Introduction
Looking for a finger-licking good dish that guarantees to impress your friends and family? Look no further than these delightful Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites! Juicy pieces of chicken are enveloped in a rich, buttery sauce that bursts with flavor from garlic, Dijon mustard, and a hint of smoked paprika. Perfect as an appetizer or a main dish, these bites are sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, allowing for easy clean-up.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you want an extra kick!).
- Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the bowl and toss them gently until they are thoroughly coated in the delicious buttery mixture.
- Spread the chicken bites evenly across your prepared baking sheet, ensuring there’s enough space between each piece for even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and turns a lovely golden brown color, flipping them halfway through cooking for optimal crispiness.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the chicken bites with fresh parsley for a beautiful, vibrant garnish before serving.
Notes or Tips
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the buttery mixture for a couple of hours before baking. Just remember to keep it refrigerated! Additionally, feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper to manage the heat level to your preference. These bites pair wonderfully with a fresh side salad or some crunchy veggies!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe requires a simple baking technique that allows the chicken to cook evenly while absorbing all of that flavorful buttery mixture. Ensure your chicken pieces are uniform in size for consistent cooking. The secret to a perfect golden brown is all in the flipping — it allows both sides to crisp up beautifully!
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and remain juicy due to their higher fat content, making them an excellent alternative.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just let it come to room temperature before popping it in the oven.
What can I serve with these chicken bites? They are versatile! Try serving them with a creamy dipping sauce, over a bed of rice, or alongside roasted veggies for a complete meal.
Conclusion
These Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites are not just a dish; they’re an experience! With a burst of flavor in every bite, they’re sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy the delightful combination of buttery goodness and savory spices. Happy cooking!