These Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are a fun and tasty treat! Juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a buttery, zesty sauce and grilled to perfection. Perfect for summer barbecues!
Who wouldn’t love a little cowboy twist to their chicken? Trust me, you’ll be licking your fingers after these skewers are gone! I usually serve them with a side of veggies for a yummy meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless skinless chicken thighs are ideal for juicy skewers, but chicken breasts work if you prefer a leaner option. If you’re looking for a substitution, tofu or tempeh can also be marinated and grilled for a plant-based option.
Butter: Unsalted butter brings rich flavor. If you’re watching your dairy intake, opt for plant-based butter or olive oil for a lighter version. Both will still keep your skewers tasty.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds great flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Just remember to adjust the amount; start with about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for this recipe.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a lovely depth to the dish. If you want a bit more heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or using chipotle chili powder instead. Always taste and adjust according to your spice preference!
How Do You Get Perfectly Grilled Chicken Skewers?
The key to grilling chicken skewers is achieving a nice char while keeping the inside juicy. Here are some tips to help you out:
- Consistent pieces: Cut your chicken into uniform pieces so they cook evenly. Aim for 1 1/2-inch cubes.
- Marination time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but longer is even better! It allows the spices to really soak in.
- Preheat your grill: Make sure your grill is hot before you start cooking. Medium-high heat is best for a good sear and to prevent sticking.
- Don’t rush: Rotate the skewers carefully, allowing each side to grill for about 4-5 minutes. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
＜li>Resting time: Let your skewers sit for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute for even juiciness.
These simple techniques will give you delicious, juicy chicken skewers every time. Happy grilling!
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Chicken: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
- Butter Sauce: 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lime juice, freshly squeezed
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20-30 minutes of prep time, plus at least 1 hour for marinating (2-3 hours is even better). Once marinated, grilling takes about 10-15 minutes. Overall, you can expect to spend around 1.5 to 2 hours before you’re ready to dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Whisk everything together until well mixed. This mixture is where all the flavor comes from!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken to the marinade. Toss the chicken pieces to ensure they’re all coated in the delicious sauce. Once coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to sink in. For best results, let it marinate for 2-3 hours.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to grill, heat your grill to medium-high (around 400°F/200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to keep the skewers from sticking, which will make both cooking and cleanup easier!
4. Assemble Skewers:
Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge and thread the cubes onto your skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking and perfect char. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember they should be soaked in water beforehand to help prevent burning on the grill.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the chicken skewers on the hot grill. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes per side, turning until the chicken is cooked thoroughly, and has a nice char on the edges. You can check if it’s done by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Prepare Extra Butter Sauce:
If you have leftover marinade, reserve it and gently heat it in a small saucepan (but do not boil). This will be the perfect dipping sauce to elevate your skewers!
7. Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the skewers to a serving platter. Drizzle them with some of that delicious warmed butter sauce and sprinkle extra chopped parsley on top for garnish. Serve with lime wedges on the side for that fresh squeeze of flavor just before eating!
These Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are delicious on their own or paired with grilled veggies, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad for a genuine cowboy-style feast. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken thighs are great for their juiciness, you can also use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. Just keep in mind that breasts might dry out a bit more, so be careful not to overcook them.
What’s the Best Way to Soak Wooden Skewers?
To prevent wooden skewers from burning on the grill, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before using them. This helps create a barrier to heat and keeps your skewers intact while grilling.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes! Marinating the chicken overnight can enhance the flavor even more. Just make sure to cover it well in the fridge to keep everything fresh. Just remember to not exceed 24 hours as the chicken can start to become mushy.
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to keep the chicken moist. Enjoy them as a tasty snack or in a wrap the next day!
