These Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites are tender pieces of chicken tossed in a buttery, flavorful sauce with a kick of garlic and herbs! They’re a great mix of tasty and easy!
Perfect for snacking or as a game day treat, these bites are just plain fun to eat. Who wouldn’t love chicken that’s swimming in buttery goodness? Yum! 😋
I love making them for parties, as they disappear fast! Just pop them in the oven, and you’ve got a delicious treat that everyone will enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay juicy and flavorful. But if you prefer chicken breast, that’s great too! You can also substitute tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option; just adjust the cooking time.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the seasoning. However, if you’re avoiding dairy, try using ghee or a plant-based butter. Both work well and add that rich flavor!
Spices: Smoked paprika brings a wonderful depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika will do, but you might miss that smoky kick. You can also play around with different herbs—oregano or Italian seasoning can be nice substitutes for thyme.
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional for heat. I usually skip it if I’m serving kids or guests who may not enjoy spicy food. If you still want some heat, consider adding a little hot sauce instead.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Chicken Bites Without Drying Them Out?
Getting the perfect golden brown chicken without drying it out can be tricky. Here’s a simple way to ensure your chicken stays juicy:
- First, ensure your chicken pieces are cut into even sizes to cook uniformly.
- Cook the chicken in batches if your skillet is too small. This prevents overcrowding, which can steam the chicken instead of searing it.
- Use medium-high heat for that perfect sear while keeping an eye on the time—4-5 minutes per side should give you that nice golden color.
- Always let the chicken rest after cooking. This locks in the juices, making your bites tender and flavorful!
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken Bites:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- For the Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional Sides:
- Mashed potatoes or your choice of side
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 15 minutes for cooking, totaling around 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick dinner or a fun appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Seasoning:
In a medium bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well combined to create a flavorful spice mix.
2. Coat the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized pieces of chicken to the bowl with the spice mix. Toss the chicken pieces well until they are evenly coated with the seasoning. This will ensure every bite is bursting with flavor!
3. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken bites in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook them in batches to get a nice golden brown on all sides. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until they are golden and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Make the Butter Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Allow the butter to melt and start to brown slightly, scraping up any tasty bits left in the pan from the chicken. This will add great flavor to the sauce!
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet. Toss the chicken well in the buttery sauce to ensure every piece is coated. Cook together for another 1-2 minutes, letting the flavors meld nicely.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Transfer the Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites to a serving dish and garnish generously with fresh parsley. Serve hot, ideally with creamy mashed potatoes or your favorite side to soak up all that delicious buttery sauce. Enjoy your meal!
These flavorful, buttery, and smoky chicken bites are sure to be a hit at your next dinner or gathering!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thaw it completely first. The best way to thaw chicken is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re in a hurry, place the sealed chicken in a bowl of cold water for about an hour until it’s thawed.
How Can I Store Leftover Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of butter or chicken broth to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you like more heat, consider increasing the amount of cayenne pepper or adding a dash of your favorite hot sauce. You could also serve with extra hot sauce on the side for those who want an extra kick!
What Can I Serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites?
This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the buttery sauce. You can also serve it with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal!
