Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites are fun little nuggets packed with flavor! They’re made with juicy chicken pieces coated in a buttery, spicy sauce that makes them hard to resist.
These bites are perfect for parties or snack time, and trust me, they disappear fast! I love serving them with toothpicks for easy munching—just be ready for your friends to ask for more! 🤠
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like to use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy texture. However, breasts work too! If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can always use turkey for a leaner alternative.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a nice depth of flavor. If you’re out, regular paprika is fine, just a little less smoky. Don’t skip the garlic powder; it really enhances the taste!
Oil: Olive oil is my go-to for frying, but vegetable oil works too! If you’re after something lighter, use an air fryer with a light cooking spray for a healthier version of these bites.
Butter: I use unsalted butter for better control over salt. You can substitute with ghee if you’re dairy-free, which also adds a nice nuttiness.
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken properly is key to getting those Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites just right. Here’s how:
- Cut chicken into equal bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Preheat your skillet so the chicken gets that nice golden crust quickly. Don’t crowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should be 165°F (75°C) internally.
- Let the chicken rest briefly after cooking so juices redistribute, keeping them moist.
How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Cowboy Butter Sauce:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Pinch of salt and pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, making a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy). Toss the chicken pieces in the spice mixture until they’re evenly coated. This will give your chicken a delicious flavor!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer—don’t stack them up! Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. After they’re done, take the chicken out and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Cowboy Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the butter. Let it melt and start to bubble a little. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring often to keep it from burning—garlic burns quickly!
4. Combine the Sauces:
Stir in the lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 30 seconds to mix everything nicely.
5. Toss in the Chicken:
Now, add the cooked chicken bites back into the skillet. Toss them in the buttery sauce to make sure every piece is good and coated. It’s going to smell amazing!
6. Serve it Up:
Take the skillet off the heat and sprinkle fresh parsley over the chicken bites. Transfer everything into a serving dish, pouring any leftover buttery sauce over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy!
7. Extra Touches:
If you’d like, you can garnish with extra parsley and serve with toothpicks for a fun, easy-to-eat snack. Everyone will love these buttery bites!
Enjoy your flavorful, juicy Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them a great choice for this recipe. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for easy cooking!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little butter to bring back the sauce’s deliciousness!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the Cowboy Butter Sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop before adding the cooked chicken bites.
What Can I Serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites?
These bites pair wonderfully with toothpicks for easy snacking! You can also serve them with rice, pasta, or a side of vegetables for a fuller meal. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces too!
