These Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites are juicy and packed with flavor! Coated in a tasty butter sauce with garlic and spices, they are perfect for a snack or party treat.
Trust me, you’ll want to make extra because these bites disappear fast! I love serving them with toothpicks for easy munching—so perfect for sharing or just for me! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you prefer, chicken thighs can be used for more juiciness.
Paprika: I recommend smoked paprika for an added depth of flavor. If you can’t find it, regular paprika or even chili powder can work in a pinch.
Butter: Unsalted butter is the go-to for controlling salt levels, but you can use ghee or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but jarred minced garlic can save time. Just adjust the amount to taste since jarred can be stronger.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have any, try using lime juice as a substitute or a small splash of vinegar.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Bites Are Juicy and Tender?
The key to juicy chicken bites lies in not overcooking them. Here’s how to keep them tender:
- Cut the chicken into consistent, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Cook in batches rather than overcrowding the skillet to avoid steaming.
- Use a meat thermometer if unsure—cooking to an internal temperature of 165°F ensures they’re cooked through but still juicy.
- Letting the chicken sit a few minutes after cooking lets the juices redistribute.
By focusing on these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken bites every time!
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tsp paprika (preferably smoked paprika)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Butter Sauce:
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar (to balance flavors)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus some extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick dish that’s full of flavor, perfect for dinner or an appetizer when you have guests. Just a bit of mixing and frying, and you’ll be ready to dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a large bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. This spice mix is what gives your chicken bites that amazing flavor!
2. Coat the Chicken Bites:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces into the bowl with the spice mix. Toss them around until each piece is well coated. This is where the fun begins—make sure they are tasty all over!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken bites in a single layer. If your skillet isn’t big enough, cook them in batches so they get that nice, golden-brown color! Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and delicious. When done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Allow it to melt completely. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
5. Create the Flavorful Sauce:
Stir in the fresh lemon juice and honey (or brown sugar). Mix it all together to make a luscious sauce that’ll coat the chicken bites beautifully.
6. Toss the Chicken in the Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken bites back into the skillet and gently toss them in the butter sauce until they are fully coated. This step ensures each bite has that heavenly flavor!
7. Finish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat, and sprinkle the chopped parsley over the chicken bites. Give them another gentle toss to mix it in. Serve them warm on a platter, garnished with extra parsley if you like. These bites are perfect with dipping sauces like ranch or barbecue for added fun!
Now, enjoy your savory and flavorful Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites with friends and family!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry before seasoning and cooking to achieve a nice sear.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to turn up the heat, add more cayenne pepper or include minced jalapeños to the spice mix. You can also serve the chicken bites with a spicy dipping sauce, like sriracha or a hot sauce of your choice!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken bites ahead of time. Cook them until golden, then let them cool and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove with a little butter for the best flavor and texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of butter to keep them moist.
