Pin it
This juicy grilled cowboy butter chicken skewer recipe transforms ordinary chicken thighs into flavor-packed morsels that disappear within minutes at any gathering. The magical combination of smoky grilled chicken and rich, herb-infused butter creates an irresistible dish that looks as impressive as it tastes.
I first made these skewers for an impromptu backyard barbecue when friends dropped by unexpectedly. The dish was such a hit that it has become my signature recipe everyone requests when grilling season arrives.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs: offer more flavor and moisture than breast meat and stay juicier on the grill
- Olive oil: helps the spices adhere to the chicken and prevents sticking
- Paprika: adds beautiful color and smoky flavor to complement the grill char
- Garlic powder: provides convenience while still delivering robust flavor
- Onion powder: adds depth without the texture of fresh onions
- Unsalted butter: allows you to control the salt level in your final sauce
- Fresh garlic cloves: deliver bright aromatic punch that powder cannot match
- Dijon mustard: contributes tanginess and helps emulsify the butter sauce
- Lemon juice: brightens the richness of the butter and tenderizes the meat
- Fresh parsley: adds color and herbaceous notes that dried herbs cannot provide
- Red pepper flakes: contribute customizable heat that builds slowly
- Smoked paprika: in the butter sauce reinforces the grilled flavor profile
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Combine chicken pieces with olive oil and seasonings in a large bowl, tossing thoroughly to coat each piece evenly. The oil helps the spices adhere while beginning to tenderize the meat. Allow chicken to rest at room temperature for at least 15 minutes while you prepare other components.
- Prepare the Cowboy Butter Sauce:
- Melt butter until just liquid but not hot, then stir in garlic, Dijon, lemon juice, herbs and spices. The warm butter will gently bloom the spices and extract flavor from the garlic without burning it. Reserve about one third of this mixture for serving.
- Skewer the Chicken:
- Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving small spaces between each piece to ensure even cooking. If using wooden skewers, ensure they have been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Master the Grilling:
- Preheat your grill to medium high heat around 400°F. Place skewers on clean, oiled grates and let cook undisturbed for 5 minutes to develop grill marks. Flip once and begin basting with cowboy butter, allowing the butter to bubble and caramelize on the surface.
- Perfect the Basting Technique:
- Apply cowboy butter liberally during the final cooking minutes, turning occasionally to build layers of flavor. The butter will create flare ups that char the edges beautifully while keeping the interior moist. Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest and Serve:
- Allow skewers to rest for 3 minutes before serving with the reserved cowboy butter sauce drizzled over top or served alongside for dipping.
Pin it
My absolute favorite part of this recipe is watching the butter sauce hit the hot grill and create those magical flavor-packed caramelized bits on the chicken. The aroma that rises from the grill when the garlic in the butter hits the heat takes me back to summer evenings when my grandmother would make her special grilled chicken.
Make Ahead Options
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility for preparation. You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, keeping it covered in the refrigerator. This extended marination time actually improves flavor penetration, making the chicken even more delicious. The cowboy butter sauce can also be prepared ahead and stored in an airtight container. Simply reheat gently before using to return it to the proper consistency for basting.
Perfect Pairings
These skewers create a stunning meal when served alongside grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or corn on the cob. For a complete dinner, add a simple grain like fluffy couscous or rice pilaf to absorb the extra butter sauce. The flavor profile works beautifully with both robust red wines and crisp beers, making this an ideal entertaining dish that pairs with nearly any beverage your guests might prefer.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you notice your chicken charring too quickly, move the skewers to a cooler part of the grill or reduce the heat. The butter sauce contains natural sugars that can burn if the temperature is too high. For indoor cooking, be sure to use a well ventilated kitchen as the butter will create some smoke when it hits the hot grill pan. Finally, never reuse the butter sauce that has touched raw chicken. Always set aside a portion specifically for serving before you begin basting.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What is cowboy butter sauce?
Cowboy butter sauce is a rich, flavorful mix made from melted butter, garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, parsley, red pepper flakes, and smoked paprika. It pairs wonderfully with grilled or roasted dishes like chicken skewers.
- → How do you ensure tender chicken skewers?
To keep chicken skewers tender, marinate the chicken pieces with olive oil and seasonings before grilling. Basting with the cowboy butter sauce during cooking also adds moisture and flavor.
- → How do you prevent chicken from sticking to the grill?
Ensure your grill grates are clean and lightly oiled before preheating. Additionally, brushing the chicken skewers with oil before grilling helps prevent sticking.
- → Can I make cowboy butter without red pepper flakes?
Yes, you can omit red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder flavor. Add a pinch of smoked paprika or additional parsley for a flavorful alternative.
- → What sides pair well with grilled chicken skewers?
Grilled chicken skewers go well with sides like roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, a fresh green salad, or crusty bread to soak up the cowboy butter sauce.