Cowboy Butter Chicken Bites
Delicious tender chicken pieces coated in a rich, buttery garlic sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) Optional for added heat.
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat chicken dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Cooking
- Lower heat to medium. Melt butter in the skillet, then stir in garlic. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, parsley, and thyme. Stir to combine.
- Return chicken to skillet and toss until fully coated. Simmer 1–2 minutes.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges.
Notes
These chicken bites can be served over rice or noodles, paired with a salad, or used in wraps. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.