Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a flavor-packed treat with these Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites! Perfectly bite-sized and bursting with a rich, buttery flavor, these chicken morsels are a delightful way to elevate your weeknight dinner or impress your guests at your next gathering. The blend of fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and a hint of paprika creates a deliciously irresistible dish that will have everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Skewers (if grilling)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare the grill if you’re using skewers.
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, chives, dill, paprika, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well blended and fragrant.
- Toss the chicken pieces in half of this flavorful cowboy butter mixture until they are fully coated.
- If you’re grilling, thread the chicken onto the skewers now for easy handling.
- Arrange the chicken bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or place them directly on the grill.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a charming golden brown color, turning halfway through if baking.
- If grilling, cook for approximately 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and has nice grill marks.
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven or grill and generously brush with the remaining cowboy butter mixture before serving.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra kick of flavor, marinate the chicken pieces in the cowboy butter mixture for an hour before cooking.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning.
- Feel free to swap out the herbs based on your preference — basil or cilantro can add a fresh twist!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe lends itself well to both baking and grilling, making it versatile for any season. Baking allows for an easy, fuss-free clean-up, while grilling imparts a wonderful smoky flavor that complements the buttery chicken beautifully. Choose the cooking method that suits your occasion best!
FAQ
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the cowboy butter and marinate the chicken in advance. Just store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them before cooking.
- What can I serve with these chicken bites? They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or even a side of rice for a complete meal.
Conclusion
These Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, with their succulent, tender chicken enveloped in a rich, buttery goodness. Whether you’re enjoying them for a casual family dinner or serving them as delightful appetizers at your next gathering, your taste buds are in for a treat. So grab your ingredients, and let the cooking adventure begin!