If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s smoky, tangy, and just a little bit spicy, these Grilled Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers have your name written all over them. We’ve taken tender cubes of chicken breast, marinated them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and transformed them into juicy, grill-kissed bites. Then comes the real magic: a rich garlic-lemon butter sauce spiced with paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, fresh thyme, parsley, and chives. It’s the kind of sauce you’ll want to drizzle generously and maybe even drink straight from the bowl (not that I’ve ever done that!). Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard barbecue or just craving something that feels special on a busy weeknight, this recipe hits all the high notes.
I love how efficient these skewers are—25 minutes of prep, 15 minutes on the grill, and a quick 5-minute rest while you prepare sides or pour yourself a cold drink. The result? A main course that’s perfect for beginner cooks and grill masters alike. You don’t need complicated equipment or a pantry full of exotic spices, just everyday ingredients that come together in a bold, flavorful way. These skewers also make a star appetizer for game day, a vibrant lunch alongside a simple salad, or the centerpiece of a summer dinner party. Get ready to impress your family and friends (and maybe even your in-laws!) with this mouthwatering, easy-to-follow recipe.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN GRILLED COWBOY BUTTER CHICKEN SKEWERS
Before we dive into the grill, let’s chat about what makes these skewers so irresistible. Each ingredient plays a distinct role in building layers of flavor, from the juicy chicken cubes to the silky spiced butter that glazes every bite. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Tender, lean protein that soaks up marinades beautifully and grills to juicy perfection.
- Olive oil
Helps the seasonings stick to the chicken, creates those coveted grill marks, and prevents sticking.
- Salt and pepper
Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and the butter sauce.
- Skewers
Keep chicken pieces evenly spaced for consistent cooking, and make flipping a breeze.
- Unsalted butter
The luxurious base of the cowboy butter sauce, offering creamy richness without extra salt.
- Dijon mustard
Adds a tangy, slightly sharp note that cuts through the richness of the butter.
- Garlic
Delivers savory depth and aromatic warmth in every bite.
- Lemon juice
Brings bright acidity that balances the buttery sauce and lifts the overall flavor.
- Paprika
Contributes a gentle smoky sweetness and vibrant color to the butter sauce.
- Crushed red pepper flakes
Infuse a subtle kick of heat that keeps things exciting.
- Fresh thyme leaves
Provide earthy, herbal undertones that complement the chicken.
- Fresh parsley
Offers a burst of color and a clean, fresh finish.
- Fresh chives
Impart a mild onion-like flavor and garnish flair.
HOW TO MAKE GRILLED COWBOY BUTTER CHICKEN SKEWERS
Let’s break down the steps for crafting these juicy, flavor-packed skewers. You’ll get hands-on with marinating, skewering, sauce-making, and grilling in a way that’s fun and straightforward—perfect for home cooks at any skill level.
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat each piece of chicken evenly, ensuring every cube will grill up with balanced seasoning and moisture.
2. Thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a small gap between each cube for optimal heat circulation. This spacing helps the chicken cook more evenly and develop beautiful grill marks.
3. Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning and ensure they stay intact on the grill.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the cowboy butter sauce. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, thyme, parsley, and chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then stir until the sauce is silky and well combined.
5. Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill. Grill the skewers for about 5–7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and sports gorgeous charred lines.
6. Use a basting brush to slather the cowboy butter sauce generously over the skewers as they cook, turning occasionally. This not only amps up the flavor but also helps create a glossy, caramelized exterior.
7. Once the chicken is fully cooked and beautifully glazed, remove the skewers from the grill. Let them rest for a few minutes—this helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
8. Serve hot with extra cowboy butter sauce on the side for dipping, and watch everyone scoot their plates a little closer to the grill.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR GRILLED COWBOY BUTTER CHICKEN SKEWERS
These skewers shine on their own, but pairing them thoughtfully can turn your meal into a full-blown feast. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these serving ideas will elevate your presentation and highlight those rich, buttery flavors. Let’s take your plate from great to unforgettable with just a few simple additions and side dishes.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili-Lime Butter
The sweet crunch of corn fresh off the grill, slathered in spicy chili-lime butter, makes a vibrant side that echoes the zesty notes of the cowboy butter sauce.
- Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Fluffy couscous tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese brings a refreshing, cool contrast to the warm, savory skewers. Drizzle with a light lemon-oregano dressing for extra brightness.
- Charred Bell Peppers and Onions
Slide colorful bell peppers and red onions onto extra skewers and grill alongside the chicken. The natural sweetness from charring pairs beautifully with the buttery spices in the cowboy sauce.
- Creamy Coleslaw with Apple and Dill
A crisp, tangy coleslaw studded with thinly sliced apple and fresh dill adds texture and a subtle fruitiness that cuts through the richness of the chicken butter.
HOW TO STORE GRILLED COWBOY BUTTER CHICKEN SKEWERS
When you’ve got leftovers—or you’re planning ahead—proper storage ensures that these skewers taste just as incredible the next day (or week!). By following a few simple guidelines, you can preserve both texture and flavor, so reheating feels almost as good as grilling fresh. Let’s explore the best methods to keep your chicken skewers and cowboy butter sauce at their peak.
- Refrigerate in an Airtight Container
Allow the skewers to cool slightly, then transfer them to a shallow, airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Keeping air exposure to a minimum prevents dryness and flavor loss.
- Freeze for Longer Storage
For more extended shelf life, slide cooled skewers into a freezer-safe bag or wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Label with the date and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Separate the Sauce
Store leftover cowboy butter sauce in a small jar or container with a tight lid. The sauce can keep in the fridge for 5–7 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwaved until melted.
- Reheat Gently
To revive that just-grilled texture, reheat skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes or until warmed through. Brush with extra butter sauce halfway through to prevent drying out.
CONCLUSION
We’ve taken a delicious journey from marinade to mouthwatering bites, exploring how simple ingredients come together to create these unforgettable Grilled Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers. From the lean chicken cubes coated in olive oil, salt, and pepper to the luxurious concoction of melted butter, garlic, mustard, paprika, thyme, parsley, chives, and a hit of lemon juice, every step builds flavor and excitement. You’ve learned how to thread your skewers for even cooking, soak wooden sticks to avoid flare-ups, and baste generously for that signature glossy finish. We also covered creative side pairings, smart storage strategies, and reheating tips so no delicious morsel goes to waste. Feel free to print this article and tuck it into your recipe binder, or save it to your favorite digital app for easy access next time you’re firing up the grill.
Thank you for joining me on this flavorful escapade! I hope these skewers become a go-to recipe in your kitchen repertoire—perfect for backyard barbecues, casual weeknight dinners, or festive game-day spreads. Below, you’ll find a handy FAQ section to troubleshoot any questions or explore variations (yes, you can sneak veggies on the skewers!). If you try these Grilled Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers, I’d love to hear how they turned out. Leave a comment with your cooking tales, any twists you made, or questions you have. Your feedback and stories inspire new recipes and help fellow home cooks feel confident grilling up a storm. Happy grilling, friends!
Grilled Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
Description
Experience tender, smoky chicken cubes brushed with a rich garlic-lemon butter spiced with paprika, thyme, and chives. These grilled Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers deliver bold flavor in every juicy bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
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Thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, ensuring the pieces are securely stacked with a little space in between for even grilling.
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Preheat a grill over medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning.
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Meanwhile, prepare the cowboy butter sauce. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, thyme, parsley, and chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until well combined.
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Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill. Grill the skewers for about 5-7 minutes per side or until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks.
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Use a basting brush to apply the cowboy butter sauce generously over the chicken skewers while grilling, turning occasionally, to enhance the flavor.
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Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
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Serve hot with extra cowboy butter sauce on the side for dipping.
Note
- Make sure to not overcook the chicken, as it can become dry.
- The cowboy butter sauce can also be used as a tasty marinade before grilling.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or onions on the skewers for added flavor.
- If grilling isn't an option, these skewers can also be broiled in the oven.
- Serve alongside rice or salad for a complete meal.
