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introduction

Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites are small pieces of chicken tossed in a bright, herby butter sauce. They cook fast and taste fresh. This dish works as an easy weeknight meal or a simple party snack. If you like a pasta twist, try the easy cowboy butter chicken linguine for a full dinner.

why make this recipe

You will like this recipe because it is quick, full of flavor, and uses simple ingredients. The lemon and herbs keep the chicken bright. Butter and olive oil give a rich, tasty sauce. The steps are easy and most cooks can follow them.

how to make Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites

Work step by step and keep the flavors simple. Sear the chicken first to get a brown crust, then finish in the oven so the meat stays juicy. For another quick idea that pairs well, see the irresistibly easy cowboy butter chicken linguine recipe.

Ingredients :

1 1/2 lbs Chicken breasts, boneless skinless
4 Garlic cloves
1 tsp Lemon, zest
1 Lemon, wedges
1 tbsp Parsley, fresh
1 tsp Thyme, fresh
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp Lemon juice, fresh
1 tsp Paprika, smoked
1 tsp Red pepper flakes
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 tbsp Olive oil
6 tbsp Butter, unsalted

Directions :

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, mix together the garlic, lemon zest, parsley, thyme, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then coat them with the prepared mixture.
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a baking sheet.
Melt the unsalted butter and pour it over the chicken.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Serve the chicken bites with lemon wedges.

how to serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites

Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side. These bites go well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. You can also serve them with crusty bread to soak up the butter sauce.

how to store Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites

Let the chicken cool to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through, or heat in a skillet over low heat.

tips to make Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites

Pat the chicken dry before seasoning so it browns well.
Do not overcrowd the pan when searing; leave space so the pieces brown.
Use fresh lemon and herbs for the best flavor.
If you like more heat, add more red pepper flakes.
Check the chicken with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C).

variation (if any)

Add smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne for more smokiness and heat.
Swap thyme for rosemary for a different herb note.
Use chicken thighs for a juicier bite.
Make a creamy dip by mixing sour cream with a little Dijon and lemon juice.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Thaw the chicken fully before cooking. Pat dry and follow the same steps.

Q: Can I make this without butter?
A: Yes. Use extra olive oil or a butter substitute, but the flavor will change.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is done?
A: The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Cut into the thickest piece to check that it is no longer pink.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes. Use a larger pan or sear in batches to avoid crowding.

Conclusion

This simple recipe gives bright, buttery chicken bites that cook fast and please many tastes. For another take with similar flavors, see the Cowboy Chicken Bites – I Am Homesteader. If you want a version with a creamy sauce, check out Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites with Cajun Creamy Dipping Sauce.