, and pepper to a large bowl and toss until each piece is evenly coated. This simple seasoning prepares the chicken to absorb the cowboy butter flavors later.
- Skewer the Chicken
- Thread 4 to 5 chicken cubes onto each soaked wooden skewer, leaving small gaps between pieces. These spaces allow heat to circulate for even cooking and create more surface area for the butter to cling to.
- Cook the Chicken
- Air fry the skewers at 400°F for 11 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. The air fryer creates a slightly crisp exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
- Apply the Cowboy Butter
- Remove the cooked skewers and immediately drizzle or brush with melted cowboy butter while still hot. This allows the butter to melt into every nook and cranny of the chicken for maximum flavor impact.
- Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the skewers for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Arrange on a serving platter for a beautiful presentation that will impress your guests.
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My husband claims the secret to these skewers is using the highest quality butter you can find. I once splurged on a European cultured butter for a special occasion, and the depth of flavor was so remarkable that I now consider it worth the extra cost for special gatherings.
Making Perfect Cowboy Butter
The heart of this recipe is the cowboy butter itself. For the best flavor, use room temperature butter and thoroughly mix in fresh herbs rather than dried ones. Let the compound butter rest for at least an hour before using to allow the flavors to meld together. I find that making it the night before produces the most aromatic and flavorful results. For a spicier version, add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Storage and Meal Prep
These chicken skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For meal prep, you can marinate the chicken cubes for up to 24 hours before cooking, which intensifies the flavor and saves time when you're ready to cook. The cowboy butter can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator, or frozen for up to 3 months in an ice cube tray for perfectly portioned amounts whenever needed.
Serving Suggestions
These skewers pair beautifully with grilled vegetables, particularly corn on the cob which can be brushed with the same cowboy butter. For a complete meal, serve alongside a simple green salad and crusty bread to soak up any extra butter. They also make excellent sandwiches the next day if you have leftovers simply remove the chicken from the skewers and place in a toasted bun with some lettuce and tomato.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your chicken is browning too quickly before cooking through, lower the temperature and extend the cooking time slightly. Make sure all chicken pieces are relatively uniform in size to ensure even cooking. If cooking in batches, keep the first batch warm in a low oven while finishing the rest. For the juiciest results, avoid overcooking the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes after cooking before adding the butter.
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Recipe Q&A
- → How long should I marinate the shrimp?
Marinate the shrimp for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate. Avoid exceeding 2 hours to maintain optimal texture and taste.
- → Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Be sure to thaw and pat them dry before marinating for the best results.
- → What type of grill works best?
You can use an outdoor grill or a stovetop grill pan. Both work well, but ensure the surface is preheated and lightly greased to prevent sticking.
- → Can I make this dish without skewers?
Absolutely! You can cook the shrimp directly on the grill or in a grill pan; just be careful to turn them individually to ensure even cooking.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Serve the shrimp with a simple green salad, rice, or crusty bread to complete the meal.